Tips For Painting Your Home’s Exterior

Whether your home’s exterior is looking worn and outdated or you just want to freshen it up, painting can be an effective way to update the look. A paint job will last for years if you do it right, but preparation is key. Follow these tips and tricks to help you get the most out of your next home painting project.

Prepare The Surface

Before you apply a new coat of paint to the exterior of your home, it’s crucial that the surface is properly prepared. If not, the paint may not adhere properly or you may need multiple coats to achieve a desired finish. First, walk around your house and note every hole, crack or flaw you’ll need to repair. This includes holes in the siding, vent flaps, gutters and drain pipes. Once you’ve noted all the areas that need repairs, wipe them down to remove any dirt or chalky residue that could interfere with the adhesion of your new paint. This is especially important for surfaces with a high amount of water, like rain gutters and downspouts. Next, remove any loose paint and rust on wood surfaces using a sander. This will create a smoother, more even surface and help the paint adhere to the wood better.

Pick The Right Paint

There are a lot of things to consider when painting your home’s exterior. The type of paint you choose, for example, will determine how long it will last and if it will look professional. A good exterior paint will withstand weather, varying temperatures and UV light. For this reason, it’s important to select a paint with durable pigments. Choosing the right base in paint is also key. Latex and water-based paints offer excellent coverage with a flexible coating that won’t crack or peel as quickly as oil-based paints do. If you’re painting brick, vinyl siding or wood, it’s best to choose a paint formulated specifically for that surface. It will reduce cracking, blistering and peeling as well as prevent a white chalky coating from developing over time. Once you’ve selected the perfect base in paint, be sure to choose a color that will complement your home. It’s easy to get carried away when you’re shopping for paint, but always take the time to sample the colors before you commit to a purchase.

Don’t Skip The Prep Work

The prep work that goes into painting your home’s exterior can mean the difference between a good paint job and a bad one. It’s a critical part of the process that many painters neglect or rush through, and it can lead to serious long term problems for the surfaces they are working on. The first step is to thoroughly sand down the surface. This removes the old, loose paint, and allows you to see any damage that may be present. If you see any cracks or gaps in the wood, this is a great time to caulk these areas. This can prevent moisture buildup in the future. After sanding and scraping, make sure to clean off the dust that you have created. This will help the primer and paint stick better to the surface you are painting on.

Don’t Forget About The Finish

There are several different types of paint finishes available. The right one for your home depends on its specific needs. For example, if your house gets a lot of contact with dirt and dust, you might want to choose a wipeable finish for the exterior. Another option is a satin finish. It has a beautiful sheen that isn’t too shiny and can help hide imperfections. It also lays down nicely, so you won’t see brush strokes, roller edges or spray marks after it dries. The best finish for your home is one that will stand up to the elements and look great for years. That means choosing a quality exterior paint with a high sheen that’s durable, easy to clean and stands up to rain, wind and snow. To make the most of your painting project, take your time and do everything right. It will pay off in the long run, as you’ll be happy with your finished product for a long time to come.