The science of exterior painting – Transform your home with precision and panache
Exterior painting is an essential aspect of home upkeep, protecting your property from weather-related damage and everyday wear. A fresh application of paint can completely transform your home’s appearance. However, it is crucial to prepare the exterior surfaces before applying paint to ensure optimal and long-lasting results. Keep reading to learn how you can prepare your home for exterior painting.
Exterior Cleaning
- The accumulation of dirt, spores, and grime can inhibit paint adhesion and promote mildew growth beneath the fresh coat, making it essential to wash your home’s exterior thoroughly before painting. To effectively clean the exterior, prepare a solution of water, a phosphate-free cleanser, and a mildew killer.
Opt for hand application using a sponge, although this approach is time-consuming and involves multiple trips up and down the ladder. Alternatively, consider hiring a professional to pressure wash the siding to prevent water damage to siding materials.
Remove Loose Paint
- Remove any loose or flaking paint. A handheld scraper is typically the most effective tool for this task, although alternatives like a hot-air gun or infrared paint stripper can also be used. It’s crucial to avoid using an open-flame torch, as it poses a fire hazard and is generally illegal in most states unless you have the necessary permit.
Wear a mask and Tyvek suit during the process to adhere to lead-safe practices. Spraying water on the paint as you scrape can help minimize the spread of debris, which should be collected and disposed of properly.
Smooth Rough Spots
- Utilize a pad sander or random-orbit sander with 80-grit sandpaper to eliminate any remaining rough areas. It’s essential to apply gentle pressure to avoid creating sander marks on the wood. To ensure adherence to lead-safe practices, use sanders equipped with HEPA filters.
Patch and Restore
- Following the washing, scraping, and sanding of the exterior surfaces, assess any imperfections, such as holes, dings, or chips. For minor holes or dings, utilize a patching putty or compound to fill them in.
In cases of significant rot, it’s advisable to hire a professional to replace the affected wood. Additionally, address any drainage issues that lead to water pooling, as these can exacerbate rot problems.
Apply Primer
- White, gray, or tinted primer provides an even base for topcoats to adhere to, creating a uniform canvas. Latex primer is suitable for painting over bare wood or existing latex paint. However, if you’re painting over multiple coats of oil-based paint, it’s best to use a new coat of oil-based primer.
Choose the Right Paint
Opti for water-based acrylic latex paint is generally easier than working with oil-based paints. Latex paint:
- Applies easily
- Dries quickly
- Cleans up with soap and water
Select paint finishes carefully. Typically, the higher the sheen, the better the paint is at blocking the sun’s damaging rays. The satin finish is suitable for shingles or clapboards, while gloss paint is ideal for protecting high-traffic areas like window casings, porches, and doorframes.
Apply Top Coats
Applying more layers can lead to paint flaking off over time. Fewer coats bond better to underlying layers. Transitioning from a white house to yellow or cream may require only one coat while transitioning between light and dark colors typically necessitates two coats.
Hire Professionals for Exterior Painting
- It’s essential to hire professionals for exterior painting to ensure quality results and long-lasting protection for your home. Unlike a DIY job, professionals have the expertise, tools, and experience necessary to prepare surfaces properly, apply paint evenly, and address any issues effectively.
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.