Do you want your home to look better and last longer? A fresh coat of paint can make that happen. Making sure the exterior paint and caulking is in tip top shape is the best way to protect your home from the elements. You can also do a lot for the curb appeal of your home with a fresh coat of paint. This is great news if you’re planning to sell. It’s time to repaint the exterior of your home when you notice cracking, blistering, and peeling. If you neglect repainting it can lead to issues that will not only be more extensive, but expensive too.
Exterior Paint Preparation & Painting Tips
- Exterior Paint Options. It can be overwhelming to stand in the paint section of your local hardware store. All you really need to know is that there are basically two types of exterior paint: water-based latex and oil-based alkyd. Latex paints clean up well, have low odor and dry quickly. These paints will last longer and are less likely to crack because it stays flexible. Alkyd paints will require paint thinners for cleanup. It is more durable, stain resistant and it flows more smoothly which means there will be less brush strokes. However, alkyds dry very slowly and have a powerful solvent smell. You will have to weigh the options when you decide which paint to go with.
- Exterior Painting Prices. Manufacturers provide you with a wide variety of paints that range from good to better to best. You should set a budget for your project and then buy the best paint you can afford because cost is a good way of determining quality of paint. You will get thicker paint that lasts longer and protects better if you spend more money.
- Read Paint Labels. If you want great results, then read the labels. Most homeowners don’t, but they should. There will be instructions about prepping the surface and what the ideal temperature to paint is. Most paint labels will tell you not to apply paint when temperatures are below 50 degrees F. However, there are paints that can be applied when temperatures are as low as 35 degrees F. so read the label before you start!
- Paint Prep Work. Paint surfaces need to be prepped correctly for paint to adhere properly. Surfaces should be cleaned with a power sprayer but can be scrubbed with a stiff-bristle brush, it will just take you longer. Tap any nail heads in with a hammer. Fill in any holes with exterior-grade putty and sand it flush once its cured. If you need to use caulking around windows and doors make sure it’s paintable.
- Painting Tools. The best way to apply exterior paint is to use a paintbrush and a roller. Use a paint brush on narrow surfaces, edges, and smaller areas followed by a small-diameter roller to paint large and long surfaces like siding and trim.
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The way your home is painted conveys your pride in your home and helps define its personality. These tips are important is you’re planning to paint yourself or hire professionals. Contact L.W. Winslow Painting, Inc. if you decide to go with the pros.