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The right paint for the job
Sandtex masonry paint comes in two kinds of finishes. Ultra Smooth Masonry paint which is ideal for large surface areas and is easy to apply. We also offer Fine Textured paint which is ideal for highly exposed areas where you might want a little bit more added durability. Fine Textured contains small particles which can help cover fine hairline cracks. Both paints offer 15 Year Guaranteed Protection providing that they have been applied in the correct manner.
One of the unique features of Sandtex paints is the use of Microseal technology. This enables the paint to stay cleaner for longer than most other masonry paints with added breathability which also aids with the durability of the product. We recommend applying two coats of either of the aforementioned paints.
Starting at the top, paint in sections working from right to left or left to right. Work your way across the house, first the top, then the middle and finally the lower part. Ensure where possible you maintain a wet edge so you don’t have stripes or blocks appearing on the wall where the paint has dried unevenly.
Follow the sun, this will ensure that the surfaces are free from dew and in warm conditions, do not paint in direct sunlight as this can lead to blistering whilst drying.
Drain pipes – to paint behind pipes without getting paint on walls use a piece of cardboard as a mask.
When painting externally the temperature must be 8°c or above to ensure the paint will dry effectively – be aware when painting late in the day that the temperature does not become too cold or damp as this will affect the end results and could cause problems longer-term.
Top Tip
Keep small children and pets away from the decorating area
Selecting the right colour
Selecting the right colour
As with all decorating projects, the choice of colour or colours are very important to the end result. This is no more important than for exterior painting as your handy work is on display for all to see. When selecting colours for Masonry Paint we recommend the customer buys a tester pot to try or look at the manufacturers colour cards and website for inspiration before investing in the full project. The colours will be influenced by the daylight and position of the property due to the natural light available. Be aware of the effect of adjacent colour influences such as a green grass lawn.
To enable colour choices the testers can be applied onto a piece of card and positioned at different points on the property. The landscape and indeed geology of an area traditionally can be part of the colours that are often used for colour influence such as Suffolk Pink due to the natural pink clay of the area.
Top Tip
When considering choosing colours, consider and leave the sample in position for at least for 24 hours before purchasing your paint.
How much paint do you need?
Having enough paint to complete the job sounds obvious yet getting this wrong results in a trip back to the store for another tin which can be time consuming plus stopping part way across a wall results in a ‘wet edge line’ that can be unattractive. So ensure that you have plenty of paint to complete the task.
Painting edge to edge will ensure an even paint application.
Painting your house
To work out how much paint you will need to paint your house, follow this simple calculation:
Measure the length of each surface and multiply by the height.
This will give you the square metre area (e.g. a wall which measures 5 metres long and 3 metres high will give you a wall surface area of 15 square metres).
For doors and windows do the same then subtract this area from the total wall to achieve total square metres to be painted. The information on the back of the can will advise of the square metres per litre coverage, take into account that you may require a second coat.
Adding value to your home
Most estate agents will stress the all-important ‘Curb Appeal’ that painting the exterior or even your exterior windows and doors can bring to your home. They say it is the first 15 seconds when a prospective buyer approaches your home that can make or break your potential sale.
The benefit of investing in the exterior part of your home is not only to ensure you create a more attractive looking façade but to add real value to your property and enable it to compete with other homes in your area. When thinking of selling your home It is key to consider:
Clearing any garden clutter
Paint fences or gates
Trim or prune unsightly trees or bushes
Paint the masonry surface to provide a clean fresh image
Ensure not only walls are painted but soffits, windows and in particular front doors as well
Select neutral non aggressive colours, consider updating outdoor furniture, does the doorbell / exterior light work? This is a good indicator the interior is in a good state of repair.
Add some ‘WOW’ pot plants or neat shrubs to compliment your Sandtex update.
These will add up to a WOW Kerb Appeal and add instant value to your home.
Top Tip
Use an extension pole to extend reach.
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