Have you finally decided that it’s time to repaint your home’s exterior? This can be an exciting process, but many homeowners would prefer to get to the actual painting part of the project as quickly as possible! However, this isn’t wise – before you can begin applying that fresh coat of paint, there are several boxes you must check and actions you must take to ensure the success of your project. Here are 5 key steps you should follow as you gear up to breathe new life into your home.
1. Clean Your Walls
Your paint won’t adhere properly if your walls are dirty or dusty! You’ll want to pressure-wash your walls to ensure you have a smooth, clean surface for your new coat of paint. Aim to keep the pressure level between 1500 psi and 1800 psi; however, if there is old paint you need to remove, 2500 psi is sufficient – don’t simply repaint over this flakey, loose paint.
2. Repair Any Damaged Surfaces
After pressure-washing, be sure you’re repairing any damages that your home has. This includes cracks or chips in the foundation, broken panels or degraded siding, areas where your caulk trim has become brittle or separated, or any other areas of concern. There’s no sense in painting over these forms of damage; they will only worsen if left unaddressed!
3. Prime Your Home’s Stains
Priming is used to help treat a surface before the topcoat of paint is applied. Primer is formulated to ensure maximum adhesion – it’s a necessary step that helps to ensure your paint job lasts much longer and goes longer without fading. Note that some paints have built-in primers; always check the formula of the product you’ve chosen before getting started.
4. Protect Your Doors, Windows, & Lights
You will need to cover anything that you don’t want to get paint on, including your doors, windows, light fixtures, patios and porches, sidewalks and landscaping, outdoor furniture, and other accessories or décor. Don’t forget about things like water valves, phone and communication boxes, and even electrical meters. Remember, painting is a messy process – and it doesn’t take much effort at all to throw down some sheets and tarps and to tape things off as needed.
5. Paint Your Exterior
If you’re going to do the painting yourself, you’ll want to start from top to bottom, trying to paint in the shade if you can – direct sunlight can negatively influence your paint, and working in the shade will be more pleasant! It’s also important to note that you should paint your trim and doors last. Be sure you’re also using a roller brush to paint your home, only relying on smaller brushes to touch up any spots you may have missed and to handle your trim.
Of course, it’s also important to remember that exterior painting can be a time- and energy-consuming affair, so if you’d rather turn things over to a team of professionals, trust that they’ll handle all the necessary steps – including what might seem like a lengthy amount of necessary preparation!
About Platinum Painting of Richardson
Our team here at Platinum Painting has proudly served homeowners in Richardson and the surrounding DFW metroplex for over 15 years, and we’d be thrilled to assist you with your upcoming exterior project! If you have any questions about the blog or our services, or you’d like to get in touch with our team to set up a FREE in-home estimate, please visit us online or call today for more information. Telephone: (469) 965-1863.