When Is The Best Time To Paint Cladding?

Are you wondering when the best time to paint cladding is? If so, you’re not alone. Whether you’re looking to refresh your home’s exterior or you’re tackling a commercial property, timing is crucial for achieving a long-lasting and professional finish.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best times to paint cladding, delve into the different types of cladding you can paint, and provide answers to frequently asked questions. By the end of this post, you’ll be well-equipped to plan your cladding painting project for the best possible results.

Cladding serves as a protective layer that shields buildings from the elements, enhances aesthetic appeal, and can even improve insulation. It comes in various materials, each with unique properties and painting requirements. Proper maintenance, including timely repainting, is essential to preserve its functionality and appearance.

Choosing the right time to paint cladding is essential for achieving a durable and attractive finish. By understanding the types of cladding, considering weather conditions, and following proper preparation and painting techniques, you can ensure your project is a success. Whether you decide to tackle the job yourself or hire a professional, the key is to plan carefully and use high-quality materials.

If you have any questions or need further assistance with your cladding painting project, feel free to leave a comment below for the experts in Rawlins Paint’s Technical team to review. We’re here to help!

Types of Cladding to Paint

Timber Cladding

Timber cladding stands out for its natural beauty and versatility, making it a popular choice for both residential and commercial properties. It can be painted, stained, varnished, sealed or oiled in a wide array of colours and finishes to achieve styles ranging from traditional wood tones to bold contemporary shades. However, timber cladding requires regular maintenance to keep it looking its best and to protect it from environmental threats. Exposure to moisture can lead to rot, while insect infestations can cause significant damage if not promptly addressed. To preserve its integrity and appearance, it’s essential to treat timber cladding periodically. This protective layer helps to keep out moisture and wood-boring insects, keeping the wood healthy and ensuring the longevity and durability of the wood.

When preparing to paint timber cladding, or stain, varnish, seal or oil – thorough surface preparation is crucial. This involves cleaning the wood to remove dirt and mildew, sanding to create a smooth surface, and applying a primer to enhance adhesion. Selecting a high-quality exterior product that offers UV protection and moisture resistance is key to achieving a durable finish. Regular inspections and maintenance will help to identify any issues early, allowing for timely touch-ups and repairs.

Residential Homes

Traditional and modern homes use wood cladding for its natural, warm appearance. It can be stained, painted, oiled or varnished to match various design themes and offers good insulation properties.

Cabins and Cottages

Popular in rural and recreational buildings, wood cladding provides a rustic and cosy feel, blending well with natural surroundings.

Public Buildings

Schools and community centres often use wood cladding to create a welcoming and warm environment. It also offers good acoustic properties, reducing noise levels inside.

 

Plastic and PVC Cladding

Painting plastic and PVC cladding can significantly enhance its appearance and extend its lifespan. To achieve the best results, it is crucial to follow a meticulous preparation process. Be sure to thoroughly clean the cladding before painting, removing dirt, grime, and any mould or mildew, using a proprietary cleaner. Some specific cleaners designed for plastic and PVC do more than just clean and actually activate the surface ready to receive a coating application. Although primers designed for plastic surfaces are available, most plastic and PVC cladding paints now don’t require the use of a primer and are formulated to be applied directly to the surface ensuring proper adhesion and longevity of the paint.

When selecting a paint for plastic cladding, a higher-quality coating will last for longer if the surface is prepared correctly. This means much less disruption for businesses wanting to refresh their building exteriors, especially those updating corporate colour schemes. By using the appropriate materials, you can paint plastic and PVC cladding in thousands of colours, providing a refreshed and durable finish that withstands various weather conditions.

Retail Kiosks

Small retail kiosks and pop-up shops often use UPVC cladding for a clean, professional appearance that is easy to maintain.

Fast Food Restaurants

Drive-thru restaurants and fast food outlets utilise UPVC cladding for its ease of cleaning and durability.

 

Metal and Plastisol Cladding

Metal cladding, commonly made from aluminium or steel, is valued for its strength, durability, and sleek appearance. It’s often used in modern architectural designs for both residential and commercial buildings. Painting metal cladding can serve multiple purposes: protecting the metal from corrosion, enhancing its appeal, and increasing its longevity. The process of painting metal cladding requires careful preparation to ensure a long-lasting finish, with thousands of colours available for cladding such as anthracite grey.

