The key to a successful exterior paint job is proper prep.
These step-by-step instructions will show you how to paint your house effectively and efficiently.
See how to paint the exterior of your house with these steps.
Credit: Brian McWeeney
Once you’ve decided on a color family, select thespecific exterior paint colorsyou want for each surface.
Test out colors, just like you do for interior paint jobs.
Observe how the colors look during different times of the day.
Also, observe the color on all sides of your home.
A color that looks perfect in a shaded spot might look different on a sunnier wall.
Painting your home is an investment of time and money.
For a project that pays off, choose high-quality paint that will last and stand up to the elements.
Allow the bleach to remain on the surface for 10-20 minutes to kill the mildew.
Lead paint can become a hazard when disturbed during scraping and painting.
Test kits (available at home improvement stores) can detect the presence of lead.
If your home harbors lead paint, consult theEnvironmental Protection Agency’s guidelinesand call on an expert.
Check the Weather
Consult the weather forecastbefore diving into your paint project, too.
Gather Equipment
Equip yourself withadequate and safe equipmentfor reaching high spots on your home’s exterior.
Use a ladder or scaffolding designed to stand securely against a house.
Primer not only helps the paint adhere better to the surface, but it also works as a protectant.
Primers can also be tinted for better color coverage.
“If you don’t have a sprayer, consider renting one.
This will make your job significantly easier and produce a better result,” says Nolan.
Use a respirator and other safety equipment the sprayer manufacturer recommends.
Nolan recommends back-brushing for wood surfaces and back-rolling for cementitious surfaces.
Plan to apply two coats of paint, which will also help promote even coverage.
