When it comes to exterior decorating and exterior painting, the choice of paint can make all the difference in both appearance and durability. The unpredictable British weather, with its mix of heavy rain, UV radiation, and extreme temperatures, can take a toll on your home’s exterior surfaces. Choosing the best paint types for UK exteriors ensures long-lasting protection, prevents peeling paint, and creates a protective barrier against the elements. This homeowner’s guide explores the different paint types available, their benefits, and how to select the perfect paint for your property.
Understanding Exterior Paint and Its Purpose
Exterior paint is specially formulated to withstand harsh weather conditions, resist UV rays, and provide a protective shield against moisture intrusion and dirt. Unlike interior paint, which focuses on aesthetics and easy cleaning, paints specifically designed for external walls must deliver weatherproof coatings, superior protection, and long-lasting protection for building materials such as brick, render, and wood.
High-quality exterior paints create a paint film that resists cracking, reduces paint failure, and maintains excellent colour retention even under direct sunlight and UV exposure.
Key Considerations Before Choosing Paint
Before beginning the decorating process, consider:
- Surface preparation – Using a stiff brush to clean dirt, algae, and old paint from previously painted or bare surfaces.
- Type of exterior surface – Whether painting masonry surfaces, metal surfaces, or exterior wood.
- Weather conditions – Avoid painting during heavy rain, extreme temperatures, or high humidity.
- Paint finish – Gloss, satin, or matte finishes can completely transform the home’s exterior appearance.
- Low volatile organic compounds (VOCs) – These offer a healthier living environment and are better for the environment.
Popular Types of Exterior Paint in the UK
1. Masonry Paint
Masonry paint is the go-to choice for exterior walls and external walls, providing a protective layer against penetrating damp and rising damp. It’s specially formulated to offer weather resistance and is often breathable masonry paint to allow trapped moisture to escape, reducing the risk of paint failure.
Standard Acrylic Masonry Paint
Standard acrylic masonry paint is specifically designed for versatility and cost-effectiveness. It works well on masonry surfaces and provides decent protection against UV radiation and moisture, making it a solid choice for house painting projects.
Silicone Masonry Paint
For superior protection and long-lasting protection, silicone masonry paint offers a super hydrophobic surface that repels water while remaining breathable. This prevents moisture intrusion and reduces the risk of trapped moisture, even in severe weather conditions.
Emperor Masonry Paint
Emperor masonry paint, or Emperor Paint, is a premium weatherproof coating with excellent colour retention and energy efficiency benefits. Its specialised paints create a protective shield that resists UV exposure, heavy rain, and frost, while helping reduce energy bills.
2. Acrylic Masonry Paint
Acrylic masonry paint is a versatile choice that works on various building materials, providing a smooth finish and resisting cracking over time. This type is ideal for previously painted surfaces and offers a paint finish that’s both decorative and functional.
3. Oil-Based Paints
While less common for large exterior house painting projects due to higher VOC levels, oil-based paints provide a durable protective barrier on metal surfaces and exterior wood. They are particularly effective for weatherproof coatings on doors, windows, and trim, offering long-lasting protection against UV rays and extreme temperatures.
4. Specialised Paints
Some paints specifically designed for certain issues can completely transform your home’s exterior. For example:
- Weatherproof coatings for harsh weather conditions
- Anti-mould paints for areas prone to penetrating damp
- Heat-reflective coatings to enhance energy efficiency and lower energy bills
Matching Paint to Different Exterior Surfaces
Exterior Masonry
Choose breathable masonry paint or silicone masonry paint to protect against penetrating damp while allowing moisture to escape. For premium performance, Emperor masonry paint offers superior protection against the unpredictable British weather.
Exterior Wood
Exterior woodwork requires flexible paints that prevent cracking. Oil-based paints or specialised paints offer a protective barrier and excellent colour retention, even under direct sunlight.
Metal Surfaces
For metal surfaces, opt for corrosion-resistant primers followed by oil-based paints or specialised weatherproof coatings.
Common Causes of Paint Failure
Even the best paint can fail without proper surface preparation. Issues like trapped moisture, peeling paint, and poor adhesion often result from:
- Painting during heavy rain or extreme temperatures
- Failing to remove dirt, moss, and old paint with a stiff brush
- Using interior paint on external walls
- Skipping primer on bare surfaces
How Much Paint Do You Need?
Estimating how much paint is essential to avoid running out mid-job. Coverage varies by paint quality, paint finish, and surface type. Generally, three coats provide long-lasting protection, especially on porous masonry surfaces.
Tips for a Long-Lasting Exterior Paint Job
- Always check the weather forecast to avoid heavy rain during application.
- Use high-quality, low-volatile organic compounds paints for a healthier living environment.
- Apply at least three coats for superior protection.
- Maintain your painted surfaces by cleaning them annually and touching up any chips or cracks.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right paint for your home’s exterior is about balancing paint quality, weather resistance, and excellent colour retention. Whether you opt for acrylic masonry paint, silicone masonry paint, or premium Emperor masonry paint, investing in paints specifically designed for the unpredictable British weather will ensure long-lasting protection and a stunning finish. With the correct decorating process, surface preparation, and quality materials from eco-friendly painters and decorators, your exterior decorating project can offer superior protection and beauty for years to come.