Exterior emulsions are water-based paints that offer protection for exterior masonry surfaces from the elements like sunlight, rainfall and algae/fungal attack.

In general terms, any season other than the rainy season should suit the exterior painting. However, painting is not recommended when ambient temperatures are above 35⁰C and below 10⁰C. It is also equally important that the substrate ie; the wall, is not too hot or too cold or wet. Relative Humidity should be between 40% – 60% for best results and avoid painting when relative humidity is greater than 85% and also when humidity is very low.

Identify the reason for getting your wall painted. For medium-term protection and shaded exteriors, you can choose our Exterior Emulsion Gold Series. For the long term, we have Premium XT Exterior emulsion with a rich matt finish and for walls that need that extra shine and that extra protection from moisture and algae, we have Acrylic Laminate. Another unique product for the exteriors that combines protection from dirt and water is the Indigo Dirtproof and Waterproof exterior laminate and it’s the perfect choice for worry-free walls.

The steps recommended below must be followed for the best performance of any exterior emulsion.

1. The surface to be painted must be cleaned thoroughly using a wire brush and clean water. All traces of loose paint, algae, dust, grime must be removed. Areas where there is a high potential for algae growth must be cleaned using a bio-wash solution before painting.

2. Cracks, if any, on the surface to be painted must be closed.

3. Areas with constant dampness must be identified and corrected prior to painting. The source of the leak must be fixed permanently.

4. If the substrate shows signs of chalkiness, a primer with anti-efflorescence properties like Indigo WT Sealer Primer must be used.

Spray application is convenient if large areas have to be painted and there are not too many colour variants. Spray application gets the job done faster but requires a skilled applicator and there will be 35-45% wastage of material as a spray mist. Care must be taken to mask existing furniture and nearby items when using spray application, especially during re-painting of interiors and this can be a tedious process.

Brush / Roller application takes more time but the wastage of paint is much less compared to spray application. This method of application is generally preferred over spray for repainting interiors or when the number of shades involved are high.

All our exterior emulsions are water-resistant and can withstand rainfall and splashes of water. In fact, Acrylic Laminate and Dirtproof and Waterproof emulsion repel water and are designed to offer a water-beading effect.

Painting should be done when one starts to notice deterioration in the existing paint film, loss of paint film integrity and algae / fungal growth.

Repainting frequency generally depends on the type of paint used previously and also the conditions the wall has been exposed to. Generally exterior emulsions can last from 3 years to 7 years depending on the product used and the system of application, for eg: a product like Dirtproof and waterproof exterior laminate offers long term protection of 5-7 years.

Indigo Exterior emulsions are available in wide variety of colours to enhance the appearance of your house while also making sure that the walls remain protected from sunlight and rainfall. They also function to keep the surface free from algae and fungus.

Technically there is nothing wrong with painting an interior emulsion over an exterior emulsion, however it is not practical and usually not recommended. All exterior coatings come designed with features that help outlast the effects of sunlight & rainfall and offer all the decorative features that the exterior of

a house needs. This cannot be substituted by interior emulsions as these are formulated for a different purpose.

Yes. The main role of an exterior primer is to improve the adhesion between the substrate and the topcoat. It also improves the coverage of the topcoat. An exterior primer also plays an important role by improving the hiding especially when changing the colour of the exterior of your house completely during repainting and makes the process of colour transition a lot smoother and easier.

For Indian weather, especially with extreme summers, monsoons, and humidity, it’s crucial to choose exterior paints with high durability, UV resistance, and water-repellent properties. D&W Exterior Laminate with anti-fungal and anti-algal properties are ideal for Indian conditions.

Typically, exteriors should be repainted every 5-7 years. However, in coastal or high-humidity areas, where weathering is more intense, repainting might be needed every 3-5 years to maintain protection and aesthetics.

To protect walls from rain and dampness, use high-quality waterproof exterior emulsions. Applying a waterproof primer before the paint and ensuring proper drainage systems can also help prevent moisture from seeping in.

Earthy tones like beige, terracotta, and olive green are popular in Indian homes, as they blend well with natural surroundings. Additionally, bold colours like royal blue and brick red are also trending for creating a striking visual impact.

Exterior paints are formulated to withstand harsh weather conditions, including UV rays, rain, and pollution. They are more durable, and flexible, and often include anti-fungal properties. Interior paints, on the other hand, are designed for aesthetic appeal and ease of cleaning, with less emphasis on weather resistance.

For exterior walls, a matte finish is usually preferred as it hides surface imperfections and provides a classic look. Semi-gloss or gloss finishes are suitable for trim work, gates, and railings, as they offer more durability and are easier to clean.

Yes, many brands offer eco-friendly exterior emulsions that are low in VOCs and free from harmful chemicals. These paints are better for the environment and are safe for your family.

For homes near the sea, choose exterior paints with high resistance to saltwater, moisture, and algae. Anti-corrosive primers and waterproofing agents are also recommended to protect the structure from the harsh coastal environment.

You can paint over old paint if it’s in good condition. However, if the old paint is peeling, chalking, or has significant damage, it’s best to remove it, repair the surface, and apply a primer before painting to ensure the new coat adheres properly.

To prevent fading, choose paints with UV-resistant properties. High-quality acrylic emulsions are designed to resist fading even in harsh sunlight. Additionally, light shades tend to fade less compared to darker hues.

Calculate the total surface area of the exterior walls and multiply it by the number of coats required. Typically, 1 litre of exterior emulsion covers about 80-100 square feet with one coat. It’s advisable to buy a little extra for touch-ups.

Drying times can vary depending on the paint and weather conditions. On average, exterior emulsions take about 4-6 hours to dry to the touch and 24 hours to fully cure. It’s important to allow each coat to dry thoroughly before applying the next.

Yes, exterior emulsions can be used on various surfaces like concrete, brick, and even wood provided the surface is properly primed and prepared. However, specialized paints are recommended for metal and plastic surfaces.

Regular cleaning of dust and debris, and washing the walls with mild detergent and water every few years can help maintain their appearance. Reapplying a protective topcoat can also extend the life of the paint.

Common mistakes include skipping surface preparation, using the wrong type of paint, applying paint in extreme weather conditions, and not allowing adequate drying time between coats. Proper surface cleaning, priming, and following the manufacturer’s guidelines are crucial for a successful paint job.