This charming Grade II listed cottage has been sympathetically renovated by owner, Martin Skiggs. Following consultation with the local conservation office, Martin commenced works using Mapei’s Silancolor Plus paint system.
Located in rural Essex, the period property includes three separate wings: a two-storey section which was originally a pair of labourers’ cottages, a rear extension constructed in the 18th Century and a single storey, believed to have been built as a cart lodge in the Victorian era. Both the two-storey building and rear extension are oak framed with a rough cast lime render. The single storey section is red brick with a multi-textured cementitious pebble-dashed render.
External works included the stripping back of over 4mm of masonry paint. This was carried out professionally using a paint softener and high-pressure steam. Homeowner - and a Chartered Building Surveyor - Martin then primed and painted the exterior using Silancolor Primer Plus – a highly protective siloxane, mildew and mould-resistant primer - and Silancolor Plus Paint. The primer was spray applied and Martin then applied two-coats of paint by brush. Silancolor Plus Paint has a highly vapour permeable and water repellent formula that combines the benefits of a traditional mineral paint and modern synthetic product. It can be used outside and indoors and is offered in a vast range of colours obtained using Mapei’s ColorMap® automatic tinting system. A peachy shade was chosen for the Cottage, to create a warm aesthetic and complement the original features.
“I have some qualifications in painting and followed the very helpful advice provided by Stephen Price at Mapei. The Silancolor application was very easy and it looks great. We’ve had loads of positive comments!” Martin explained.
Following the masonry refurbishment, woodwork was stripped back to bare timber and repainted with Brouns & Co Linseed Oil Paint. Doors were treated with Brouns & Co linseed based Nourish Wood Oil.
“Linseed oil paint has a long-life expectancy, particularly on wood, and the Silancolor does too, which is why we chose it. “I’m not getting any younger and was looking for a robust finish which I would not have to reapply every few years. Mapei’s technical team pointed me towards the Silancolor Plus to meet this requirement for a long-lasting finish. I accept I will have to repaint the black plinth periodically as it will get damaged, and the oil will have to be reapplied to the doors, but I should be able to manage both in an afternoon,” Martin added.
