Introduction
Exterior house painting is one of the most important maintenance jobs on a New Zealand home. The country's unique combination of high UV exposure, heavy rainfall, and strong winds means that exterior paint can deteriorate quickly if not properly maintained. In fact, the Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation (BCITO) recommends that homeowners repaint their exteriors every 10-15 years to prevent damage and maintain the overall integrity of the building. However, this timeframe can vary significantly depending on the region, with coastal areas in Northland and Auckland requiring more frequent repainting due to the harsh marine environment. If you're unsure when to repaint, look for signs such as peeling, chalking, cracking, bare timber showing, or mould that won't wash off. If you leave it too late, you may be facing costly repairs, including replacing rotten timber or even re-cladding your entire house. In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about exterior house painting in NZ, including how often to repaint, surface types and considerations, prep work, paint selection, and costs.
How often does exterior paint last in NZ?
The lifespan of exterior paint in NZ varies significantly depending on the region. In general, homes in coastal areas such as Northland and Auckland will require repainting every 7-10 years due to the high levels of salt and moisture in the air. In central NZ, the lifespan of exterior paint is typically longer, ranging from 10-15 years. In the southern regions of Canterbury and Otago, the combination of UV exposure and frost can result in a longer lifespan of 12-18 years. However, it's essential to keep an eye out for signs that it's time to repaint, including: * Peeling or flaking paint * Chalking or powdering of the paint surface * Cracking or crazing of the paint * Bare timber showing through * Mould or mildew that won't wash off If you notice any of these signs, it's time to start planning for a repaint.
Surface types and considerations
Different surface types require different approaches when it comes to exterior painting. Here are some common surface types and considerations: * Weatherboard (timber): This is the most prep-intensive surface type, requiring sanding and priming of bare patches. A flexible paint such as Resene Lumbersider or Dulux Weathershield is recommended to accommodate the natural movement of the timber. * Fibrous cement (Hardiflex): If your home has fibrous cement cladding, it's essential to check if it was installed before 1990, as it may contain asbestos. If it does, you'll need to take special precautions when sanding, including wearing a mask and containing the dust. Resene Lumbersider or Dulux 10yr exterior are good paint options for fibrous cement. * Plaster/render (solid plaster, roughcast, monolithic): Plaster surfaces require a breathable paint to prevent moisture from becoming trapped. Resene Roof & Spouting or specialist plaster paints are good options. If you have a monolithic plaster home, it's essential to check for leaky home symptoms before painting, as these can be indicative of more significant issues. * Colosteel/metal surfaces: Metal surfaces require a rust-inhibiting primer and a direct-to-metal top coat to prevent corrosion.
Prep — the most important step
Preparation is the most critical step in exterior painting. Here are some essential prep tasks: * Water blasting: Hire a water blaster for $80-$150 per day or hire a contractor for $300-$800 to blast your entire house. This will help remove dirt, grime, and loose paint. * Drying time: Allow 2-3 fine days for the surface to dry completely before painting. * Scrape and sand: Scrape off peeling paint and sand the surface to create a smooth finish. * Fill cracks: Fill cracks with exterior grade filler such as Resene Filler or Selleys No More Gaps exterior. * Spot prime: Spot prime bare timber and repairs to ensure a strong bond between the paint and the surface. * Mask up: Mask up glass, trim, and other areas where you don't want to change the colour.
Paint selection
When it comes to paint selection, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key points: * Water-based vs oil-based: Most NZ painters now use water-based exterior paint due to its faster drying time, better flexibility, and lower VOC (volatile organic compound) levels. * Sheen level: A low-sheen finish is recommended for walls, while a semi-gloss finish is better suited for trim. * Brand and system: Resene, Dulux, and Wattyl are the three main NZ brands with full exterior systems. It's essential to choose a paint that is specifically designed for exterior use and suits your surface type.
Number of coats
One coat of paint is rarely enough on exterior surfaces. Two coats are standard, but three coats may be necessary on previously bare or heavily sanded surfaces.
DIY vs hire a painter
A full exterior repaint of a 3-bedroom house is a significant job that requires a lot of time, effort, and equipment. Here are some factors to consider: * Time and labour: A full exterior repaint can take 2-3 people a week to complete, depending on the size of the house and the complexity of the job. * Heights and access: If you have a two-storey house, you'll need to hire scaffolding, which can cost $400-$1,200 for a week. * Risk of falls: Painting at heights can be hazardous, and it's essential to take necessary safety precautions to avoid falls. * Professional equipment: Professional painters have the right equipment and expertise to do the job properly, including prep work, painting, and cleanup.
Exterior painting costs NZ
The cost of exterior painting in NZ can vary significantly depending on the surface type, size of the house, and location. Here are some estimated costs: * Professional painter — weatherboard 3-bed house: $6,000-$15,000 (includes prep, materials, and 2 coats of paint on walls and trim) * Professional painter — plaster house (less prep): $5,000-$12,000 * Per m² rate: $20-$45 per m² of wall area (surfaces vary significantly) * Scaffolding (if required): $800-$2,500 extra * Materials only (DIY): $1,500-$4,000 for a 3-bed house
To manage your painting business's finances, consider using accounting software like Xero or job management tools like Fergus or Tradify. These tools can help you track expenses, create invoices, and stay organised.
How to get the best painter quote
To get the best painter quote, it's essential to provide a clear and detailed scope of work, including: * Prep detail: Specify the level of prep work required, including water blasting, sanding, and filling cracks. * Number of coats: Specify the number of coats of paint required. * Paint brand and system: Specify the paint brand and system you want to use. * What's included: Specify what's included in the quote, such as spouting, eaves, and deck painting. Get at least three quotes from different painters and compare them to find the best value for your money.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about exterior painting in NZ: 1. How often should you paint the exterior of a house in NZ?: The frequency of exterior painting in NZ depends on the region, surface type, and environmental conditions. As a general rule, homes in coastal areas require repainting every 7-10 years, while homes in central NZ can go 10-15 years between repaints. 2. How do I get rid of mould before painting?: To get rid of mould before painting, use a solution of bleach and water to kill the mould. Then, rinse the surface thoroughly and allow it to dry before painting. 3. Can I paint fibrous cement cladding myself?: While it's possible to paint fibrous cement cladding yourself, it's essential to take necessary safety precautions, including wearing a mask and containing the dust. If your cladding contains asbestos, it's recommended to hire a professional painter who is trained to handle asbestos. 4. What's the best exterior paint for NZ conditions?: The best exterior paint for NZ conditions is a water-based paint that is specifically designed for exterior use and suits your surface type. Resene, Dulux, and Wattyl are all reputable brands that offer high-quality exterior paints. 5. Do painters supply the paint or do I?: It's common for painters to supply the paint, but it's essential to specify this in your quote and contract. If you're doing the job yourself, you'll need to purchase the paint and materials.
Conclusion
Exterior house painting is a significant job that requires careful planning, preparation, and execution. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure a successful and long-lasting paint job that will protect your home from the elements and enhance its appearance. To find exterior painters near you, visit tradietools.nz/trades/painters/ and use our handy calculator to estimate the cost of your paint job. Remember to always hire a professional painter who is licensed, insured, and experienced in exterior painting. With the right painter and the right paint, you can enjoy a beautiful and durable exterior finish that will last for years to come.