Steps You Shouldn't Ignore When Painting Your Home's Exterior

Have you been looking for a way to improve your home's curb appeal without overspending? One of the solutions you can consider today is residential exterior painting. When you apply a fresh coat of paint on your exteriors, your home's value will increase, and you'll also protect the walls from environmental elements.

The key to a successful home exterior painting project is to prepare adequately before applying the fresh coat of paint. Here are some steps you can follow before picking up the brush to paint.

Wash the Walls 

The exterior parts of your house walls are constantly exposed to different elements, so it's easy for them to accumulate a lot of grime and dirt over the years. So, before you apply a fresh coat, you will need to clean the exterior thoroughly to remove the dirt. 

Experts recommend using a phosphate-free cleanser and water solution for the task. You may apply this on the surface with a sponge, but this will take a lot of time. A professional can finish the job in less time because they use a pressure washer.

Remove Any Loose Paint

Applying a fresh coat of paint on areas with peeling paint will not provide good results. So, ensure you eliminate all the flaking paint using a handheld scraper, infrared paint stripper, or hot air gun. However, don't be tempted to use open-flame torches because they can easily cause a fire. 

It's also illegal to use this torch in most states, so getting a permit is crucial if you want to use it. Don't forget to spray water on the paint while scraping and collecting the debris. Also, wear safety gear for maximum protection.

Sand the Rough Areas

One way to ensure you get a smooth finish after painting your exterior walls is to get rid of any rough spots. You can use sandpaper or a pad sander to clear any rough spots but don't overdo it. If you are too hard on the surface, you might leave sander marks on the surface. Consider using sanders with HEPA filters to be lead-safe.

Make the Necessary Repairs

Once you wash, scrap and sand the exterior, you will need to inspect the wall for any exposed chips or holes. Fill in the small gaps with patching putty to seal the area. Also, replace all the rotted wood panels on the home's exterior. 

A good rule of thumb is to get an expert to measure the area and replace the panels on your behalf. This way, you will avoid damaging other boards and ensure the new piece is fixed correctly. Don't forget to sand it, so it matches the other parts of the wall.

Speak to a painter to learn more before your project.