Exterior Paint Maintenance & Care Guide for Australian Homes

1. Why Exterior Paint Maintenance Matters

Australia’s climate is harsh on home exteriors—intense UV rays, coastal salt, wind, and temperature swings can all damage paint over time. Regular maintenance doesn’t just keep your home beautiful; it also protects surfaces like timber, brick, and render from moisture and corrosion.

2. Seasonal Inspection Routine

• Summer: Check for cracks or fading due to heat and UV exposure.

• Autumn: Clean walls to remove dust and salt build-up from dry winds.

• Winter: Inspect for mould or peeling caused by moisture.

• Spring: Ideal time for touch-ups and repainting before the next summer.

3. Cleaning and Washing Tips

Clean your exterior walls at least twice a year. Use a soft brush or pressure washer with mild detergent. Avoid harsh chemicals that can strip the paint’s protective layer.For coastal homes, rinse walls more often to remove salt deposits, which can cause early paint breakdown.

4. Repairing and Touching Up

Address minor peeling, flaking, or chalking early before it spreads.

• Scrape off loose paint.

• Lightly sand the area for smoothness.

• Prime before repainting with the same brand and colour for best consistency.

Regular small touch-ups prevent costly full repaints later.

5. Protecting Paint in Harsh Conditions

• UV Protection: Use sun-resistant paints (e.g. Dulux Weathershield, Wattyl Solagard).

• Moisture Control: Ensure proper drainage and gutter maintenance to prevent water stains.

• Mould Prevention: Wash shaded or damp walls regularly with diluted vinegar or anti-mould cleaner.

6. Extending Paint Life

• Repaint every 7–10 years, depending on exposure and quality.

• Keep landscaping away from walls to improve airflow.

• Avoid high-pressure cleaning too often—it can damage paint film.

• Store leftover paint for touch-ups and record your colour code.

7. Bonus Tip – Professional Maintenance

If you live in coastal or tropical regions, consider hiring a professional painter for bi-annual inspections.They can check for micro-cracks, substrate movement, and adhesion loss early—saving you thousands in long-term repairs.