10 Exterior Painting Preparation Tips to Achieve a Professional Paint Job

Will you paint the outside of your house? If this is the case, it is critical to plan ahead of time to ensure a flawless finish. This blog post will go over 10 exterior painting prep tips to help you get the best paint job possible!

Preparing for Basic Exterior Painting

 

Tip #1: Protect your plants

Cover any nearby plants or landscaping features that you don't want to get paint on with drop cloths before you begin painting. A simple tarp or drop cloth will do the trick!

Tip #2: Select the appropriate season

Exterior painting is best done in warm, dry weather. Direct sunlight should be avoided when painting because it can cause the paint to blister. Paint in the morning or evening if possible, when the sun is not as bright, especially if you are using latex paint.

Tip #3: Repair any damage that has occurred

Before you begin painting, inspect your exterior surfaces and make any necessary repairs, particularly if you're working with previously painted surfaces. The process includes filling cracks and holes, sanding rough areas, and priming bare wood siding.

Tip #4 is to clean the surface

After you've repaired any damage, thoroughly clean your exterior surfaces with a scrub brush. This will get rid of any dirt, dust, or debris that got into the paint job. Although a pressure washer is ideal for this job, a garden hose and some elbow grease will suffice! Remove any flaking paint with a power washer before applying an oil-based primer.

Tip #5: Choose the right paint

High-quality acrylic latex paint is recommended for exterior painting. This paint is durable and weather-resistant, making it ideal for protecting your home from the elements. Choose a new paint color that will blend well with the exterior of your home to make everything look more cohesive.

Tip #6: Keep an eye on your windows

Before you begin painting, cover your windows with plastic or painter's tape. This will keep paint splatters and drips at bay!

Tip #7: Prime the surface

After you've prepared the surface and chosen your paint, it's time to prime! This will improve paint adhesion and result in a smoother finish. Use an exterior primer designed for metal, wood, or masonry surfaces.

Tip #8: When painting, work in sections

When painting the exterior of your home, it is best to work in small sections. This way, you can avoid missed spots and paint drips. Begin at the top of your exterior surfaces and work your way down.

Tip #9: Use a brush or roller designed specifically for exterior painting

Use a brush or roller  designed specifically for exterior painting. This will produce the best results and help you avoid paint problems.

Tip #10: Make sure you clean up after yourself

When you're finished painting, clean up your mess! This includes removing any plastic or painter's tape from your windows as well as cleaning up any paint drips or spills.

If you follow these exterior painting prep tips, you'll be well on your way to a flawless paint job! Thank you for your consideration!

Last Thoughts

The preparation for exterior painting is critical to the overall success of your project. By taking the time to properly prepare the surface and using the right products, you can ensure a beautiful finish that will last for years. You can also check out this post to learn more about the preparation tips to help achieve a profesional paint job: https://harmonypaintingdenver.com/10-exterior-painting-prep-tips-for-a-perfect-paint-job/