How to Paint a House Exterior in Atkinson – Expert Tips
Painting the exterior of your house is a great way to boost curb appeal and protect it from the elements. For homeowners in Atkinson, the local climate presents challenges that can take a toll on paint over time. Choosing the right paint and techniques for this environment is key to ensuring a long-lasting, durable finish. If you’re looking for guidance on how to paint a house exterior in Atkinson, we have expert tips tailored to your region.
Clean the Trim and Siding
- Over time, dirt, mold, and mildew can accumulate on your home’s siding and trim. The first step is to clean the surfaces thoroughly. A pressure washer is a great tool for this task. If your home was built before 1978, it may have lead paint. Be sure to follow the EPA’s painting guidelines to ensure the safe handling of lead-based paint for your safety and that of your neighbors.
Use the pressure washer to apply a TSP (trisodium phosphate) solution or a TSP alternative cleaner to the exterior. Use light pressure to avoid damaging any surfaces. Let the cleaning solution sit for about 10 minutes before rinsing it off. For especially dirty areas or places around windows and doors, use a scrub brush for a more thorough clean. Once the entire exterior is cleaned, allow it to dry completely before proceeding.
Scrape Loose Paint
- Once the siding and trim are dry, remove any loose paint from the areas that are peeling or flaking. Use a hand scraper to remove peeling paint. For larger areas, consider renting a power scraper with a vacuum attachment. If you’re working with lead paint, use a HEPA vacuum and follow EPA safety guidelines.
Chemical strippers are another option, especially for intricate details or tight spaces like moldings. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and be cautious around plants and vegetation. To ensure the remaining paint is secure, run your fingernail along the edges of scraped areas. If no more paint lifts away, you’re ready to move on.
Sand the Surface
- With all the loose paint removed, it’s time to smooth out the edges. The goal here is to blend the scraped areas with the existing paint to create a seamless transition. Use a random orbital sander with 80-grit sandpaper to feather the edges where you removed the paint. This helps to taper the edge so that it feels smooth when you run your hand over it.
Be sure to sand all the bare wood as well. Apply your judgment to how thoroughly you sand. Less visible areas don’t need as much detail as those that are more prominent. The key is to make sure all the edges are smooth and ready for the new paint.
Repair and Reglaze
- During preparation, you might find wood that feels spongy or has extensive cracks, as well as window panes with missing glazing. Here’s how to address these issues:
Repair Rotted Wood
- Use a wire brush or a similar tool to remove all the rotted wood. Keep scraping until you reach wood that is free of moisture damage.
- Fill the affected area with an exterior-grade wood filler or a two-part epoxy kit.
- Let the filler or epoxy dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions, then sand the area smooth.
- For larger areas like window sills or trim, replace the rotted wood with new material.
Reglaze Windows
- Remove old, cracked glazing putty using a putty knife. Be careful not to break the glass.
- Reinstall any necessary glazing points.
- Apply new glazing compound following the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Give your home the professional treatment it deserves with our exterior painting services. Experience Neat, Efficient, and Professional service with Miles Makarowski Painting. Call us today at (603) 489-8802 for a complimentary estimate. We are located in Atkinson, NH.