3 Helpful Exterior Painting Tips For Homeowners

The wear and tear that your home’s exterior faces can take a toll, eventually dulling its vibrant appearance. Exterior painting is more than just a cosmetic fix; it’s a vital step in preserving the integrity and value of your property. But when it comes to refreshing your home’s look, where do you start?

Inside this blog:

• Factors to consider before painting
• Essential tools and materials
• Paint job maintenance tips

This guide is your roadmap to a successful exterior house painting project. Read on to discover more.

Factors to Consider Before Painting

Before you decide on color palettes, some factors need to be on your radar. Those factors include:

Weather Conditions

The weather isn’t just an idle conversational topic; it’s a critical aspect that can make or break your exterior painting project. Extreme temperatures, high humidity, and direct sunlight can affect the application and drying of paint, potentially leading to suboptimal results. It’s best to plan your project during a stretch of moderate weather to achieve the best finish and durability.

Paint Type and Color

Choosing the right type of paint for your home’s exterior is pivotal. Opt for high-quality, weather-resistant paints that can withstand harsh elements. Furthermore, consider the color’s longevity. Neutral tones often have more staying power and can increase the marketability of your home if you’re considering a future sale.

Budgeting and Timeline

Your budget should not only encompass exterior painting costs but all necessary tools. Some exterior painting projects may require more extensive prep work, adding to your total costs. Also, plan your timeline around the weather and any upcoming events that could disrupt the process.

Preparing Your Home for Painting

Before the painting process begins, you must prepare. Here’s how:

Surface Inspection and Repair

Before breaking out the brushes, meticulously examine your home’s exterior for any damage that needs addressing. Cracks, rot, or mildew should be dealt with to prevent further deterioration. Don’t skip this step – a solid repairing job ensures that the new paint adheres correctly and provides long-lasting protection.

Cleaning and Priming Techniques

Thoroughly cleaning your home’s exterior is a non-negotiable step. Power washing is a common method, but be cautious not to apply too much pressure, as it can damage surfaces. Once clean, priming is essential for adhesion, especially on bare wood or when transitioning between paint types. High-quality primers act as a bond between the surface and the new paint, creating a durable and even finish.

Essential Tools and Materials

To properly paint the exterior of your home, these tools are needed:

1. Paint

Invest in paint that’s specifically formulated for exteriors. These paints offer better resilience against the elements and often include built-in UV protection. Know the square footage of the areas that’ll be painted to calculate the amount of paint required accurately.

2. Brushes, Rollers, and Extenders

You’ll need a variety of paintbrushes and rollers of different sizes to tackle the various surfaces and details of your home. Extenders can be particularly handy for hard-to-reach areas, reducing the need for ladders and the associated safety risks.

3. Ladders and Scaffolding

Speaking of ladders, they’re crucial for any painting project. Consider the height and accessibility of your home when deciding whether standard ladders will suffice, or if you need to rent scaffolding for larger or more challenging areas.

4. Safety Gear

High on the list of essentials but often forgotten is safety gear. This includes gloves, masks, eyewear, and protective clothing. Safety should always be a priority, especially when working at heights or with hazardous materials.

3 Helpful Exterior Painting Tips For Homeowners

If you’re not sure how to do an exterior paint job, here are the basics:

1. Paint from the bottom to top

For the best results, start from the top and work your way down. That way, any drips or spills won’t ruin your freshly painted surfaces. Apply paint generously, but not too thickly, and remember to work in the shade whenever possible to avoid paint drying too quickly and leaving brush marks.

2. Use Surface-Specific Techniques

Different materials require different painting techniques. Wood, for example, may need more coats for even coverage, while stucco surfaces can handle slightly thicker applications. Research the best practices for the material of your home’s exterior to ensure a professional-quality finish.

3. Follow Safety Guidelines

Follow recommended safety guidelines for using ladders and power tools. Use a stabilizer bar on the ladder to prevent damage to the painted surface, and never overreach. If using scaffolding, ensure it’s properly assembled and anchored to avoid accidents.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

To ensure that things go smoothly, remember these common issues:

Peeling and Blistering

Peeling and blistering are often caused by moisture problems or inadequate surface preparation. To fix it, strip the affected area, allow it to dry thoroughly, and reapply the paint following proper prep and dry times.

Fading and Chalking

Fading and chalking appear as a dull, powdery film on the surface and are a result of UV exposure. The solution is often as simple as refreshing with a new coat of quality paint with UV protection.

Mildew and Mold

Mildew and mold can be persistent issues, especially in moist climates. Once you’ve cleaned the surface, use a mildew-resistant primer and paint to deter future growth.

Maintenance Tips to Prolong the Lifespan of Your Paint Job

Keep your home looking good with these maintenance tips:

Regular Inspection

Set a routine for periodically inspecting your home’s exterior. Look for signs of wear, peeling, or damage, and address them quickly to prevent more extensive maintenance and potential damage.

Seasonal Touch-Ups

Consider touching up your paint job every few years, especially on areas that face the brunt of the weather, such as north-facing walls. They receive less sun, and therefore, hold onto moisture longer.

Proper Exterior Care

Strategic landscaping can protect your exterior. Keep trees and bushes trimmed to prevent scratches and minimize dirt and moisture. Also, ensure that sprinklers are not regularly hitting your home’s siding or trim.

We Provide Expert Paint Jobs

Ready to transform the look of your home’s exterior? The team at Boss Exteriors is here to help. Our experts can guide you through the painting process and provide professional, reliable painting services. Contact us for an evaluation, and let’s take the first step in making your house the envy of the neighborhood!