Before painting metal cladding, the surface must be cleaned to remove any dirt, rust, or old loose paint. Applying a rust-inhibitive primer to bare metal areas is essential to prevent future corrosion and ensure proper adhesion of the topcoat. Choose a high-quality exterior paint designed for metal surfaces, as it will provide the best protection against the elements. Regular maintenance, including inspections and touch-ups, will help to keep the metal cladding in optimal condition.

Commercial Buildings

Office buildings, shopping centres, and warehouses often use metal cladding for its durability, sleek appearance, and low maintenance. The speed of installation can reduce construction costs and provide a modern aesthetic.

Industrial Facilities

Factories and industrial units favour metal cladding due to its robustness and resistance to harsh environmental conditions. It can also be treated to resist corrosion and fire.

High-Rise Buildings

Used in skyscrapers and multi-story buildings, metal cladding offers strength and lightweight properties, making it ideal for high-wind areas and structural efficiency.

 

Brick and Stone Cladding

Brick and stone cladding are typically chosen for their natural beauty and durability. These materials are often left unpainted to showcase their rustic qualities. However, there are situations where painting brick or stone cladding might be desirable. For instance, restoring aged or weathered cladding, achieving a specific design look, or matching new construction with existing structures can all be reasons to consider painting these materials.

Painting brick and stone cladding requires careful preparation. Clean the surface thoroughly to remove any dirt, moss, or loose material. Depending on the condition of the cladding, you may need to repair any cracks or damaged areas before painting. Apply a primer designed for masonry surfaces should one be required to ensure good paint adhesion and longevity. Choose a high-quality, breathable exterior paint to allow moisture to escape from the cladding, preventing potential damage from trapped moisture. Regular maintenance will help to preserve the painted finish and protect the underlying material.

Historic Buildings

Used to preserve the traditional look of older buildings while providing modern performance benefits such as insulation and moisture resistance.

Urban Residential Buildings

Common in townhouses and apartment buildings, brick and masonry cladding offer a classic, durable exterior that requires minimal maintenance and provides excellent thermal mass.

Civic Buildings

Courthouses, museums, and government buildings often use brick and masonry cladding to convey a sense of permanence and authority, while also benefiting from its fire resistance and sound insulation properties.

 

Each type of cladding presents unique challenges and opportunities when it comes to painting. By understanding the specific needs of your cladding material and following best practices for preparation and application, you can achieve a beautiful, durable finish that enhances the appearance and protection of your property.

The Best Time to Paint Cladding

Weather Conditions

The Importance of Dry Weather

Drying and Curing

Paint needs time to dry and cure properly. When painting in dry conditions, the paint forms a strong, durable bond with the cladding material. Wet or damp conditions can prevent this, leading to peeling, bubbling, or poor adhesion.

Avoiding Rain

Rain can wash away fresh paint, especially if it hasn’t fully dried. Even light rain can affect the surface finish, causing streaks or blotches.

Dew and Condensation

Even if it’s not raining, high humidity and cool temperatures can cause dew or condensation to form on the cladding, particularly overnight. This moisture can compromise the drying paint. Painting should ideally be scheduled for times when there’s no risk of dew forming on the surface.

 

Look For Stable Weather Patterns

Forecast Monitoring

Consistent weather over several days is ideal for painting projects. This ensures that each layer of paint has sufficient time to dry and cure before the weather changes.

Wind Considerations

High winds can carry dust and debris that can stick to wet paint, ruining the finish. It can also create overspray when applying by spray causing issues with neighbouring property. High wind can also cause the paint to dry unevenly or too quickly. Calm weather is preferable.

 

Be Mindful Of Temperature and Its Effects

Optimal Temperature Range

The recommended temperature range for most paints is between 10°C and 30°C. However, this ideal range can vary depending on the specific paint type and the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Cooler Temperatures

In temperatures below 10°C, water-based paints can have issues applying evenly. It also slows down the drying process, increasing the risk of dust and debris settling on the paint. These paints may not cure properly in cold weather, leading to poor durability. Consider using a solvent-based cladding paint in winter months or on colder days.

Warmer Temperatures

Temperatures above 30°C can cause the paint to dry too quickly, especially if the cladding is in direct sunlight. Rapid drying can lead to brush marks, roller marks, and an uneven finish. It can also make it challenging to maintain a wet edge, which is necessary for a smooth, consistent coat.

 

Monitor Humidity Levels

Impact of High Humidity

High humidity levels (above 70%) can slow down the drying process of paint. This can result in a tacky or sticky surface that attracts dust and insects. In extreme cases, it can cause the paint to sag or run.

Impact of Low Humidity

Low humidity levels (below 40%) can cause the paint to dry too quickly. This can lead to a rough texture, poor adhesion, and increased likelihood of cracks or peeling.

