Ensure a professional-quality paint job that lasts, with our mistakes prevention checklist
BEFORE YOU START
☐ Test colours in natural Gold Coast light: Buy sample pots, paint 1m x 1m sections on different sides of house, observe at different times of the day for at least one week
☐ Check weather forecast thoroughly: Temp’s should be between 15-30°C, humidity below 70%, no rain 48 hours before/after. Best seasons: Autumn (March-May) or Spring (September-November)
☐ Purchase premium exterior paint: High UV resistance, mould inhibitors, salt-air tolerance. Recommended: Dulux Weathershield, Taubmans Endure, Wattyl Solagard ($50/L premium saves money long-term)
SURFACE PREPARATION (HINT: SPEND MORE TIME THAN YOU THINK HERE!)
☐ Pressure wash all surfaces: Remove salt buildup (coastal homes), dirt, and mould. Use correct PSI for your surface type
☐ Scrape all loose, flaking paint: Remove until only healthy paint remains
☐ Sand rough areas smooth: Create even surface for paint adhesion
☐ Fill all cracks with exterior-grade filler: Prevent moisture getting in
☐ Treat mould and mildew: Use fungicidal wash, apply fungicidal primer on affected areas
☐ Fix ALL damage before painting: Wood rot, cracked render, rusted metal, gaps around windows/doors ($200 repair now vs $2,000+ later)
PRIMING & PAINTING
☐ Apply an appropriate primer: Always prime bare surfaces, stain bleeding areas, and dramatic colour changes. Use special primers for salt damage or mould
☐ Use correct sheen for each surface: Flat/low-sheen on house body (hides imperfections), satin/semi-gloss on trim/doors/windows (durability)
☐ Apply sufficient coats: Minimum 2 topcoats always. Primer + 2 topcoats for colour changes/bare surfaces. 3+ coats for dark to light colour changes
☐ Don't neglect trim and details: Use complementary trim colour (even 1-2 shades different) to create depth and highlight features
IF HIRING PROFESSIONALS
☐ Check licences and verify their insurance: Protect yourself and your property
☐ Review past projects with photos: See the quality of their work
☐ Get detailed written quotes: Must explain preparation steps, number of coats, materials/brands included, and warranties
☐ Watch for red flags: Quotes 20%+ below average, vague scope, no contract, full payment upfront, no insurance verification
NEED PROFESSIONAL HELP?
Coverage By Design | Proudly serving Gold Coast homeowners for over 20 years
📞 Phone: 0468 207 519 ✉️ Email: info@coveragebydesign.com.au 🌐 Web: coveragebydesign.com.au
Taubmans Certified Applicators | Free assessments & quotes | Premium Materials | Quality guaranteed