Living in the Waikato, our homes have to endure a unique set of challenges. We get plenty of rain and humidity, but also long days of strong, direct sun. When it comes to
protecting your home's exterior, the paint you choose is your most important shield. This guide will help you select the perfect paint to keep your home looking great for years to come.
The Foundation: Why Acrylic Paint is King
For almost any home in our region, a 100% acrylic
latex paint is the superior choice. The main reason is flexibility. As temperatures change throughout the day and the seasons, your home's cladding expands and contracts slightly. Acrylic paint
is able to stretch and shrink along with it, which prevents the cracking and flaking you often see with older, more brittle paints.
The Look and Feel: Choosing the Right Finish
The "sheen" of your paint affects both its appearance and how tough it is. Here's a simple breakdown: Low-Sheen or Satin: This is the most popular choice for
exterior walls. It has a subtle gloss that's easy to clean but is also great at hiding minor imperfections
on a large surface.
Semi-Gloss or Gloss: This is perfect for your trim, windowsills, and doors. It creates a hard, durable surface that can handle more wear and tear, and it provides a lovely contrast to the walls.
Armour: Essential Protective Features
A pretty colour won't last long without the right protection built in. Given our climate, these two features are non-negotiable:
UV Protection: That harsh Kiwi sun can fade paint colours in just a few seasons.
Always look for top-quality paints with UV inhibitors, think of it as sunscreen for your house.
Mould Inhibitors: With our region's humidity, mould and mildew are a constant threat. Paint with built-in mould inhibitors is an absolute necessity to keep your walls looking clean and fresh.
The Final, Crucial Step: A Quality Primer
You wouldn't build a house on a shaky foundation, and the same goes for painting. No matter how advanced your top coat is, it needs the right base to stick to.
quality exterior primer seals the surface and gives the paint a
solid foundation to bond with. It's a critical step that
no reputable painter
would ever dream of skipping. Choosing the right paint is a big decision. By focusing on these key features, you can ensure a beautiful result that truly protects your investment. For expert advice and a flawless application on your next project, the professionals at Tomar Contracting are always happy to help.
Top comments (0)