Living by the coast offers breathtaking views and fresh sea air, but it also comes with a hidden cost: continuous exposure to salt, moisture, and intense sunlight. These elements quickly degrade standard paint, leading to fading, peeling, rust, and mould growth. For coastal homeowners, regular maintenance can become an expensive and time-consuming cycle without the right protection. 

As Australia’s largest family-owned, Haymes Paint have spent nearly 90 years developing coatings that withstand the country’s toughest environments. With UV-resistant exteriors, moisture-proof interiors, and rust-preventing metal solutions, you can keep your coastal home looking fresh and well-protected for years.

Reality of Coastal Conditions: What’s Ruining Your Paint?

Salt Exposure

Salt carried by sea breezes settles on surfaces, attracting moisture that weakens paint over time. This leads to flaking, peeling, and corrosion, particularly on exterior walls, trims, and metal fixtures.

Extreme UV Radiation

Australia has some of the strongest UV exposure in the world, with paint fading up to five times faster in harsh sunlight. Low-quality exterior coatings struggle to retain their colour and strength under prolonged sun exposure.

High Humidity and Moisture

Excess moisture causes paint to bubble, peel, and foster mould growth, particularly in bathrooms, kitchens, and shaded exterior areas. Without moisture-resistant coatings, interiors can develop unsightly and unhealthy mould patches.

Wind and Sand Erosion

Coastal winds carry salt and sand particles, gradually wearing away painted surfaces. This affects not only walls and trims but also fences, outdoor furniture, and metal structures.

Without premium paint, these conditions will shorten the lifespan of your home’s finish, leading to frequent repainting and higher maintenance costs. The right paint will significantly reduce upkeep while maintaining your home’s appearance and protection.

Paints for Coastal Conditions

Selecting the right paint is the first step in protecting your coastal home from these challenges. Haymes Paint offers premium paint products designed to withstand these extreme Australian conditions.

Exterior Protection: Ultra Premium Solashield® Exterior

A long-lasting exterior finish starts with Solashield® Exterior. This advanced formula is designed for UV, salt, and weather resistance, offering unmatched durability in extreme environments. Why it works for coastal homes:

• Exceptional UV resistance prevents fading, keeping your home’s exterior vibrant.
• Salt-resistant technology stops chalking, peeling, and flaking in coastal air.
• Flexible, breathable formula allows for natural expansion and contraction in changing temperatures.

Interior Protection: Ultra Premium Expressions® Interior

Coastal interiors are prone to moisture damage, mould, and mildew. Expressions® Interior is formulated to resist these challenges while providing a durable, washable finish ideal for high-humidity areas. Why it works for coastal homes:

• Mould and mildew resistance helps prevent peeling and health hazards.
• Washable, stain-resistant finish ensures long-term durability.
• Ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and living spaces exposed to coastal humidity.

Metal Protection: MetalPlus Range

Metal structures in coastal homes are highly susceptible to rust and corrosion. The Haymes MetalPlus Range provides a complete three-step system to protect against salt exposure. How to protect metal surfaces:

1. Clean with MetalPlus Brushable Enamel Thinner – Removes contaminants to ensure strong adhesion.
2. Prime with MetalPlus Universal Primer – Creates a corrosion-resistant barrier.
3. Topcoat with MetalPlus UV Superior Enamel – Provides ultimate rust and UV protection.

Application Tips for a Long-Lasting Finish

Even the best paints need correct application for maximum durability. 

1. Remove Salt Deposits Before Painting

Salt residue prevents proper adhesion. Wash surfaces with fresh water and mild detergent before painting. For metal surfaces, use MetalPlus Brushable Enamel Thinner for thorough cleaning.

2. Always Use a Primer

Skipping primer in coastal environments leads to faster deterioration. A primer acts as a protective barrier, improving adhesion and extending the lifespan of your topcoat.

• For exteriors, use Ultracover® Undercoat.
• For metals, apply MetalPlus Universal Primer before any topcoat.

3. Apply Multiple Coats for Maximum Durability

In harsh environments, two or more coats create a thicker, more protective layer against salt, moisture, and UV exposure. Allow proper drying time between coats to prevent moisture-related issues.

By following these steps, homeowners can significantly reduce maintenance and extend the life of their paintwork.

Protect Your Coastal Home with Haymes Paint

Coastal conditions can be unforgiving, but the right paint choices will preserve your home’s beauty and structure for years.

• Solashield® Exterior keeps exteriors looking fresh despite salt and sun.
• Expressions® Interior prevents mould and damage in high-moisture spaces.
• MetalPlus Range offers superior rust and corrosion protection for metal fixtures

Don’t let salt, wind, and humidity wear down your home. Invest in the highest quality, Australian-made coatings from Haymes Paint and enjoy long-lasting protection.

Visit your local Haymes Paint stockist for more expert advice and the best paint for your coastal home.