With spring just around the corner it’s time to start thinking about preparing for those home improvement projects you’ve been thinking about all winter. Nothing makes the outside of your home look more refreshed than a fresh coat of paint. However, exterior painting is no simple task. Before you even crack open a can of paint, you’ll need to have all of your supplies in order and prepare your house for paint.
Follow these steps to get your home ready for a nice new paint job:
Prepare. Paint preparation itself is a dirty job, and this is even before you crack open a can of paint. You need to be prepared to tackle the job. Make sure you have clothes you don’t mind getting dirty. Also, make sure you have protective eyewear since dirt, dust, and chipped paint could easily get into your eyes during the scraping process and cause damage. Work gloves will also come in handy.
Spray Away Dirt. Paint will not adhere to your home if it’s covered in layers of dirt, grime, or dust on your painting surface. If you have wood siding, use a hose with a high water flow rather than a power washer, since power washers can drive water deep into or behind the wood, causing it to swell and your new paint will peel off.
Scrape Off Peeling Paint. With goggles, a paint scraper, putty knife, or wire brush in hand, you’ll need to scrape off any paint that is peeling away from your house. For scraping on multi-layered paint or stubborn spots, consider using a heat gun or rotary paint remover.
Sand & Repair. If there are any gouges or holes in the siding, fill them with an exterior grade patching compound, sometimes known as “plastic wood.” Edges of the areas from which you removed paint must be sanded down to help new paint cover and hide edges. Use paintable exterior caulk to seal any cracks, gaps, or seams. It is important to take your time and be meticulous around doors and windows.
Tape & Cover. Tape off any areas that you won’t be painting using painter’s tape from any local home improvement store. Place tarps down on any areas that you do not want wet paint to drip on, such as porches, bushes, and decks.
Preparing your home for an exterior paint job may seem overwhelming, but with the proper preparation, you’ll be on your way to a fresh look in no time. Of course, if you prefer to save your time and energy, bring in a professional to take care of the whole process for you.