Recommended tools & products

• 18V Nexxforce Cordless Pressure Cleaner – for faster, more effective surface cleaning before painting
• 3-in-1 Combination Ladder – flexible reach for different heights and angles
• Aluminium Folding Work Platform – 50 cm Height – 7.8 kg – stable working position for safer, more controlled painting
• 18V Cordless Paint Sprayer – quick, even coverage on large exterior surfaces
• Paint Roller – 520ml Reservoir – smooth painting with fewer refills

Before you start: choose the right paint

For most exterior walls (brick, stone, cement block work, render), you’ll need a masonry paint designed for outdoor use. A good masonry paint should help prevent water absorption while remaining breathable, so water vapour can escape from the wall.

Step 1: Check the weather conditions

Always paint in mild, dry weather. Avoid rain, strong wind, or direct sunlight. Many exterior paints require temperatures above 5°C to dry properly. Avoid painting in direct sunlight when temperatures exceed 25°C, as paint can dry too quickly and lead to uneven results.

Plan for a dry period where you can apply two coats without risk of rain. Drying times are usually based on 20°C: the colder it is, the longer paint will take to dry and recoat.

Step 2: Preparation (the most important step)

Preparation is the single most important part of any exterior painting project. Without it, you risk poor adhesion, peeling paint, and an uneven finish.

Remove loose paint & repair defects

• Scrape off any flaking or peeling paint until the surface is sound
• Sand rough edges smooth
• Fill holes and cracks with an exterior-grade filler using a filling knife
• Remove loose debris from cracks/holes before filling to ensure proper bonding
• Once dry, sand the filler flush for a smooth finish

Protect nearby surfaces

Cover floors and nearby areas with a dust sheet or drop cloth. Use masking tape around windows, doors, and exterior trim to keep edges clean.

Step 3: Clean the exterior wall

Cleaning exterior walls is essential for paint adhesion and long-term durability. It’s best done in two stages:

Stage 1: Remove surface dirt

Start by removing heavy dirt using a stiff brush, hose pipe, or a pressure cleaner on a low setting. If using a pressure washer, keep the pressure low to avoid damaging the wall surface.

For a faster and deeper clean, use a pressure cleaner like the 18V Nexxforce Cordless Pressure Cleaner. Allow the wall to dry completely before continuing.

Stage 2: Treat algae, mildew & fungal growth

After removing dirt, apply an anti-fungicidal masonry cleaner to kill organic growth such as algae and mildew. This reduces the risk of fungal growth blooming underneath the paint film and causing peeling later. Follow the cleaner manufacturer’s instructions and required dwell time.

Step 4: Apply primer (if necessary)

Bare surfaces that have not previously been painted (brick, stone, render) should be primed before painting. Priming reduces paint absorption and helps prevent a patchy finish. It also improves adhesion for longer-term performance.

Primer is recommended when:

• Painting over a dark colour
• Working with porous materials (e.g., brick, stone, render)
• Covering repaired areas or bare patches

In some cases, you can create a “mist coat” by diluting the first coat of masonry paint (only) with a small amount of water (for example around 10%), but only if the surface is completely sound and suitable for this approach.

Step 5: Paint the exterior wall

Only once the wall is clean, dry, and sound should you begin painting. Damp within the wall can impact adhesion, so make sure the substrate is fully dry.

Cut in first

Start by cutting in around edges, corners, windows, doors, and trim with a brush to create clean lines.

Choose the right roller (important for coverage)

On smooth surfaces, use a short nap roller for a finer finish. On textured surfaces, use a longer nap roller to ensure even, thorough coverage. Rough textures (like pebbledash) can reduce coverage, so check the paint manufacturer’s instructions.

Option A: Paint with a roller

A roller is ideal for controlled application and many wall types. For longer uninterrupted painting, consider a reservoir roller like the Paint Roller – 520ml Reservoir. Work in sections from top to bottom to avoid drips, and apply paint in consistent strokes.

Option B: Paint with a sprayer

For large exterior walls, a sprayer can be faster and deliver a very even finish. The 18V Cordless Paint Sprayer helps apply paint quickly with consistent coverage.

• Spray in steady, overlapping passes
• Keep a consistent distance from the wall
• Maintain a smooth pace to avoid drips and uneven spots

Drying and recoating

Allow the first coat to dry completely before applying the second coat. Many water-based masonry paints may feel touch dry within 1–2 hours, but the recoat time is often longer. Always follow the manufacturer’s recoat guidance.

Two coats are usually enough for good coverage, but apply a third coat if you do not achieve the desired finish. For the best final appearance, keep your final brush strokes in the same direction, and never go back over paint that has already started to dry.

Step 6: Final inspection

Remove painter’s tape carefully and inspect the wall for missed spots, drips, or thin areas. Touch up where needed.

Tips for a professional finish

• Work in sections and keep a wet edge to avoid lap marks
• Don’t overload your roller or apply paint too thickly
• Keep strokes consistent and controlled
• Avoid painting in direct sun or when rain is likely
• Use stable access equipment for safer, cleaner results

For safer working at height and more control, use a sturdy ladder such as the 3-in-1 Combination Ladder or a stable platform like the Aluminium Folding Work Platform.