Have you painted the exterior of your home recently? Even if the vinyl siding looks alright, it would still benefit from a fresh coat of paint. Exterior painting and the caulking and filling that accompanies it are some of the most important DIY projects. They act as the first barrier of protection against the elements, like rain, wind, and snow. When you take a closer look at the siding, you may discover more damage and flaws than you initially thought.
A new coat of paint not only offers protection to your home, but it will give it a great look that increases its curb appeal when you decide to sell.
5 Tips For Exterior Painting
Here are a few ways to make sure you get the best results from painting the outside of your home:
1. Safety First
If you anticipate needing to use a ladder for your project, it’s essential to take safety precautions. Make sure the ladder is properly angled against the wall, and secure it with rope, if possible. Even when it is tied, be sure not to lean too heavily to either side while on the ladder.
2. Surface Preparation
Surface preparation is essential for a successful paint project. Start by scraping, brushing, and/or power-washing all surfaces to remove dirt, chalky residue, and grime. Old paint surfaces can be painted over as long as they are firmly attached to the underlying surface. For holes, use exterior-grade putty and sand the area after it has cured for a smooth and even finish.
3. Use The Best Materials Possible
When painting exterior surfaces, it is important to invest in high-quality paint, as these areas are exposed to a variety of temperatures and weather conditions. Additionally, exterior painting requires tougher brushes and rollers to withstand rougher surfaces.
4. Paint From The Top Down
Begin your painting project by identifying the highest point of your home that requires painting. Once this area has been addressed, you can then move down and work on the rest of the exterior.
5. Choose The Right Times
Exterior paint jobs can be ruined by three elements: direct sunlight, wind, and low temperatures. Sunlight can cause the paint to dry too quickly, making it difficult to apply evenly. Wind can blow dust and debris onto the wet paint. Lastly, temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit can cause certain paints to not work properly.
Rossi Painting and Construction