Balanced Humidity

Ideally, paint in conditions where the humidity is between 40% and 70%. This balance allows the paint to dry at a controlled rate, forming a strong, smooth, and durable finish.

Always check the manufacturer’s data sheet for your chosen cladding paint before starting a project, to check its recommended weather conditions, temperatures and humidity.

 

Seasonal Considerations

The different seasons in the UK bring their own sets of advantages and challenges to painting projects, such as cladding. As well as checking the weather forecast for clear days, care must be taken to store your cladding paints correctly whilst waiting to use them.

Spring Advantages:

• Moderate Temperatures
  • Spring often provides mild temperatures that are ideal for painting. This helps avoid issues with paint drying too quickly or too slowly.
• Lower Humidity
  • Spring typically has lower humidity compared to summer, reducing the risk of paint sagging or remaining tacky.
• Longer Daylight Hours
  • Increasing daylight hours allow for extended work periods.

 

Spring Challenges:

• Unpredictable Weather
  • Spring weather can be unpredictable with frequent rain showers. Monitor weather forecasts closely!
• Pollen
  • High pollen levels can affect the paint job by sticking to wet paint and creating a textured finish.
• Late Frost
  • In some regions in the UK, the risk of frost extends into late spring. Frost can ruin a paint job if it occurs before the paint has fully dried and cured.
• Tips:
  • Monitor weather forecasts closely and plan around rain.
  • Paint mid-morning to allow dew to evaporate.
  • Watch out for pollen levels and avoid painting on days with high pollen counts.

Summer Advantages:

• Stable Weather
  • Summer usually provides more stable and predictable weather patterns, reducing the risk of rain interruptions.
• Fast Drying Times
  • Warm temperatures can expedite the drying and curing process, allowing for quicker project completion.
• Extended Daylight
  • The long daylight hours of summer enable painters to maximise their working time.

Summer Challenges:

• High Temperatures
  • Excessive heat can cause paint to dry too quickly, leading to an uneven finish and poor adhesion. Surface temperatures, especially on metal or dark-coloured cladding, can be significantly higher than air temperatures.
• High Humidity
  • Humidity levels can be very high in summer, which can slow drying times and cause issues like mildew growth and paint blistering.
• Sun Exposure
  • Direct sunlight can cause paint to dry too fast, leading to visible brush marks and lap lines. It’s best to paint shaded areas or to create temporary shade if possible.
• Tips:
  • Paint early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid peak heat.
  • Avoid painting in direct sunlight or on extremely hot days.
  • Stay hydrated and take breaks to avoid heat exhaustion.

Autumn Advantages:

• Moderate Temperatures
  • Like spring, early autumn can provide more mild and stable temperatures conducive to painting.
• Reduced Humidity
  • Generally, autumn months have lower humidity levels compared to summer – beneficial for the paint drying process.
• Less Pollen and Dust
  • Autumn typically has lower pollen counts and less airborne dust, resulting in a cleaner finish.

Autumn Challenges:

• Shortening Daylight
  • As autumn progresses, daylight hours decrease, limiting the time available for painting each day.
• Cooling Temperatures
  • In late autumn, the temperature can drop quickly, especially overnight. Make sure to complete painting projects before the weather turns too cold!
• Frost Risk
  • Similar to spring, early frosts can occur in late autumn, which can be detrimental if the paint hasn’t fully cured.
• Tips:
  • Start projects early in the season to avoid cold weather.
  • Be mindful of shorter daylight hours and plan accordingly.
  • Keep an eye on overnight temperatures to ensure they stay above the recommended level for paint drying.

 

Winter Advantages:

• None for Exterior Painting
  • Winter generally offers no significant advantages for exterior painting due to the numerous challenges presented by cold and wet conditions.

Winter Challenges:

• Low Temperatures
  • Cold temperatures slow down the drying and curing process, making it difficult for paint to adhere properly and form a durable finish.
• High Humidity and Moisture
  • Winter often brings higher humidity and more precipitation, including snow, sleet, and rain, which can prevent paint from drying properly.
• Short Daylight Hours
  • Limited daylight hours reduce the time available for painting.
• Surface Conditions
  • Surfaces may be cold, damp, or frosty, all of which are unsuitable for painting.
• Tips:
  • If exterior painting is unavoidable, use cold-weather paints formulated for low temperatures.
  • Ensure the surface is dry and free from frost before painting.
  • Consider delaying the project until more favourable conditions return in spring.

