Seasonal
When to paint the outside of your house in the UK
Temperature, rain, dew and sun all affect exterior paint. Here is when to book exterior painting in London and why the weather matters.
15 January 2026 · 2 min read · By Harry
Exterior paint is only as good as the conditions it goes on in. Paint applied to damp render or in near-freezing temperatures can fail within a single winter. Here is how we decide when to paint outside.
The ideal window: April to October
In London, most exterior painting happens between April and early October. We look for:
- Temperatures above about 8°C, day and night, for the paint to cure properly
- Dry surfaces, with no rain forecast for at least a few hours after painting
- Low humidity, as heavy dew in the evening can mark fresh paint
Why summer is not always perfect
Very hot, direct sun can make paint dry too quickly, leaving lap marks and poor adhesion. On the hottest days we follow the shade around the house, painting each side once the sun has moved off it.
Book early
Good exterior slots fill up quickly. We recommend getting a quote in late winter or early spring so your job is scheduled for the best weather.
Can you paint in winter?
Small jobs such as a front door can sometimes be done on a dry, mild winter day with specialist low-temperature paints. For full exteriors, waiting for the right season is almost always the better investment.
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Exterior painting
Masonry, render, windows, doors and timber painted with weather-resistant systems that protect your home and lift its kerb appeal.
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