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:
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:
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
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:
Damage Repair
Ensure you repair any damage to the facade before proceeding. Here are some common problems and how to address them:
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:
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:
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:
Common Mistakes
To achieve a good result, avoid these mistakes:
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:
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
Cleaning
Minor Repairs
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
Execution
Aftercare
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!