FAQ’s

 

How Often Should Cladding Be Painted?

The frequency of painting cladding varies based on material type, environmental conditions, and paint quality. Metal cladding is generally repainted every 5-10 years, especially in areas with high moisture or pollution. Wood cladding, being more susceptible to weathering and UV damage, may require repainting every 3-7 years. UPVC and composite cladding are more durable, often repainted every 10-20 years, while brick and masonry cladding can go 10-15 years between paintings. High-quality paint and professional application can extend these intervals, while harsh climates can shorten them. Many specialist cladding paints have long performance guarantees against colour fading and flaking.

Regular maintenance and inspections are crucial for prolonging the life of cladding paint. Annual inspections to identify and address minor issues, such as peeling or cracking, can prevent more extensive damage and reduce the frequency of full repaints. Environmental factors like extreme temperatures, humidity, and pollution also play a significant role in determining how often cladding should be painted. Overall, a proactive approach to maintenance and using quality materials will ensure cladding remains protective and pleasing to the eye for as long as possible.

 

What Are the Signs That Cladding Needs Repainting?

Signs that cladding needs repainting include:

Peeling or Cracking Paint

This indicates that the paint is no longer adhering properly to the surface, exposing the material underneath to potential damage.

Fading or Discoloration

UV rays and weather can cause paint to lose its vibrancy, resulting in a dull or uneven appearance.

Chalking

A powdery residue on the surface of the cladding is a sign that the paint is breaking down.

Blistering or Bubbling

This occurs when moisture gets trapped under the paint, causing bubbles to form.

Visible Damage to the Cladding

Cracks, dents, or other damage to the cladding material can compromise the paint and the underlying structure.

Mould, Mildew, or Algae Growth

These can indicate that the protective paint layer is no longer effective at keeping moisture out.

Rust or Corrosion

For metal cladding, signs of rust or corrosion mean the protective paint layer has worn away.

Overall Decline

If the cladding looks outdated or worn, a fresh coat of paint can enhance its appearance and provide additional protection.

Regular inspections can help identify these issues early, allowing for timely repainting and maintenance to preserve the integrity and appearance of the cladding.

 

Can I Change the Colour of My Cladding?

Yes, you can change the colour of your cladding. Trending shades include Anthracite Grey and Chartwell Green, but cladding paints are available in thousands of shades and colours for all types of cladding. Just ensure that, if matching an existing colour, you find its RAL, NCS, or British Standard code. Paint names, such as Post Box Red, differ in colour between brands whereas paint codes (RAL 7016 Anthracite Grey) are consistent no matter who mixes your cladding paint.

It is essential to use a high-quality cladding paint and follow proper preparation and application techniques to achieve a uniform and durable finish. Proper preparation includes cleaning the cladding thoroughly to remove dirt, dust, and any existing loose paint. Depending on the material, you may also need to sand the surface and apply a suitable primer to ensure good adhesion.

In addition to preparation, applying the paint correctly is crucial. Use the appropriate type of paint for your cladding material—whether it’s metal, wood, uPVC, or composite—and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application. This typically involves applying multiple coats and allowing adequate drying time between each coat. By carefully preparing and painting your cladding, you can successfully change its colour and refresh the appearance of your building.

 

Does Painted Cladding Require Special Care?

Painted cladding doesn’t require special care beyond regular maintenance. Keep it clean, inspect it regularly, and perform touch-ups as needed to maintain its appearance and protective qualities.

1. Regular Cleaning: Clean the cladding periodically to remove dirt, grime, and pollutants. Use a mild detergent and water, and avoid abrasive cleaners or high-pressure washing, which can damage the paint.
2. Inspection and Maintenance: Regularly inspect the cladding for signs of damage, such as peeling or cracking paint, and address any issues promptly. Touch up any areas where the paint has been chipped or worn away to prevent further deterioration.
3. Protection from Moisture: Ensure that the cladding is well-protected from moisture, as prolonged exposure can lead to issues like mould, mildew, or blistering paint. Make sure gutters and downspouts are functioning properly to direct water away from the cladding.
4. Avoiding Harsh Conditions: Minimise exposure to extreme weather conditions whenever possible. For example, consider using shades or awnings to protect the cladding from intense sun exposure, which can cause fading and wear over time.
5. Gentle Handling: Be cautious when performing activities around the cladding to avoid physical damage. Avoid leaning heavy objects against it or causing scratches and dents that can compromise the paint and underlying material.

By following these care guidelines, you can extend the lifespan of your painted cladding and keep it looking fresh and well-maintained for years to come.