Refurb & Restore Issue 42 2025 | Page 22

TOP TIPS FOR PAINTING THE EXTERIOR OF YOUR HISTORIC HOME

The first critical step in painting the exterior of your property is selecting the right paint and primer
Many homeowners and professionals are turning to Earthborn’ s breathable Silicate Masonry Paint, specially formulated for historic properties and porous materials such as stone, masonry, cob, concrete, pebbledash, plaster, and lime render. When used with their Silicate Primer, a highly breathable and permanent bond is formed.
Preparation is crucial for any painting project. Begin by removing any existing flaking or peeling paint and addressing any damage with suitable materials. A high-pressure jet wash can help identify unstable surfaces while cleaning the area thoroughly for preparation.
Next, pay attention to weather conditions before beginning your work. Ideally, temperatures should remain above 8 ° C, even overnight, with no rain forecasted for a few days to ensure proper curing of the paint.
Earthborn outlines essential steps for preparing to paint over a lime-based surface:
3 | Check surface stability
Ensure the surface is stable and free from flaky or powdery sections before painting.
4 | Adhere to instructions
Follow the manufacturer’ s application guidelines for optimal results. display richer, more saturated colours.
Location
Is your chosen colour common in your area? Observing surrounding homes can provide inspiration and foster cohesion within the community.
1 | Choose a breathable finish
This keeps the surface permeable, preventing moisture build-up beneath the paint.
2 | Allow curing time
Lime render should be fully cured before application; typically, allow one month for every 5mm of thickness, extending this time in cooler conditions.
Your colour choice significantly impacts the character and history of your older property. Consider the following factors:
Property age
Historical homes from various eras often feature characteristic colour palettes. Georgian homes might showcase softer pastels, while Edwardian properties could
Orientation
Consider which direction your property faces. North-facing homes may benefit from warmer tones, while south-facing ones can effectively handle cooler shades without losing vibrancy.
Earthborn’ s Silicate Masonry Paint is available in 48 signature shades designed to look timeless on
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