7 Steps for you exterior painting
Step 1: Pressure Wash
- To ensure the best coverage, remove dirt and dust buildup from around the house with a pressure washer.
Step 2: Repair Damaged Surfaces
- Walk around the entire perimeter of the house repairing all damaged surfaces such as: wood, masonry, metal, siding or stucco. Apply epoxy filler to cracks.
Step 3: Remove Old Paint
- Once the exterior is dry, walk around the house removing any loose or peeling paint.
Step 4: Caulking Setting
- Fill cracks in trim around doors and windows with exterior caulking.
Step 5: Mask Doors, Windows, and Lights
- Cover doors, windows, light fixtures, and security cameras with plastic sheeting and painter’s tape.
Step 6: Paint the Exterior
- Depending on the intensity of the hue, apply one or two coats of exterior matte or eggshell paint to the entire house.
Step 7: Finishing Touches
- The final step is to paint the doors, fascia, trim, windows, gutters and other decorative details.
Frequent Questions about exterior paint services
Do I need to prime the exterior of my house before painting?
It is generally recommended to prime the exterior of a house before painting, especially if the surface is bare wood or if the existing paint is in poor condition. Priming helps to seal the surface and create a uniform base for the paint to adhere to, which can improve the final appearance of the paint job and increase its durability.
It can also help to cover up imperfections in the surface and prevent the paint from soaking into the wood, which can save time and reduce the number of coats of paint that are needed. In some cases, it may not be necessary to prime the exterior of a house if the surface is already in good condition and has been previously painted with a high-quality paint. In these cases, you can usually just clean the surface and apply a topcoat of paint.
What paint last longest outside?
There are several types of paint that are suitable for use on the exterior of a house and can provide long-lasting durability. The best paint for your specific needs will depend on the condition of the surface you are painting, the type of material it is made of, and the climate in which you live.
Some of the types of paint that are known for their durability and long-lasting performance on the exterior of a house include:
Acrylic latex paint: This type of paint is water-based and is known for its ability to resist fading, peeling, and chalking. It is also resistant to mildew and can be easily cleaned with soap and water.
Alkyd (oil-based) paint: This type of paint is known for its durability and resistance to cracking and peeling. It is also resistant to mildew, but it can be more difficult to clean and has a longer drying time than acrylic latex paint.
Exterior-grade enamel paint: This type of paint is known for its high-gloss finish and durability. It is resistant to fading, peeling, and chalking, and it is also easy to clean.
Elastomeric paint: This type of paint is a specialized type of acrylic paint that is highly elastic and is designed to expand and contract with the movement of the surface it is applied to. It is often used on surfaces that are prone to movement or expansion, such as stucco or concrete, and is known for its durability and resistance to fading and peeling.
In general, it is best to choose a paint that is specifically formulated for exterior use and that is appropriate for the surface you are painting. It is also a good idea to choose a paint that has a high-quality finish and is resistant to fading, peeling, and chalking.
Can I just paint over old paint?
In most cases, you can paint over old paint, as long as the surface is in good condition and the existing paint is not peeling or flaking. However, there are a few steps you should take to ensure that the new paint adheres properly and looks its best:
Prepare the surface: Before you start painting, make sure the surface is clean, dry, and smooth. If the old paint is in good condition, you can usually just clean the surface and sand any rough or uneven areas. If the old paint is peeling or flaking, you will need to remove it before painting.
Prime the surface: Depending on the condition of the old paint and the type of new paint you are using, you may need to prime the surface before painting. Priming helps to create a uniform base for the new paint to adhere to and can help to improve the final appearance of the paint job.
Use a high-quality paint: Choose a paint that is specifically formulated for the surface you are painting and that is appropriate for the conditions in which the paint will be exposed. Higher-quality paints tend to have better coverage and durability, which can save you time and money in the long run.
If you are painting over a dark-colored paint with a light-colored paint, you may need to apply multiple coats of paint to achieve good coverage. It is also a good idea to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for drying times and apply the paint according to the instructions on the label.
Is 2 coats of exterior paint necessary?
In most cases, two coats of paint are recommended for the exterior of a house. A single coat of paint may not provide sufficient coverage, especially if the surface is uneven or if the paint color is significantly different from the existing color. Two coats of paint can help to ensure that the surface is evenly covered and that the final appearance of the paint job is smooth and uniform.
That being said, the number of coats of paint that are necessary will depend on the condition of the surface you are painting, the type of paint you are using, and the desired finish. If the surface is in good condition and has been previously painted with a high-quality paint, you may be able to get away with just one coat of paint. However, if the surface is bare wood or if the existing paint is in poor condition, you may need to apply more coats to achieve good coverage and a smooth finish.
It is always a good idea to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the number of coats of paint that are needed and to allow the paint to dry completely between coats. Applying multiple thin coats of paint is usually better than trying to apply a single thick coat, as it can help to prevent drips and sags and improve the final appearance of the paint job.
How long does exterior paint need to dry before rain?
The amount of time that exterior paint needs to dry before it is exposed to rain will depend on the type of paint you are using, the humidity and temperature of the air, and the conditions of the surface you are painting. In general, most exterior paints will take at least several hours to dry to the touch and will need at least 24 hours to dry completely.
If you are using an oil-based paint, it may take longer to dry than a water-based paint. Oil-based paints can take up to 24 hours to dry completely, depending on the humidity and temperature. Water-based paints, on the other hand, can dry to the touch in as little as an hour or two and can be fully dry in as little as six to eight hours, depending on the conditions.
It is generally recommended to avoid exposing freshly painted surfaces to rain for at least 24 hours after painting, if possible. This will give the paint enough time to dry and cure, which can help to improve the final appearance of the paint job and increase its durability. If you are unable to avoid exposing the paint to rain, you can try to protect the painted surface with a tarp or plastic sheeting until it has had a chance to dry.