Thinking of giving your home a fresh new look? Whether you’re painting a new property or updating the exterior of your current home in Atkinson, it’s not a job you want to take lightly. Exterior painting requires serious prep and precision to achieve lasting, high-quality results. To bring your vision to life, you’ll need more than just a paint color and some brushes. That’s why we’re breaking down essential steps to take before starting an exterior painting project.
Create a Plan
- Before starting an exterior painting project, it’s essential to plan every aspect thoroughly. Take time to assess the season; some months are more suitable for painting outdoors than others. Inspect your home’s exterior carefully and note any damage or defects that should be repaired before painting begins.
Make a checklist of painting services you may need and gather all required supplies, such as brushes, rollers, primers, and high-quality exterior paint.
Wash Exterior Walls to Prepare the Surface
- Cleaning the walls is a key step in preparing for an exterior painting job. Dirt, grease, mildew, and debris can prevent paint from sticking properly. Use a garden hose, bucket, or pressure washer to rinse the walls thoroughly.
This ensures the primer and exterior paint will adhere to a clean surface, increasing durability. If needed, hire professional exterior cleaning services for a deeper wash.
Scrape Off Peeling Paint to Avoid Future Issues
- Before applying new paint, remove all loose or peeling sections from the previous coat. Lay down drop cloths or newspapers to protect the area, then use a paint scraper to eliminate any flaking paint. This prevents bubbling or cracking once the fresh coat is applied, helping you achieve a smooth, lasting finish in your house painting project.
Smooth the Surface with Proper Sanding Tools
- After scraping off loose paint, the next step in exterior wall prep is sanding. Sanding ensures the surface is smooth and free of uneven paint layers, helping the new coat bond better. Tools like sanding blocks or electric sanders are great for this task. Sanding also improves the final look of your exterior painting by creating a uniform base.
Fix Structural Damage and Seal Exterior Gaps
- Look for cracks, dents, or rotten wood that could interfere with a clean paint job. Repair these issues before painting. Also, inspect joints, trim edges, and areas around windows or doors.
Apply caulk to seal gaps and prevent moisture or air from getting inside. This step is crucial for long-lasting exterior paint and protecting your home’s internal structure.
Painting Your Home’s Exterior the Right Way
- Now that the surface prep is done, it’s time to paint. Start from the top and work your way down to avoid streaks or paint splatter on fresh coats. Choose optimal weather conditions, avoiding direct sunlight, wind, or rain.
These exterior painting tips help ensure a smooth application and a professional result. Following the proper technique and sequence guarantees that your paint will look great and last longer.
Get Help from Exterior Painting Professionals in Atkinson
- Properly prepping your home before starting an exterior painting project is the foundation for lasting results. From surface cleaning to minor repairs and choosing the right finish, every detail matters. At Miles Makarowski Painting, we bring professional expertise and precision to every exterior painting job in Atkinson and nearby areas.
Our team ensures your surfaces are prepped correctly and painted with high-quality products for a finish that not only looks stunning but also withstands the elements.
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.