Think all exterior paints do the same thing? Think again. When it comes to rendered walls, choosing a coating designed for the surface can make all the difference.
It’s all too common for rendered walls to develop hairline cracks over time as your home shifts and moves slightly. You might think slapping on another coat of exterior paint will resolve this issue, but all you’ll do is kick the can down the road.
Dulux Acratex AcraShield is designed to do more than simply add a fresh coat of colour. Its flexible, high-build finish helps create a protective membrane over the surface, making it a great option for refreshing and protecting rendered exterior walls.
If it’s a product you haven’t used before, here’s what you need to know.
Why do rendered walls develop hairline cracks?
Homes can move over time and as the surface moves, coatings can crack. On rendered walls, this can show up as fine or hairline cracks across the surface.
The flexibility of Dulux Acratex AcraShield helps build a membrane over the render and provides enhanced crack-bridging performance. That makes it particularly useful when you want a finish that does more than a standard decorative exterior paint.
What is Dulux Acratex AcraShield?
Dulux Acratex AcraShield Advance is a high-build, elastomeric performance coating designed as a finishing barrier coat for Dulux Acratex Texture and anti-carbonation systems.
Despite its high-build performance, it creates a paint-like appearance, so you can achieve a refreshed finish while adding an extra layer of protection to the wall.
What are the benefits of using AcraShield on render?
One of the big differences is its film build. Dulux Acratex AcraShield creates a film build three times thicker than standard decorative paint.
That high-build, flexible finish provides enhanced crack-bridging performance while also helping to protect the surface.
For exterior rendered walls exposed to the elements, Dulux Acratex AcraShield can also help reduce dirt accumulation and improve surface washability, helping your exterior stay cleaner-looking for longer.
So, rather than simply changing the colour of your rendered wall, you’re applying a finishing coat designed to help protect the surface too.
Can you use Dulux AcraShield over existing paint?
Short answer, yes you can. Previously painted surfaces and texture coatings are among the suitable surfaces for Dulux Acratex AcraShield.
However, not every rendered wall is the same. The right coating system will depend on the existing substrate and the finish you’re working with, so make sure you check with your local Inspirations Paint store before starting your exterior project.
How do you apply Dulux AcraShield?
Thoroughly mix the Dulux Acratex AcraShield before rolling, brushing or spraying your exterior surface. When rolling, we recommend a 10–20mm nap roller. The exact nap length will be determined by the surface you’re painting.
Check out our guide to choosing the right roller here.
Expert Tip - If you’re brushing and rolling, both should be done at the same time to help avoid picture framing, where the cut-in areas around the edges of the wall can appear different from the rolled areas.
Apply at least 2 coats of AcraShield, allowing 2 hours drying time between coats
When your rendered exterior needs a refresh, it’s worth thinking beyond colour alone.
The high-build, flexible properties of Dulux Acratex AcraShield Advance help provide enhanced crack bridging while creating a protective finishing barrier over the surface. It can also help reduce dirt accumulation and keep the surface looking cleaner for longer.
Head to your local Inspirations Paint store to see how Dulux Acratex AcraShield can breathe new life into your exterior.