DIY or seeking a professional, read on.
If you are unsure if your house paint has degraded or if your house exterior needs painting then it may be worth clicking here first as this will help you decide if it really needs doing. If it is a colour change you're after or you've decided its time, then read on for this step by step painters and decorators guide.
Preparation for decorating exteriors & pebbledash walls
If there is any mould, mildew or algae then firstly apply a fungicidal wash, if not the chances are these living organisms could grow back through the new paint, follow the manufacturers instructions. Next, fill any cracks or holes with a quality exterior filler and try and emulate the shape of the pebbledash with rubber gloves and fingers, the paint will hide any minor errors. If the paintwork is flaking from UV damage and is loose then we suggest applying a stabiliser primer, this will bond together and flaking areas and prime in readiness for top coats. Finally remove any weeds, or ivy that may be growing up against the walls and a quick good brush over to remove any cobwebs.
Masking before painting
We always suggest using decorators polythene and masking tape to cover windows, facia boards, guttering etc. protecting them from new paint or even micro paint splatters and droplets on glass etc.
Applying masonry paint to pebbledash walls
Firstly, check the weather forecast, most masonry paints are rain safe within two-three hours in moderate conditions, check the manufacturers advice on the tin, but at all cost avoid rain spells when painting exterior walls. Getting an even coverage of paint onto such an uneven surface is a challenge. Pebbledash closely resembles a mountain range with peaks and valleys. If you decide to use a traditional brush and roller method to apply paint then ensure you have a good 4 inch masonry brush that holds a good measure of paint and use in conjunction with a long nap roller, a nap of 1-1.5 inch should do. Its a slow process and may require two coats for best coverage, be patient.
How do professional decorators paint pebbledash?
Technology in this trade is advancing at a rapid rate, and many professional painters and decorators such as ourselves have invested in equipment and training for Airless Paint Spraying, which is perfectly suited to painting pebbledash exterior walls. Click play on the video below for a quick demonstration.
To learn more about Airless Paint Spraying, click here