Applying the first top coat before installation can save time later and will assist in protecting against moisture uptake during the construction and finishing processes. For weatherboards, it is recommended that at a minimum the top lap of the boards are coated with top coat approximately 50mm down from the top edge. This will eliminate a primer line showing if the boards move with the seasonal change that can occur. Ideally the boards would receive a full top coat before installation.

The primer will not protect against moisture uptake, which can result in dimensional swelling. If swelling or distortion of the timber is evident, the product must be given time to dry out and return to its equilibrium moisture content and manufactured dimensions before any top coats are applied to avoid shrinkage lines. This applies especially to weatherboards and fascia.

All end cuts, notches, rebates and drill holes must be resealed with a suitable end-sealing product such as Envira Fast Dry End Seal.

- Remove all loose material and dirt.
- Primers will not withstand extended periods exposed to the elements and may require a light sand.
- Sand and spot prime all bare patches or where the factory primer has been damaged.
- Sand smooth and spot prime all filled areas 
- Fill all nail holes with an exterior grade wood filler and seal all notches, end cuts and nail holes with a suitable primer/undercoat   or end sealing product such as Envira Fast Dry End Seal.

It is the painter’s responsibility to ensure all surfaces are correctly prepared prior to painting including ensuring that the primer is well-adhered to the timber substrate and that all surfaces are in a suitable condition before top coating.

It is recommended that at a minimum the top lap of the boards are coated with top coat approximately 50mm down from the top edge. This will eliminate a primer line showing if the boards move with the seasonal change that can occur. Ideally the boards would receive a full top coat before installation.

Use only a premium quality house paint that has a Light Reflective Value (LRV) of 45 or higher and a gloss level of 10 per cent or more. Note: The higher the gloss level, the higher the durability. Timber is a natural product and resin is a natural constituent of all timber. Timber painted in dark colours (LRV less than 45) may produce resin bleed. 

For darker colours, Resene recommends CoolColours™ for use on Envira Weatherboard System that have a total solar reflectance (TSR) rating of 40% or more (TSR rating only applies to cool colours).
‍Download booklet of ideal paint colours for timber weatherboards.

All preparation and painting must be carried out in a good tradesman-like manner and to the current requirements of AS/NZS 2311 Guide to Painting of buildings and the paint manufacturer’s data sheet. 

‍Two top coats of quality house paint should be applied within six weeks of the product being installed. If painting does not occur within six weeks of installation, sanding and repriming will be required.

‍Paint must be applied with the necessary equipment and experience under the appropriate environmental conditions to ensure that the potential of the paint system is maximised.

Total film build, including primer should exceed 100 Dry Micron.

Do not top coat Envira timber products that have moisture-related dimensional swelling. This will help avoid shrinkage lines that may occur in the top coat as the timber returns to its equilibrium moisture content and manufactured dimensions. 

All painted exterior surfaces should be washed at least once a year — do not use a water blaster. Up to 10 years can be expected before a repaint is required, however, this will depend on the colour, type and quality of the top coat and the preparation of the surface prior to applying the first top coats.

To ensure timber products achieve the durability and long life you expect, it is essential that a protective paint system is maintained in good condition and not allowed to deteriorate. Visit the 'Caring for your paint' page on the Resene website for additional advice: www.resene.co.nz/homeown/problem-solver/caring-for-your-paint-finish.htm

All new buildings will ‘settle’ and during this process the integrity of the paint system, no matter what type of substrate it has been applied to, may be compromised resulting in minor touch up work being required. If re-priming is necessary, use only a premium quality primer and the original top coat paint for touch up work.

Like washing your car, cleaning your house will help it maintain its good looks for much longer. Airborne contaminants, including salt deposits, which settle on your paint film, can attack the surface and cause premature breakdown. Annual washing of your home will help maintain the fresh appearance of your paintwork.

The presence of moss, mould and lichen will hold moisture on the surface longer, promoting further growth of these organisms and increasing the risk of damage to the coating and substrate. As with any painted surface, regular inspection and immediate repairs to areas of flaking or cracked paint are essential and will stop the entry of moisture into the substrate.

Particular attention should be paid to areas of high weathertightness risk such as around windows and doors, checking that flashings and sealants are in good condition and performing as required. Repair immediately if the building weathertightness has been compromised.