Exterior, masonry and woodwork paint

• Paint - the essential guide
• Choosing the right type of paint
• Floor paint
• Water-based or oil-based paints
• Exterior, masonry and woodwork paint
• Eco-friendly paints
• Paint glossary
• Paint directory

Specialist masonry and exterior woodwork paints are now available in many of the sophisticated colours offered for interiors. For example, the Weathershield range of satin and gloss exterior paints. Dulux features innovative shades such as Wild Berries and Wild Roses. When choosing colours for exterior surfaces, consider the style of the brickwork or masonry of your home along with the colours used on nearby buildings, so as to pick colours that are sympathetic to these surroundings. Colours for fences and sheds should be selected with the same criteria in mind. from

Technical advancements are constantly being made to improve the life span, durability, wear and performance of exterior paints. Sandtex's Microseal technology gives its paints “two-way” breathability where moisture and air can move out of the home, but rain and wetness cannot penetrate from outside.

Masonry paints come in a wide variety of finishes, from textured to ultra-smooth. Opt for a texture if you need to disguise fine surface cracks. If you favour traditional finishes, then consider limewash, which is available from specialists such as Francesca's Lime Wash. The beauty of this paint is that it will mellow and weather with time. However, do check with the supplier first to ensure that the surface is suitable for this finish. Scottish company Anta can make limewash to order.

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