Choosing Paint - how hard can it be?

Maria Parker • 17 January 2023

Choosing the right paint is not easy.  Here's what you need to know.

Paint is an essential component of any building, and choosing the right type of paint for the exterior of your home is crucial to ensure it looks great and is protected from the elements.


In the UK, there are several types of paint available for external use in a residential setting, including:


  • acrylic paint,
  • alkyd paint,
  • masonry paint,
  • exterior wood paint,
  • metal paint, and
  • exterior wall paint.


Acrylic paint is a water-based paint that dries quickly and is suitable for most surfaces. It is a popular choice for exterior walls, as it is easy to apply, dries quickly, and is resistant to weathering.


Alkyd paint, on the other hand, is an oil-based paint that is durable and resistant to weathering. It is perfect for use on surfaces that are exposed to harsh weather conditions, such as doors, window frames, and trim.


Masonry paint is specifically designed for use on brick, stone, and concrete surfaces. This type of paint is thicker than other exterior paints and is formulated to adhere to the porous surfaces of masonry. It is available in a variety of colors and finishes and is an excellent option for homeowners who want to update the look of their home's exterior without replacing the masonry.


Exterior wood paint is available in a variety of finishes, including gloss, satin, and matte. It is used to protect wood from the elements, and it is essential to choose a paint that is specifically formulated for use on wood. It is also important to ensure the wood is clean, dry, and in good condition before applying the paint.


Metal paint is used to protect metal surfaces from rust and corrosion. It is available in a variety of colors and finishes, and it is essential to choose a paint that is specifically formulated for use on metal. Metal paint is perfect for use on metal surfaces such as metal window frames, metal doors and metal sheds.


Exterior wall paint comes in a variety of finishes including Matt, silk, and gloss and is used for decorating and protecting exterior walls. It is important to ensure the surface is clean, dry, and in good condition before applying the paint.


Special Purpose Paints


In addition to these standard types of paint, there are also a number of special-purpose paints available that are formulated for specific applications or environments. Some examples include:


self-cleaning paint,

anti-mould paint,

UV-resistant paint,

waterproof paint,

heat-reflective paint and

fire-resistant paint.


These paints contain special chemical ingredients to provide protection against specific hazards.

In conclusion, choosing the right type of paint for your home's exterior is essential to ensure it looks great and is protected from the elements. Consider the surface you are painting, the environment, and the desired finish when choosing a paint. Be sure to read the manufacturer's instructions carefully before applying the paint and always ensure the surface is clean, dry, and in good condition before painting.

Case Study – Building Without Insurance

by Niket Kapur • 20 March 2026
A homeowner commenced building works on their property without arranging appropriate site insurance. This is not uncommon. There is often an assumption that either the contractor’s insurance will be sufficient, or that an existing household policy will continue to provide cover. In this case, neither applied. Partway through the project, it became clear that there was no valid insurance in place. At that stage, the position became significantly more difficult. Insurers were unwilling to provide cover retrospectively. From their perspective, the risk had already begun without protection, and they were being asked to step into an unknown position. The property was effectively uninsured during an active construction project. We were instructed to review the situation. A structured approach was taken, including: Clearly defining the scope and stage of the works Presenting the risk in a transparent and credible way Engaging directly with specialist insurers Following extensive discussions, we were able to: Secure appropriate site insurance cover Bring the project back within an insurable and protected framework This was not straightforward. It required persistence and a clear understanding of how insurers assess risk. On a construction project, the absence of insurance is not a minor oversight. It is a significant exposure. If you are planning a build, it is worth ensuring that the right cover is in place before work begins. 

Case Study – Council Tax, Planning Delays and Structural Issues

by Niket Kapur • 20 March 2026
A homeowner commenced a significant renovation project with the intention of improving and extending their property. The project did not proceed as expected. There were delays with planning, and during the course of the works, structural issues emerged which required a reassessment of the build. Ultimately, a substantial part of the property had to be demolished mid-project. At this stage, the property was clearly uninhabitable. However, the local authority took a different view. They imposed double council tax on the basis that the property was empty, applying the standard premium used to discourage long-term vacant properties. Representations were made to explain the position. These were rejected. The authority maintained a rigid stance and would not accept that the condition of the property and the nature of the works justified relief. The charges continued to accrue. We were instructed to review the situation. A detailed and structured approach was taken, including assembling the appropriate evidence, reframing the basis of the claim, and engaging with the local authority in a more targeted way. The outcome was clear: Full council tax waiver achieved Over £10,000 recovered for the client Ongoing liability removed This is not an uncommon scenario. Local authorities will often apply standard rules without properly considering the specific circumstances of a construction project. Initial refusals are frequent, but they are not always correct. A properly prepared and presented case can materially change the outcome. Situations like this arise regularly on construction projects. Addressing them correctly can make a significant financial difference. Sunil K Radia The Building Guidance Partnership Telephone (020) 8076 3110 WhatsApp +44 7507 705376 www.theBGP.co.uk

Regulatory Compliance Oversights That Could Sink Your Construction Project

by Niket Kapur • 20 March 2026
Most homeowners focus on design, finishes and cost when undertaking a building project. Very few focus on compliance. That is where serious problems arise. This note sets out the key regulatory and risk areas that are frequently overlooked. These are not minor technicalities. They are issues that can expose you to financial loss, uninsured risk and legal liability. 1. Notifying Your Mortgage Lender If your property is subject to a mortgage, your lender has a legal charge over it. That property is their security. Most mortgage terms require you to notify the lender before carrying out structural works Some lenders require formal consent Failure to notify can place you in breach of your mortgage conditions This is often ignored. It should not be. 2. Insurance During Construction Standard household insurance is usually not valid during major renovation or structural works. Many policies specifically exclude properties under construction Continuing without appropriate cover can leave you completely exposed You should: Notify your existing insurer before works commence Arrange specialist renovation insurance where required Ensure cover includes fire, flood, theft, vandalism and public liability Do not assume you are covered. Check. 3. Contractor Insurance Is Not a Substitute Many homeowners assume the contractor’s insurance will protect them. That assumption is dangerous. You must verify: The level of cover is sufficient for the scale of the project The policy includes public liability, employer’s liability and contract works Cover extends to damage to neighbouring properties Liability includes injury to third parties, including trespassers Do not accept a certificate at face value. Review the detail. 4. VAT: Getting It Wrong Is Expensive VAT treatment in construction is complex but critical. New builds may qualify for 0 percent VAT Properties empty for two years or more may qualify for 5 percent VAT on renovation works Evidence of vacancy is essential and must be properly assembled Failure to structure this correctly can cost many thousands of pounds. 5. Council Tax on Uninhabitable Properties Where a property is genuinely uninhabitable, relief or exemption from council tax may be available. In practice: Applications are often rejected at first instance Local authorities do not always guide applicants through the correct route A structured and informed approach is required to secure the correct outcome We regularly assist clients in securing substantial savings, including backdated recoveries where appropriate. 6. Site Safety and Residual Liability Even when a contractor is in possession of the site, the homeowner can still carry risk. If someone is injured on site, including a passer-by or trespasser, liability may arise Simply appointing a contractor does not remove your exposure You should ensure: Proper site security is in place Risk assessments and method statements are being followed Insurance arrangements align with the actual risks on site This is not theoretical. Claims do arise in these circumstances. Final Thought These issues are rarely considered at the outset, yet they carry real consequences. Getting them right early avoids problems later. Contact us today so that we can review your arrangements.  Sunil K Radia The Building Guidance Partnership Telephone (020) 8076 3110 WhatsApp +44 7507 705376 www.theBGP.co.uk