Magnificent view of a house painted white, with a tree standing next to it, on a sunny day, in slow motion

How to Prepare the Outside of Your House for Painting

Surface prep of a house’s exterior is one of the most important steps in painting. This will ensure that the paint adheres properly to the surface and lasts for many years. Below are steps to take in order to prepare your house’s exterior for painting:

Protect Your Plants

Before beginning your project, be sure to protect any plants or landscaping near the work area. To do this, cover them with a tarp or plastic sheeting. This will prevent them from getting ruined by paint splatters or overspray.

Take Safety Precautions

Whenever you’re working with paint and other chemicals, it’s important to take safety precautions. Be sure to wear gloves, goggles and a respirator mask to protect yourself from fumes and harmful vapors. In addition, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using any products.

Remove Contaminants

Although lead paint has been outlawed since 1978, any home built before that may still have it. If you live in an older home, it’s best to have a professional test for lead paint before starting your project. Lead paint can be dangerous if not handled properly, so it’s important to take the necessary precautions.

A common contaminant, mildew, can also affect paint adhesion. To remove it, use a solution of 1 part bleach to 3 parts water and scrub the affected areas with a stiff brush. Rinse well and let the surface dry completely before painting.

Wash the Home’s Exterior

Washing your home’s exterior is an important step in surface preparation. It will remove any dirt, grime and other contaminants that may have built up on the surface. To wash the exterior of your home, use a solution of 1/4 cup liquid dish soap per gallon of water. Apply the solution to the surface with a sponge or soft bristle brush, then rinse it off with a garden hose or pressure washer.

Repair Damaged Areas

Before painting, it’s important to repair any cracks, holes or other damage to the home’s exterior. This will ensure that the paint adheres properly and looks its best. To repair damaged areas, simply fill them in with caulk or another appropriate material.

Prime the Surface

Once you’ve repaired any damage and cleaned the surface, it’s time to prime it. This will help the paint to better adhere to the surface and provide a more even appearance. Be sure to use a primer that’s appropriate for the type of paint you’ll be using. For best results, follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to apply the primer.

Choose the Right Paint

When selecting paint for your project, it’s important to choose one that’s durable and will stand up to the elements. If you’re not sure which type of paint to choose, ask a professional at your local hardware store for guidance.

With these simple steps, you’ll be on your way to successfully painting the exterior of your home. Just remember to take your time and do a thorough job for the best results. If you need help preparing the outside of your house for painting, contact a painting company in your area. They will be able to assist you with all aspects of your project, from surface prep to choosing the right paint.