Painting the exterior of your home is a great way to improve its appearance and curb appeal. However, it is a difficult task that requires extensive preparation, including power washing, scraping, sanding, and caulking. It is also important to use the right tools and equipment, such as ladders, sprayers, power washers, cleaning agent, scrub brushes, bleach for mildew, painters tape, rags, and drop cloths. Hiring a professional painter to do the work is often more expensive than doing it yourself, but it can save you time and money in the long run.
The price of painting the exterior of a house depends on a number of factors, such as square footage and the color of the paint. Darker colors are typically more expensive than light colors because they require more paint to achieve full coverage. In addition, the surface of the house may have varying textures, which can add to the cost.
A quality Exterior House Painter will prepare the surface before painting, which includes caulking, patching, and sanding. They will also remove any loose or chipped paint, and clean the surfaces of the house before painting. The amount of prep work needed will depend on the condition of the house, as well as whether it is surrounded by trees and shrubs or by other structures.
The order in which the painter tackles the exterior of your house is also crucial. Unless there is significant damage, such as rot or mold, the first priority should be to address any cracks or wood knots. Then, it is a good idea to caulk all gaps around windows and doors, and add a fresh coat of caulk along the surface where different materials meet.
If your house has wood trim, it is a good idea to prime it before you paint. This will help ensure that the new paint will adhere properly to the wood and that it will be long-lasting. Depending on the type of wood, you may want to choose a stain-blocking primer instead of a standard latex primer. Once the surface is prepared, it is a good idea to cover any doors, windows, and lighting fixtures with plastic sheeting. This will protect them from dust and debris that could get on them during the painting process.
Finally, you will need to apply two coats of semi-gloss exterior house paint to your home’s woodwork. Be sure to sand between each coat and use a high-quality brush to create an even finish. Once the paint is dry, you can remove the plastic sheeting and replace any hardware or fixtures that were covered. Then, your home’s exterior will be ready to enjoy for years to come!