How to Paint a Smooth Exterior Wall

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Woodie's DIY will show you how to paint a smooth exterior wall. In this video we are working on a garden wall but the same method can be applied to any smooth exterior wall.

How to do it

Step 1

Wash down previously painted surfaces with a detergent solution to remove dirt, grease, etc. Rinse off with clean water and allow to dry. Use a wire brush or paint scraper to scrape back to a firm edge any areas of poorly adhering or defective coatings and rub down thoroughly to 'key and feather' broken edges of existing coatings.

Step 2

If necessary fill in any cracks or holes with a suitable exterior filler.

Step 3

Treat any mould with a Fungicidal Treatment

Step 4

If you have a chalky surface or a very porous surface use a stabilising solution to seal and stabilise before painting to help masonry paint adhere well.

Step 5

Lay down dust sheets under the area you will be painting to avoid any paint splatter staining the ground and cover any plants beside the wall. If painting a house wall, protect any doors and windows with masking tape and dust sheets or newspapers.

Do not apply paint in wet conditions or if rain is likely before the product dries. Do not apply in temperatures below 10°C or in high humidity. Do not apply in direct sunlight. Read the instructions carefully

Step 6

You can use a brush or roller when painting smooth masonry. Specially designed masonry brushes and rollers hold more paint and will make the job easier.

Step 7

If the wall has never been painted before, water down the first coat so it acts like a primer. The manufacturer’s instructions will tell you how much water should be added to the paint. On previously painted walls there is no need to dilute the first coat.

Step 8

Using a brush, cut in with the paint around all the edges on the wall e.g. capping stones, pillars. If it’s a house cut in around the windows and doors first. Start at the top and work your way down.

Step 9

Use a roller to paint the rest of the wall. Start at the bottom and roll upwards. Paint the wall in sections and only move on to the next section when you are satisfied that the section you are working on is properly painted.

Step 10

The normal finishing process is two full coats of masonry paint, but on previously painted surfaces in good condition, where similar colours are used, one coat may be sufficient.