Preparing Outside Wall To Paint

[bonnie&clyde]

I've taken off all loose paint, had some repointing and bricks replaced. I need to prepare the surface before I paint. Someone suggested a pva solution. My questions are 1) Is the pva solution a good idea. 2) Hie much pva to water. Any other helpful hints would be great too as I don't want to have to paint my yard walls again anytime soon

[theshedman]

After making sure that all loose is off and walls are free of dirt and grease of any sort I would just paint the bare patches first with a thinned down coat of the emulsion as a sealer. Then give 2 coats of emulsion. None of the big paint companies recommend using PVA before painting unless there is a problem to start with and for outside use there is an exterior one to use as normal PVA is for internal use. PVA can cause problems with paint making it bubble in some cases.

[KARL]

Most/all good outdoor wall paints contain compounds that ensure good adhesion. The most important aspect in your case is to ensure that the surface is clean of any dust/similar particles as well as loose paint. Arguably the best way to reach such a state is to use a pressure washer, as you will often see where high standards are being set. If there is any sign of algal growth then such areas should be treated with an algal wash (as used on patio slabs, etc.) before the pressure wash.

[bonnie&clyde]

Thank you both. I'll give it a brush down and will start painting