Are you currently thinking about giving your home a facelift? Well, there are a few things to take into notice that have the power to make a bigger impact than a fresh coat of paint. It has been essential to know that exterior painting isn’t just about looks, but it also protects your home from rain, wind, sun, and everything in between. Plus, it does play a part in instantly boosting curb appeal and resale value.
That is where companies like Trade Medics come in to help you. It does not matter if you’re planning to DIY or hire professionals. These steps are involved in every paint process. Furthermore, there is a lot that goes into painting the outside of a home, and knowing what to expect can help you save time, money, and stress.
Why Exterior Painting Matters
The paint tends to fade, cracks start forming, and the process of peeling also get started over the passage of time. This doesn’t just make your home look older, but it also exposes siding to damage from moisture, pests, and harsh weather. A fresh coat of painting works like a shield in this situation that will help in protecting your home while keeping it attractive at the same time. You just need to think of it as sunscreen for your house, which means it is a defense plus beauty in one step.
Step 1: Check the Weather
It is always wise to look at the forecast before grabbing the paint supplies. The paint doesn’t love extreme temperatures or humidity, so we should always look out for a sweet spot. Temperatures from 50°F to 85°F with dry conditions can be considered as ideal. That’s why spring and early fall are often the best times for painting across most of the U.S.
Step 2: Prep the Surface
Here we are dropping the secret as most of the hard work in exterior painting isn’t in the painting itself, but in the prep. There are high chance that skipping this step almost guarantees your paint won’t last.
- Wash the surface thoroughly: It is recommended to use a pressure washer to remove dirt, dust, and mildew.
- Scrape and sand the surface: It is always advisable to strip away loose or peeling paint and smooth the rough areas.
- Repair damage: It is needed to fix the rotted wood, replace cracked siding, and re-caulk gaps.
- Protect surroundings: Last but not least, always cover the plants, patios, and windows with the drop cloths.
A properly prepped surface has the ability to make the difference between a paint job that lasts 2 years versus 10.
Step 3: Prime Before Painting
The step of putting on a primer isn’t always necessary, but it’s often a game changer. It does help new paint adhere better and provides a smoother finish. The following are the situations that require the use of a primer:
- You’re painting bare wood or raw siding.
- You’re changing from a dark color to a much lighter one
- The existing paint is in poor condition
Step 4: Choose the Right Paint
The Paints usually have categories as per their usage. The exterior of the house does require strong formulation of paint. Latex paint is flexible as it is quick to dry, and easy to clean which ends up making it a great choice for most siding. On the other hand, oil-based paint is tougher and ideal for trim or moisture-prone areas but it takes longer to dry.
Step 5: Always pick the Right Tools
You might need a mix of tools for exterior painting as per the requirements of your home. There are tools designed in order to make the procedure of paint easier.
Step 6: Apply the Paint
Painting can be the fun part, but technique matters the most in this. It is suggested that one should start at the top and work down to catch drips and then apply two coats for better coverage and protection. You need to pay attention if it’s facing direct sunlight otherwise the paint will dry too fast.
Step 7: Details are equally important
Never ignore the trim, shutters, gutters, and especially your front door as they deserve attention too . A pop of color on the door might end up completely transforming your home’s first impression.
Common mistakes to avoid
You need to be a little careful and don’t paint over dirt or damp siding in order to avoid further headaches. You might skip primer when it’s needed. The idea of painting in bad weather is another big mistake as it will prolong the drying process. You should never forget that even small shortcuts like these can quickly shorten the life of your exterior painting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How often should I repaint my home’s exterior?
It has been noticed that most homes need exterior painting every 7–10 years, though wood siding may require more frequent updates.
2. What is the best time of year for exterior painting?
The best time of year for exterior painting is Spring and early fall as they offer mild temperatures and low humidity.
3. Do I need to pressure wash before painting?
Yes, cleaning does ensure paint adheres properly and prevents peeling.
4. Is it better to hire professionals or DIY?
DIY saves money upfront, but professionals are more likely to deliver faster, longer-lasting results with fewer mistakes.
5. How long does a professional exterior painting job take?
On average, it does usually take 3–7 days for a medium-sized home which is totally subjective on the weather and prep work needed.