Best Practices for Winter-Ready Exterior Painting

Winter introduces some specific challenges for outdoor painting, including low temperatures and erratic weather. However, with thoughtful preparation and careful execution, it’s entirely possible to complete an exterior paint job that resists the usual pitfalls of winter. In the following blog, we’ll explore our top tips for any winter paint job.

Pick the right time: When it comes to winter painting, timing is everything. Depending on your paint formulation, it’s usually crucial to monitor the weather forecast closely and plan your painting project during a window of mild weather. You may need to look for a period with the least chance of precipitation and temperatures consistently within the paint’s recommended application range. Remember, it’s not just daytime temperatures that matter; night-time lows should also stay above the minimum required temperature to ensure proper curing.

However, with Sandtex Trade 365 All Weather masonry paint, you can paint in any condition, rain or shine. Crafted with high-performance Pliolite resins, Sandtex 365 All Weather masonry paint offers up to 20 years of protection and is designed for application in temperatures as low as -10 degrees Celsius. It becomes shower resistant merely 20 minutes after application, ensuring durability in adverse weather conditions.

Preparation is key, especially in winter: Cold weather exacerbates problems like moisture retention and ice formation, making surface preparation even more important than usual. Before beginning your paint job, ensure the surface is dry, clean, and free of ice or frost. Remove any mould or fungal growth as these can compromise the paint’s adhesion.

Choose the right formula: During winter, look for paints that are quick-dry, or specifically made to be applied in cooler temperatures. Sandtex Trade X-treme X-posure is another excellent option for winter paint jobs. It offers unparalleled protection against the elements, delivering up to 20 years of durability, superior dirt resistance, and exceptional adhesion for the utmost weather defense. This water-based, smooth masonry paint is touch dry in only 30 minutes, ensuring quick and efficient application.

Employ the right techniques: When painting in colder weather, the technique and tools matter. Thick coats of paint take longer to dry and are more prone to issues in cold weather. Instead, apply thin coats, repeating as necessary and allowing enough time for each layer to dry in between. Opt for brushes and rollers that will be suitable for the paint type and temperature conditions, as cold weather can affect how paint flows and covers. Talk to your local Sandtex stockist for more guidance on this, and any other questions you may have.

Painting the exterior of a home in winter comes with its challenges, but a beautiful, lasting outcome is achievable with the correct strategy. Using the tips above will guarantee that your winter paint job withstands the season’s challenges, maintaining the beauty of your home throughout even the chilliest times.Call into your nearest Sandtex stockist for all the products you need for your next exterior project!