How can I finish an outdoor plastic-covered structure?

[Subechya]

Hi,

This is my first time here, so apologies if something doesn’t make sense, but I’m looking for advice.

The structure is made of wood with a plastic top layer as the visible surface(imagine a vertictal rectangle/sorta looks like a mini house structure), and right now it looks unfinished, hence I am hoping to upgrade it somehow. I first thought of wallpaper, however, as it’s outdoors and exposed to all kinds of weather, that may not be the best option...

I was wondering whether painting be the best way to finish it, or are there other options I should consider for a more durable result? And If painting is the best option, what steps would be required, and what materials or tools would I need? I've looked into it and it seems like I need a primer for plastic so far, I've looked at a few options, in which I thought the 'Spray Paint Dulux 300G Plastic Primer' might be the best option? Alongside an exterior paint (Dulux 4L Exterior Paint Rapid Finish Low Sheen Extra Bright), I’m not sure if there’s a specific type of paint suitable for plastics, and I’m also unsure what would work best for a sealant, so I’d appreciate any suggestions

Thanks all! 

[EricL]

Hello @Subechya 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about your plastic covered structure.

Your choice for paint is spot on and would have been my recommendation (please make sure to consult the paint specialist on colour). But in order to give our members a better idea of your structure, would it be possible for you to post a picture of your build. This will give us a better idea of its materials, and we might be able to offer other alternatives to paint. For example, you might be able to cover the surface using 3mm Corflute White 900 x 600mm which can be screwed and glued to any plastic surface. It's waterproof and can withstand the elements.

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric

[Subechya]

Hi Eric!

Appreciate the prompt response  

Regarding the photos, I’ve attached one from when it was first installed. You can’t see it clearly in this image, as it was added later, but the front section is also covered. The plastic structure extends down from where the wood begins, acting as a partial roof. It doesn’t come all the way down—roughly about a metre—covering the interior from the top.

My main goal is to avoid a plastic-like finish and achieve a more cohesive, visually appealing look, as it currently feels somewhat unfinished. With that in mind, do you think painting it would work? Or is there a risk that it might not hold, fade, or allow the plastic to show through? I’m not sure if that’s even possible, but I’d like to understand all the potential outcomes before committing to painting. I’m also open to other suggestions, though ideally I’d like a clean, finished appearance that makes the structure look more unified.

[MitchellMc]

Hi @Subechya,

Thanks for clarifying. Just to confirm, you’ve removed the protective film from the clear polycarbonate sheets and fixed them to the structure? Polycarbonate isn’t the easiest material to paint, but it can be done if you prepare it properly. I’d suggest lightly sanding the surface with 240-grit paper to create a keyed texture, then applying primer before painting over it.

That should give you a solid, opaque finish with good adhesion and colour coverage. It’s worth keeping in mind that painted plastic can be more prone to wear over time, especially outdoors, but with the right prep, you’ll achieve a much more unified look.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell

[Subechya]

Hi Mitchell, 

Yes, we’ve completely removed the plastic film. For reference (though the image is zoomed in), this is what the sides currently look like. At the moment, the structure is made of clear polycarbonate sheets, which I’m planning to paint over.

Since the primer you attached seems to be out of stock, would the 'Dulux 340g Multi-Surface Primer Spray Paint', also from Bunnings, be a suitable alternative? Also, would you have any suggestions/recommendations for a sealant that would work best for this project?

I really appreciate your quick responses—thank you in advance!

[JacobZ]

Hi @Subechya,

You could use the Spray Paint Dulux 340G Multi-Surface Primer or this White Knight 300g White Plastic Primer Spray Paint if your local store is out of stock.

Let me know if you have further questions.

Jacob