If the paint on the exterior of your home is fading, chipping, or peeling, it’s time to think about applying a fresh coat of paint. Fresh paint gives your home added curb appeal and provides an important layer of protection from harsh elements like sun and rain.
To achieve professional-looking results, properly preparing your home’s exterior is vital. Paint adheres best to a clean, smooth surface. Although thorough preparation is time-consuming, it is well worth the time and effort.
Follow These 7 Tips for the Best Results
1. Check for Lead Paint
Before you begin any exterior work, determine whether or not you are dealing with lead paint. Common renovations, repairs, and painting activities can disturb lead-based paint and create health hazards for adults and children. If your home was built before 1978, follow the regulations and guidance from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for lead paint testing. If lead paint was used, it is highly recommended you hire a lead-safe contractor.
2. Assess the Condition of Your Siding
Take time to look over the exterior of your home and assess for any areas that need to be repaired. Replace any rotting trim around windows and doors. Inspect the base of your home and all seams where moisture tends to settle for any wood that needs to be replaced before you begin your painting project.
3. Make Any Necessary Repairs
Scrape any peeling or cracking paint using a scraper or putty knife. Start at the top of your home and work your way down. An extension ladder with a stabilizing bar will grip the house wall increasing your reach as well as help stabilize the ladder. Sand any rough areas to create a smooth surface for the new paint.
4. Clean the Siding
Paint will not adhere to a dirty or dusty surface. No matter how clean your siding looks, thoroughly clean it using a power washer. Follow the manufacturer’s directions and be careful not to damage your siding by using too much water pressure. Allow the siding to dry thoroughly.
5. Protect Landscaping and Fixtures
Protect any shrubs and plants near your home’s foundation by lightly spraying them with water. Then cover your landscaping with a protective layer of plastic. Protect outdoor electrical sockets using plastic and duct tape. Remove any attached fixtures like exterior lights, a mailbox, and shutters.
6. Don’t Skip the Primer
Applying primer is important and should not be skipped before applying exterior paint. A high-quality primer will not only give your paint a good surface to adhere to but will seal the wood, block stains, and protect against mold. Caulk needs a clean, dry surface, so apply primer before doing any caulking. Allow the primer to dry thoroughly.
7. Apply High-Quality Paint
Purchase and apply high-quality exterior paint. Choosing premium paint will give you better coverage and last longer. Using mold and mildew-resistant paint is recommended. Apply at least two coats of paint for the best results.
Should You DIY or Hire a Professional Painter?
If you have the time available to tackle painting your home yourself, you may be tempted to DIY to save some money. There are several important reasons to hire a professional painter to handle the job. Completing an exterior painting project on your own is time-consuming, and all of the tools and equipment can be expensive. It can also be dangerous work if you aren’t comfortable working at heights on ladders or scaffolding. Before you make a decision, get quotes from several licensed and insured painting contractors. You may be surprised to learn that a professional can do the job for less than you anticipate.
Trust the Local Painting Professionals
The benefits of hiring a professional painter are numerous. You’ll save time, energy, and money. You’ll also have peace of mind knowing the work was done safely and professionally. By hiring local painting professionals, you’ll benefit from their expertise and support your local community at the same time.
Mr. Mole’s Painting LLC offers a variety of interior and exterior painting services for both commercial and residential properties. We provide in-person and virtual quotes for your convenience. Contact us today at (218) 368-2560 to discuss your needs. We look forward to working with you.