Exterior Paints

About Exterior Paints

Paint comes under the category of speciality products in New Zealand. People choose a paint brand and stick to its different products for different painting needs. Unfortunately, the less expensive, economical paint that remains within the budget can start looking awful after a few years of harsh weather conditions.  

It is essential to use the paint for its intended purpose in New Zealand. Otherwise, people will use concrete floor paints as interior paints, making it a total mess. Exterior paints can change the look of an entire house from the outside, whether they are applied as a DIY project or done by a professional.

This guide is developed to assist buyers in making informed and correct exterior paint purchase decisions in New Zealand. It describes different things to consider when it comes to exterior paints.

Guide To Choosing The Right Exterior Paint 

It only takes motivation and fundamental knowledge of paints for DIY painting the exterior of a house. However, it is also essential to understand the available options in New Zealand when it comes to paints. Exterior paints are of two types: oil-based and latex. 

Oil-based paints are an old-school favourite for home exteriors. They deliver a durable, water-resistant finish and are often used by professionals who know how to handle them. Also, it is imperative to use only oil-based exterior paints if a house is already painted with this type. 

On the other hand, latex exterior paints are easier to work with and offer the same durability as oil-based paints without the headache. In addition, latex paints are easy to apply and even easier to clean up; all it takes is water and a washcloth to clean up the mess. 

Furthermore, when buying exterior paints in New Zealand, it is always advisable to choose quality over quantity. Don't go for the colours that are only pleasing to the eye but lose when it comes to durability. Keep in mind that the goal is to create a façade that can withstand the brutal blows of weather. 

Just remember to never put a coat of latex on top of oil paint because it'll peel off as soon as it's dry. 

Selecting Exterior Paint For Different Parts Of A Home

Whether the plan is to paint the whole house or do some touch-ups, choosing the right exterior paint for the right surface can be daunting. Therefore, it is necessary to know few things about the usage of exterior paints on different surfaces. 

For Fences

Wooden fences or any wood surface, including exterior railings, arbours, and gazebos, are all included in the same category in New Zealand and painted by one type of paint. Solid fences paints generally last longer on these surfaces and have more vibrant shades. However, they are challenging to renew and will inevitably peel. 

On the other hand, semi-transparent oil stains won't be as durable and lasting, but they won't peel with the proper painting technique. Furthermore, once they start to fade, they are easier to recoat using spray paint.

For Floors 

When it comes to exterior wood floors or concrete floor paint in New Zealand, the requirements of paint change because they are exposed to rain, sun, and all sorts of beating from the weather. Not to mention the foot traffic. All of this damages the porch paint. Moreover, since paint decreases the drying, the moisture stays longer in the wood, compounding the damages to the paint and the wood. 

Therefore, a specifically designed paint such as enamel with more resin content for floor and porches is the only way to withstand the relentless weather. 

Moreover, keep in mind that these are glossy paints and can be slippery. Therefore, it is wise to layer it with gritty additives to add traction to it. 

Concrete, Concrete Block, Stucco, And Brick Walls

In New Zealand, concrete, stucco, and brick walls are pretty much alike when it comes to absorbing the paint. However, the moisture when it gets inside the surface heavily damages the surfaces and ultimately causes the paint to peel. 

Therefore, using full acrylic paints as cement paint is the right thing to do in this case. In addition, they can breathe, which means they can vapour out moisture from the surface and restrict it from damaging the paint. 

For Siding

To firmly hold the exterior paints, the siding needs to be coated with acrylic masonry primer along with two coats of acrylic paint. 

For Brick

To paint brick, concrete, stucco, or another exterior masonry in New Zealand it is crucial to apply a masonry primer.  This primer, when followed by an equally effective paint with elastomeric ingredients, works wonders. When the brick expands or contracts, the colour, due to its elastomeric elements, flexes with it rather than going brittle after some time. 

For Porches And Patios

For exterior surfaces that encounter lots of walking and traffic, highly durable paint is required. In addition, there are specifically designed paints for decks, porches, and patios. Generally, these special paints consist of oil-based and water-based variants. In comparison, oil-based metal paints are more durable on metal surfaces.

Colour/ Finish Of The Paint

When shopping for exterior paints in New Zealand, there are certain things to keep in mind. One of them is the colour or finish of the paint. In addition, there are numerous types of stains available, and one can go for the ones that match their preferences. 

Gloss

Gloss paint is one of the best options in New Zealand in the case of exterior colours. They are easy to clean, scuff resistant, and a good option for frequently used places like doors jambs, window casings, etc. However, since they are more reflective, they tend to highlight the flaws and cracks enormously. Therefore, if the doors or walls are not in the best condition, it is better not to use gloss paints. 

Semi-Gloss

Semi-gloss is comparatively less reflective and less shiny. However, due to their less reflective nature, they look good in areas that are more exposed. In addition, semi-gloss is proved to be more durable and lasting than high gloss. 

Satin

Satin paint, also known as low-lustre paint, comes with easy cleaning. Moreover, it is aesthetically pleasing to exterior areas made up of wood or cement and is in good condition. 

Flat

Flat or matte paint consists of zero to no lustre that allows it to cover up any cracks, flaws, or imperfections on the surface. Therefore, it is an excellent choice for surfaces that are inked, scratched, or dented. 

Other Things To Consider 

After purchasing the right paint for the exteriors, one cannot just go at it. For the paint to look well and stay well on the wall, it needs priming.

The process of priming in New Zealand involves preparing the surface for the paint. The primer or undercoat offers durability and longevity to the paint. Primer for exteriors also protects against erosion, mildew, and cracking. 

If you need assistance to find exterior paints for your home or office, ArchiPro provides a connection to the various professionals in New Zealand, ready to assist with all requirements and questions. Simply click "Contact supplier" on the product's page, or visit the supplier's website directly from the product's page.