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How long should new plaster dry before painting?
New plaster needs time to cure and dry out - often around four weeks in good weather. Paint too early and the alkaline plaster can cause the paint to fail. Prime with an alkali-resistant plaster primer before applying the top coats.
How do I stop damp on inside walls?
First find the cause: rising damp (no or broken damp-proof course), water coming through the wall from outside, leaking plumbing, or condensation from poor ventilation. Fix the source, let the wall dry, then use a suitable damp-proofing treatment and paint system. Painting over damp alone will not solve it.
Which paint should I use outside?
Use a quality exterior acrylic (water-based) paint for walls; it lets moisture escape and copes with sun and rain. For timber, use a suitable exterior varnish, sealer or enamel, and for metal use a rust-inhibiting primer first. Prepare surfaces properly - most paint failures come from poor preparation.
How do I waterproof a flat roof or a parapet wall?
Clean the surface, repair cracks, prime it, and apply a waterproofing system (liquid membrane with reinforcing fabric, or torch-on membrane) - paying special attention to joints, corners and drains. Re-inspect it every year, as most leaks start where the membrane has cracked or lifted.
What is the best way to fix cracks in walls?
Hairline cracks in plaster can be filled with a flexible crack filler and painted. Wider cracks, cracks that keep growing, or cracks that run diagonally from windows and doors may point to foundation or structural movement and should be checked by a professional before you repair them.
How do I treat wood borer (beetle) in roof timber?
Wood borer is common in older Western Cape homes and a beetle certificate is often needed when you sell. Look for small holes and fine dust on the timber. Infested timber can be treated with an approved timber insecticide or, if badly damaged, replaced with treated timber; a pest control company can issue the certificate.