Painting your facade protects your house against weather conditions and gives it a fresh appearance. With a good approach, the paint layer can last for up to 10 years. Here is an overview of what you need to do:
- Inspect the facade for cracks, damp spots, loose material, algae, and moss.
- Gather materials such as brushes, rollers, masking tape, a high-pressure cleaner, and repair supplies.
- Choose the right time: paint when temperatures are between 10-25°C, with little wind and no rain.
- Clean and repair the facade thoroughly and ensure it is completely dry.
- Apply a primer that matches the type of facade, such as brick or concrete.
- Paint in layers with suitable paint, such as silicone or acrylic paint, for a durable result.
Important: Regularly check the facade and perform minor maintenance to extend the lifespan of the paintwork. For large projects, you can hire a professional, like Bricknest, for a complete approach.
By following these steps, you ensure a smooth and long-lasting result.
Preparing for Painting
Wall Inspection
Pay attention to the following points:
- Cracks and fissures: Carefully look for visible damage in the masonry and joints.
- Damp spots: Watch for dark spots or discolorations that could indicate moisture issues.
- Loose material: Check for peeling plaster or paint.
- Algae and moss growth: Especially check the north side of the facade for green or black deposits.
Take photos of potential problem areas and note where repairs are needed. Ensure you gather all necessary tools and materials after the inspection.
Required Tools and Materials
| Category | What you need |
|---|---|
| Protection | Safety glasses, work gloves, dust mask, coveralls |
| Cleaning | High-pressure cleaner, sandpaper (P80-P120), wire brush |
| Repair | Mortar, crack repair filler, sealant for seams |
| Painting | Brushes (various sizes), rollers, paint trays, masking tape |
| Access | Scaffold or ladder with stabilizer |
Ideal Weather Conditions
- Temperature: Ideally between 10°C and 25°C.
- Humidity: No higher than 85%.
- Wind: Avoid painting when the wind speed is 4 or more.
- Sunlight: Prefer not to work in direct sunlight.
- Weather Forecast: Check the weather for at least 48 hours ahead.
The best time to paint is in spring (April-May) or late summer (September-October). During these periods, the weather in the Netherlands is often more stable for painting.
Facade Preparation
Surface Cleaning
Start with a thorough cleaning of the facade. Use a high-pressure cleaner and adjust the pressure based on the wall: 40–60 bar for fragile surfaces and up to 120 bar for sturdier walls. Keep the nozzle about 30 cm from the wall.
For stubborn dirt, you can follow these steps:
- Use a pH-neutral cleaning agent.
- Let the product work for 15–20 minutes.
- Rinse the facade thoroughly afterward.
- Let the facade dry for at least 48 hours.
Damage Repair
Ensure you repair any damage to the facade before proceeding. Here are some common problems and how to address them:
- Cracks: Remove loose material, fill deep cracks with suitable filler, and smooth with sandpaper (grit P120).
- Mortar joints: Remove damaged joints to a depth of 2 cm and refill with mortar. Let it cure for 24 hours.
- Sealant work: Remove old sealant around frames and apply a new, elastic sealant. Smooth the sealant with soapy water.
After repairs, always check for moisture issues.
Moisture Control
Before proceeding, it is important to check the facade for moisture issues. Use a moisture meter to measure the moisture level. For mineral surfaces, it should not exceed 4%.
| Moisture Problem | Approach | Waiting Time |
|---|---|---|
| Rising damp | Inject damp-proof agents | 14 days |
| Leakage | Repair gutters/downspouts | Until completely dry |
| Condensation | Improve ventilation | 7–10 days |
Ensure all repairs are fully cured before applying primer or paint.
Primer Application
After a thorough facade preparation, using the right primer is crucial for good adhesion and protection.
Primer Selection
The choice of the right primer depends on the type of facade. Here are some recommendations:
| Facade Type | Recommended Primer | Properties |
|---|---|---|
| Brick | Water-based siloxane primer | Breathable and moisture-resistant |
| Concrete | Acrylic-based deep-penetrating primer | Strengthens porous surfaces |
| Plaster | Fixative primer | Prevents absorption and powdering |
| Painted facade | Adhesion primer | Provides extra adhesion on old paint layers |
Applying Primer
For optimal primer application, follow these steps:
-
Preparation of the primer
Stir the primer thoroughly and dilute if necessary according to the product specifications. -
Protect the area
Cover windows, doors, and other surfaces not to be treated with painting tape and masking film. -
Application
- Start at the top of the facade and work downwards.
- Use a blocking brush of 10-15 cm wide for corners and edges.
- For large surfaces, use a paint roller with 12-14 mm nap.
- Work in bands about 70 cm wide.
- Ensure an even layer thickness of 100-150 microns wet.
Drying Time
The drying time of the primer varies depending on the weather conditions. Here are some guidelines:
| Weather Conditions | Minimum Drying Time | Repaintable After |
|---|---|---|
| 20°C, 65% RH | 2-3 hours | 12 hours |
| 10°C, 80% RH | 4-6 hours | 24 hours |
| 5°C, 85% RH | 8-10 hours | 36 hours |
Note:
- Do not apply primer at temperatures below 5°C or above 25°C.
