Exterior Painting Services in London & Hertfordshire
Protect and enhance your property with professional exterior painting from Alba Decor. Serving homeowners across London and Hertfordshire, we deliver durable, weather-resistant finishes that stand up to the UK climate while transforming your home's appearance.
Why Exterior Painting Matters
Your home's exterior faces relentless challenges from the British weather – rain, wind, frost, and UV exposure all take their toll. Regular exterior painting isn't just about aesthetics; it's essential maintenance that protects your most valuable asset.
Three Key Benefits:
- Weather Protection:Quality exterior paint creates a waterproof barrier that prevents moisture penetration, wood rot, and structural damage. In our unpredictable climate, this protection is invaluable.
- Enhanced Curb Appeal:A freshly painted exterior dramatically improves your home's appearance. Whether you're planning to sell or simply want to take pride in your property, exterior painting delivers immediate visual impact.
- Property Value:Well-maintained exteriors command higher property values. Estate agents consistently report that homes with fresh exterior paintwork sell faster and achieve better prices.
Surfaces We Paint
Our exterior painting service covers every external surface of your property. Each material requires specific preparation, primers, and paint types to ensure longevity and performance.
Masonry & Render
We paint rendered walls, pebbledash, brick, and concrete using specialist masonry paints like Dulux Weathershield or Sandtex. These breathable paints allow moisture to escape while providing waterproof protection. Perfect for the typical North London Victorian and Edwardian properties throughout Barnet, Enfield, and surrounding areas.
External Woodwork
Window frames, doors, fascias, soffits, and barge boards all require specialist wood paint or stain. We prepare wooden surfaces thoroughly, treating any rot and applying primer before topcoats. Quality exterior wood paint protects against splitting, warping, and weather damage.
Decking & Fencing
Garden decking and fences face constant exposure to moisture and UV light. We offer both painting and staining options, using products designed specifically for horizontal surfaces and ensuring proper penetration into the wood grain for lasting protection.
Metal & UPVC
Gutters, downpipes, railings, and gates can all be refreshed with appropriate paint systems. Even UPVC windows and doors can be painted using specialist UPVC paint, giving tired plastic frames a fresh lease of life.
Our Weather-Resistant Process
Successful exterior painting in the UK climate requires meticulous preparation and the right products. We don't cut corners – proper preparation accounts for 70% of the finished result.
Step 1: Surface Assessment & Cleaning
We begin with a thorough inspection, identifying any damage, rot, or areas needing repair. Next comes power washing to remove dirt, algae, moss, and loose paint. This step is crucial – paint won't adhere properly to dirty or flaking surfaces. Clean surfaces also allow us to properly assess the condition of the substrate.
Step 2: Repairs & Preparation
Any damaged woodwork is repaired or replaced. Rotten sections of fascia or window frames are cut out and replaced with new timber. Render cracks are filled with flexible exterior filler. All surfaces are then sanded smooth, creating the perfect base for paint adhesion.
Step 3: Priming & Undercoating
Bare wood receives wood primer to seal the surface and prevent tannin bleed. Masonry gets stabilizing solution if necessary. Metal surfaces receive appropriate metal primer. These foundation coats are essential for paint system longevity.
Step 4: Application of Weather-Resistant Topcoats
We apply premium exterior paints designed for UK weather conditions. Dulux Weathershield provides excellent protection against rain and moisture, while Sandtex masonry paint offers breathable, flexible coverage for render and brick. Multiple coats ensure complete coverage and maximum durability. Depending on the surface and product, we typically apply 2-3 topcoats.
Understanding Paint Types:
Masonry Paint: Thick, textured paint containing fine aggregate. Provides waterproof protection while remaining breathable. Available in smooth or textured finishes. Ideal for render, brick, and concrete.
Exterior Wood Paint: Flexible paint that moves with the wood as it expands and contracts with temperature changes. Forms a protective barrier against moisture while allowing vapor to escape. Essential for fascias, soffits, and wooden cladding.
Common Exterior Painting Challenges We Solve
Peeling & Flaking Paint
Often caused by moisture trapped behind the paint or poor surface preparation. We strip back to sound paint or bare substrate, address the underlying cause, and rebuild the paint system properly. Simply painting over peeling paint is a waste of money.
Wood Rot & Decay
Common in older properties, particularly around window sills, fascia boards, and door frames. Rotten wood must be cut out and replaced – paint cannot fix structural decay. We treat surrounding wood with preservative before priming and painting.
Algae, Moss & Mold Growth
North-facing walls and shaded areas are prone to biological growth. We treat these areas with fungicidal wash, allow proper drying time, then apply paint with built-in fungicide protection. Modern masonry paints include additives that inhibit regrowth for years.
Chalking Render
Older painted render can develop a chalky surface as the paint breaks down. This must be removed through power washing and stabilizing solution before repainting, or new paint won't bond properly.
When to Schedule Exterior Painting
Timing is critical for exterior painting success. Paint requires specific temperature and humidity conditions to cure properly. In the UK climate, this means strategic planning.
Ideal Season: Late Spring to Early Autumn
May through September offers the most reliable weather for exterior painting. We need:
- Dry conditions for at least 24-48 hours after application
- Temperatures between 10-25°C for optimal paint curing
- Low humidity to allow proper drying
- No rain forecast for at least 6 hours after painting
Winter Painting: We generally avoid exterior painting between November and March. Cold temperatures prevent proper paint curing, and frequent rain makes scheduling impossible. However, if you have urgent repairs or specific circumstances, we can sometimes work during brief dry spells using fast-drying formulations.
Project Duration: Typical terraced house takes 3-5 days. Semi-detached or detached properties may require 5-7 days depending on size and complexity. We monitor weather forecasts closely and communicate any necessary schedule adjustments.
Why Choose Alba Decor for Exterior Painting
✓ Fully Insured
Comprehensive public liability insurance gives you complete peace of mind.
✓ Scaffolding Access
We arrange scaffolding when needed for safe access to high areas and upper floors.
✓ Premium Products
We use Dulux Weathershield, Sandtex, and other trusted brands proven in UK conditions.
✓ Local Expertise
Years serving North London and Hertfordshire – we understand local property types.
✓ Weather Monitoring
We track forecasts carefully and only work in suitable conditions for guaranteed results.
✓ Transparent Pricing
Detailed written quotes with no hidden costs. You know exactly what you're paying for.
As a family-run business based in the area, we take pride in every project. We treat your home with the same care and attention we'd give our own. Our reputation is built on quality workmanship and reliable service – that's why so much of our work comes from recommendations.
Ready to Protect & Refresh Your Property?
Get a free, no-obligation quote for your exterior painting project. We'll assess your property, discuss your requirements, and provide a detailed written estimate covering all aspects of the work.
Serving Barnet, Enfield, Watford, St Albans, Harrow, Stevenage and throughout North London & Hertfordshire