When boosting your house’s curb appeal and increasing its resale value, few projects have as significant an impact as an exterior paint job.
Getting it right depends on flawless prep work and application. This means sanding, scraping, and priming any surfaces you plan to repaint before applying the first drop of paint.
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Preparation
Whether painting your own house or hiring a professional, the preparation phase is critical. It’s the first step to giving your home a long-lasting paint job.
The preparation phase for pacific coat painting entails scraping, sanding, caulking, sealing gaps and cracks in the exterior, and repairing or replacing damaged wood. It also includes washing the entire home to remove any dirt or debris that might impede your painting project.
Sanding the exterior is essential because it roughens the surface so that the new paint will stick better and last longer. It’s necessary if you’re using oil-based paint.
Make sure the weather is dry and warm before starting this step of your house painting project. Rain and humidity can slow down the curing process, so keep an eye on the forecast.
Priming
Priming is the first coat of paint that creates a barrier to keep the new jacket from penetrating the underlying surface. It also helps the new paint stick to a character and makes it look smoother.
If the exterior walls of your house have been recently repainted or you are painting over a fresh coat, you may be able to skip the primer. However, the primer will be necessary to make the paint adhere properly if you are repainting over wood or bare spots stained by water or rust.
High-quality primers can help seal in odors from previous owners or pets, smoke, and strong-smelling foods. It can also prevent mildew from growing in interior walls that move moisture outward to the exterior.
Painting
When you paint your home’s exterior, you can change its appearance and increase its value. It’s one of the most cost-effective home improvement projects you can do, and it helps extend the life of your siding and trim.
Painting is also a great way to add curb appeal, which can help your house sell faster. The International House Painting Association found that well-maintained homes can fetch up to 10 percent more than comparable properties on the market.
You’ll need to ensure that the painting company you choose is licensed and insured and that they have a detailed estimate that includes time, materials, and labor costs. You can also ask them for references from past customers.
Before you begin, measure the length and height of each side of your home. This will give you a good idea of how much painting you’ll need.
Finishing
The finishing phase is crucial to ensuring your new exterior house paint will last as long as you want it to. The correct type of paint is essential based on the surface, age, and surroundings.
Satin and low-luster paints are best for exteriors, as they resist dirt pickup better than glossier finishes. They’re also ideal for painting older houses, as they can hide blemishes without looking too rough.