- Avoid direct sunlight during drying.
- Protect the surface if rain is expected within 24 hours of application.
- Ensure the primer is completely dry by lightly running your finger over the surface; it should not feel sticky.
Ready with the primer? Proceed with the painting methods for the next step.
Painting Methods
After careful primer application, it's time to choose the right paint and application method. This is important for a long-lasting and beautiful result.
Paint Selection
The type of paint you choose plays a big role in the durability and appearance of your paintwork. Here are some options:
| Paint Type | Application | Properties | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Silicone resin-based | Mineral surfaces | Breathable and water-repellent | 8–10 years |
| Acrylic dispersion | Painted facades | Elastic and UV-resistant | 6–8 years |
| Mineral paint | Lime plaster, concrete | Very matte with a natural look | 5–7 years |
| Hybrid facade paint | Universal | Combines advantages of silicone and acrylic | 7–9 years |
Choose based on the surface and desired properties.
Application Methods
The way you apply the paint is just as important as the paint itself. Choose the method that best suits your project:
- Brush: Start with a flat brush of 50–70 mm for corners and window frames. Work in vertical bands for a sleek result.
- Roller: For rough surfaces, use a roller with a nap height of 14–18 mm. Work in bands up to 60 cm wide and roll wet-on-wet in a W-pattern to avoid stripes.
- Airless spraying: Set the working pressure to 150–180 bar and use a spray tip of 0.38–0.43 mm. Maintain a spray angle of 40–50 degrees and work at a distance of 25–30 cm for even coverage.
Common Mistakes
To achieve a good result, avoid these mistakes:
- Incorrect layer thickness: Too thick layers cause runs, while too thin layers do not cover well. Maintain a wet layer thickness of 200–250 microns.
- Unsuitable weather conditions: Avoid painting in:
- Temperatures below 8 °C or above 25 °C
- Relative humidity above 85%
- Direct sunlight
- Wind speed above 3 Beaufort
- Incorrect planning: Begin on the shaded side of the building and work with the sun to prevent the paint from drying too quickly.
- Incorrect thinning: Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Too much thinning weakens the paint layer, while too little can cause application problems.
- Poor ventilation: Ensure sufficient air circulation, especially in inside corners and under overhangs, for the paint to dry well.
With the right paint, technique, and attention to detail, you ensure a smooth and durable final result.
Final Steps and Maintenance
After carefully applying the painting methods, it's time to tackle the finishing and maintenance of the facade.
Final Coat
The final coat requires precision for an even finish. Ensure you apply the paint in one fluid motion to avoid visible transitions. Keep in mind:
- Work according to the same method and apply the paint from top to bottom in vertical bands for consistent layer thickness (200-250 microns).
- Avoid interruptions within a single facade to maintain a uniform appearance.
Paint Protection
Just like during preparation and priming, precision is also important here. Specific measures must be taken during the curing process:
| Phase | Duration | Measures |
|---|---|---|
| Surface dry | 2-4 hours | Avoid direct contact and dust formation. |
| Repaintable | 12-24 hours | Protect against rain and moisture. |
| Fully cured | 7-14 days | Avoid mechanical stress. |
Place warning signs or tape at least 1 meter away from the facade to prevent damage. In apartments or public buildings, it's helpful to inform residents or users about the drying times.
Regular Maintenance
To keep the facade well-protected over time, regular inspection and cleaning are important.
Inspection
- Inspect the facade twice a year, preferably in the spring and fall.
- Look for small cracks, discolorations, and damp spots.
- Pay extra attention to critical points such as frame connections.
Cleaning
- Wash the facade annually with lukewarm water and a pH-neutral soap.
- Use a soft brush or sponge to remove dirt.
- Avoid using high-pressure cleaners, as they can damage the paint layer.
- Work from bottom to top to prevent streaks.
Minor Repairs
- Repair damages immediately to prevent further issues.
- Use the same paint as the original layer for a consistent result.
- Keep important paint information like type, color code, and batch number.
- Maintain a log of repairs carried out for future maintenance.
Following these guidelines keeps the facade in top condition. In case of doubt about maintenance or repairs, it's best to consult a specialist to assess the facade's state.
Summary
Painting a facade requires a careful approach. Here is an overview of the key steps needed to achieve a long-lasting result.
Preparation and Inspection
- Thoroughly check and prepare the facade as discussed earlier.
- Use professional tools and high-quality materials.
- Preferably work at suitable temperatures between 10–25 °C.
Execution
- Thoroughly clean and repair the surface before starting.
- Correctly apply primer and paint for a strong base.
- Work in multiple layers for a durable result.
Aftercare
- Allow the paint to fully cure for 7–14 days.
- Inspect the facade twice a year.
- Regularly perform preventative maintenance.
If you prefer to hire an expert, Bricknest offers complete renovations starting from €6,000. Their craftsmanship guarantees a high-quality final result.
Good painting significantly extends the lifespan of your facade. Whether you tackle it yourself or hire a professional, using good materials and precise execution are indispensable for long-lasting protection of your facade. Start today with the right approach!
