There’s nothing quite like a summer spruce-up outdoors. Whether you’re reviving a tired bench, freshening up the fence or adding a splash of colour to your front door, a quick makeover can completely transform your outside space.
With Frenchic’s Al Fresco Range, you’re all set for a professional-quality finish that stands up to the elements. Our specialist paint is weatherproof, UV-resistant and self-priming – meaning fewer steps and less faff.
But even with such a fabulous formula, a little preparation goes a long way. Read on for your outdoor painting toolkit – including simple tips to help you get the best results from your garden DIY.
Keep an eye on the weather
British summertime is famously unpredictable. While a warm, dry day is ideal for painting, it’s always best to check the forecast before you pick up your brush. Rain during or shortly after painting can affect how well the paint adheres and cures – leading to patchy or uneven results.
Try to choose a stretch of dry weather with mild temperatures. A light breeze is helpful, but avoid painting if it’s too windy or humid. And remember – it’s not just about rain. Too much sun can also impact your project.
Stay cool in the shade
A sunny day might feel perfect for painting, but direct sunlight can actually cause the paint to dry too quickly. This can affect the finish, making it harder to get an even coat – and can even lead to cracking or peeling over time.
Related reading: What Weather & Conditions Are OK for Painting?
If possible, work in the shade or create your own with a parasol or awning. Not only will this help the paint perform at its best, it’ll keep you cooler and more comfortable while you work.
Tip: Plan your painting session around the sun’s movement – start on the side of your garden that’s shaded in the morning, and move with the light.
Prep your surface properly
Frenchic’s Al Fresco paint is designed to adhere beautifully to a wide range of outdoor surfaces – from wood and stone to terracotta and even uPVC. But to get the best bond, your surface needs to be clean, dry and sound.
If you’re painting porous materials like wood, concrete or terracotta, be sure they’re thoroughly dry before you begin. Moisture trapped beneath the paint can cause issues down the line. If you’ve had a damp spell, it’s worth waiting a few extra days to let things dry out fully.
Give everything a good clean with Sugar Soap to remove dirt, algae or loose debris. For glossy or previously painted surfaces, a light scuff-sand can help the paint grip even better.
Protect your space
It might be tempting to skip the dust sheets outside, but it’s still worth taking a few precautions. Al Fresco paint is seriously tough and weather-resistant – which means any drips or splashes could become a permanent part of your patio if you’re not careful.
Lay down protective sheets under furniture, doors or fences, and use masking tape for clean edges and a professional finish. A few extra minutes of prep can save hours of clean-up later on.
Let the paint do the hard work
Our Al Fresco Range is designed to make life easier. It’s self-priming and self-sealing, so there’s no need for undercoats or separate sealants. Just give your surface the right prep, and off you go!
The finish is beautifully matte, with excellent coverage and minimal brush marks – thanks to its self-levelling formula. And with a palette of timeless neutrals, heritage shades and bold brights (plus exciting Limited Editions), there’s a colour for every corner of your outdoor space.
Whether you’re painting garden furniture, sheds, planters or even front doors, you’ll get a durable, fade-resistant finish that stands up to sun, wind and rain – and looks gorgeous all year round.
Your garden transformation starts here
With the right prep, a little planning and the perfect paint, giving your outdoor space a refresh is easier than ever. So why wait?
Visit your local Frenchic stockist to browse our Al Fresco range in person. With self-priming paints, weatherproof finishes and a rainbow of stunning colours, it’s everything you need to bring your garden ideas to life – with confidence and ease.
