Top Tips for Painting the Exterior of your Historic Home 

The first critical step in painting the exterior of your property is selecting the right paint

and primer. Many homeowners and professionals are turning to Earthborn’s breathable

Silicate Masonry Paint, specially formulated for historic properties and porous materials

such as stone, masonry, cob, concrete, pebbledash, plaster, and lime render. When

used with their Silicate Primer, a highly breathable and permanent bond is formed.

Preparation is crucial for any painting project. Begin by removing any existing flaking or peeling

paint and addressing any damage with suitable materials. A high-pressure jet wash can help

identify unstable surfaces while cleaning the area thoroughly for preparation.

Next, pay attention to weather conditions before beginning your work. Ideally, temperatures

should remain above 8°C, even overnight, with no rain forecasted for a few days to ensure

proper curing of the paint.

Earthborn outlines essential steps for preparing to paint over a

lime-based surface:

1 | Choose a breathable finish

This keeps the surface permeable, preventing moisture build-up

beneath the paint.

2 | Allow curing time

Lime render should be fully cured before application; typically, allow one

month for every 5mm of thickness, extending this time in cooler conditions.

3 | Check surface stability

Ensure the surface is stable and free from flaky or powdery sections

before painting.

4 | Adhere to instructions

Follow the manufacturer’s application guidelines for optimal results.

Your colour choice significantly impacts the character and history of your older property. Consider the following factors:

Property age

Historical homes from various eras often feature characteristic colour

palettes. Georgian homes might showcase softer pastels, while Edwardian

properties could display richer, more saturated colours.

Location

Is your chosen colour common in your area? Observing surrounding

homes can provide inspiration and foster cohesion within the community.

Orientation

Consider which direction your property faces. North-facing homes may

benefit from warmer tones, while south-facing ones can effectively handle

cooler shades without losing vibrancy.

Earthborn’s Silicate Masonry Paint is available in 48 signature shades designed to

look timeless on older buildings. The eco-friendly, water-based paints are virtually

VOC free, protecting the health of residents and decorators alike, while supporting

sustainability goals.

Painting the exterior of your older property can enrich both its beauty and longevity.

By selecting breathable materials, preparing correctly, and thoughtfully choosing

colour, you can ensure that your historic building remains a cherished part of our

architectural heritage for many years to come.