As the summer sun starts serving heat and sass, there’s no better time to channel your inner DIY diva and give your home the fierce new look it deserves. Whether your house is a weatherboard classic yearning for some TLC or a cedar queen needing her gloss back, exterior painting can be your ultimate summer makeover project. And yes, darling, this is your chance to turn that plain Jane house into a fab neighbourhood statement piece.
Here’s how to werk it and keep your home looking as flawless as your Pride outfit.
Step 1: Prep Like a Pro
Every transformation starts with preparation—just like you wouldn’t roll into Family without planning your outfit, don’t dive into painting without getting the groundwork right.
-Kill the Mould (and Drama): Just as no one needs toxic vibes, your house doesn’t need mould or mildew. Treat those shady areas with Resene Moss & Mould Killer and scrub away the past with Resene Paint Prep and Housewash.
– Sand It Smooth: Got flaking or crocodiled paint? Sand it down with 120-150 grit sandpaper, feather those edges, and say goodbye to unevenness—because uneven paint is as tragic as uneven eyeliner.
– Fill the Gaps: Use contract filler for cracks and nail holes. Think of it as giving your house a little Botox—smoothing out imperfections so it looks fresh and youthful.
For weathered or greyed timber, Resene TimberLock is your go-to magic potion. It’s like a conditioner for your timber, bringing it back to life before you paint.
Step 2: Prime for Success (and a Little Extra Drama)
Think of primers as the skincare step in your makeup routine—they’re essential to lock everything in and ensure your topcoat stays stunning for longer.
-For Cedar Queens: Use Resene Wood Primer to block out resin stains, just like you’d block out haters.
– Aged to Perfection: Resene Quick Dry Primer works wonders on older paints, creating a smooth canvas for your masterpiece.
– Rusty Nails and Drama Queens: If your home’s nails are showing their age (relatable), Resene Aluminium Wood Primer will keep them looking polished and refined.
Pro Tip: Always prime freshly sanded areas immediately. Like sunscreen for your skin, primer protects your timber from nasty UV rays and moisture.
Step 3: Pick Your Topcoat
Your house deserves a topcoat that’s as iconic as Cher. The right paint is everything, whether you’re going for glossy glam or a soft satin finish.
– High-Gloss Diva: Resene Hi-Glo delivers a sleek, mirror-like finish that screams *extra*. Perfect for weatherboards that want to be the centre of attention.
– Semi-Gloss Elegance: Resene Sonyx 101 is for the slightly shy queens—it’s easier to apply and hides imperfections like a pro concealer.
– Satin Sophistication: Resene Lumbersider is your satin saviour, ideal for fences, pergolas, and rough timber that doesn’t want to try too hard.
Choose your paint like you choose your drag name: bold, beautiful, and long-lasting.
Step 4: Paint Like a Drag Superstar
Now that your prep game is strong, it’s time to unleash your inner artist.
– Brush with Perfection: Use a Legend brush for application. Bigger brushes (75-83mm) are great for broad strokes, while smaller brushes (35-50mm) are perfect for the details—like contouring but for your house.
– Roll It Out: For large areas, grab a roller and channel your best dance moves with a ‘W’ pattern. Even coverage? Yas, queen!
– Hot Weather Hack: If the summer heat is turning up, add a touch of Resene Hot Weather Additive to your paint—it’s like sweat-proofing your masterpiece.
Step 5: Finish Stronger Than Your Best Lip Sync
Once your paint is dry and you’re gagging over the transformation, add the finishing touches:
– Peel off the masking tape with the precision of a makeup wipe at the night’s end.
– Check for missed spots and touch up with a small brush—it’s all in the details, darling.
– Let each coat dry properly before applying the next. Patience is key, and the payoff is worth it.
For doors and windows, Resene Lustacryl is your semi-gloss bestie, while Resene Enamacryl brings high-gloss realness.
Colour Inspiration for gay Royalty
Summer is all about bold colours, and your house deserves to shine. With Resene Cool Colour technology, you can even go dark and moody without worrying about heat absorption. Test out colours with Resene test pots to ensure your home’s lewk slays in every light.
Feeling adventurous? Channel your inner rainbow warrior and add a pop of unexpected colour to your trims or doors—because why blend in when you were born to stand out?
Tips for Long-Lasting Elegance
Just like a good skincare routine, maintenance keeps your home glowing:
1. Annual Glam-Up: Wash your painted surfaces with Resene Paint Prep and Housewash to keep them looking fierce.
2. Inspect for Drama: Check for flaking or bubbling paint and touch it up before it becomes a full-blown scandal.
3. Recoat as Needed: A little fresh paint goes a long way to maintain your home’s curb appeal.
Your Home, Your Masterpiece
Painting your exterior this summer isn’t just a chore—it’s a chance to express your fabulous self. With a little preparation, the right tools, and a lot of attitude, your DIY skills can transform your home into a statement piece that screams, “I’ve arrived!”
So grab your brushes, throw on a playlist of queer anthems, and let your house sparkle like the star it was always meant to be. After all, why settle for the ordinary when you can be extraordinary?
Now go on, you gorgeous thing—your home’s glow-up awaits!
Head to resene.co.nz for everything you need for your decorating project – from quality colour and paints, decorating accessories, wallpaper, curtains, inspiration and professional advice!
