One of the most important decisions in any home exterior painting project is selecting the right type of paint. While it may be tempting to choose the cheapest option, investing in high-quality paint will save you time and money in the long run by offering better durability and weather resistance.
Types of Exterior paint
Latex paints are the most commonly used for exterior projects. They’re environmentally friendly, quick-drying, and produce minimal odor. Latex paint is ideal for homes exposed to varying weather conditions, thanks to its excellent flexibility and resistance to cracking.
Oil-based paints offer a harder, more durable finish and are especially recommended for trims and moldings. However, they take longer to dry and have a stronger odor compared to latex paints.
Plan Your Project Around the Weather
Weather plays a critical role in exterior painting success. Painting in the wrong conditions can lead to poor adhesion, uneven drying, and premature peeling.
- For Latex Paint: Best applied when temperatures are between 50°F and 85°F.
- For Oil-Based Paint: Ideal temperatures range from 40°F to 90°F.
Avoid painting during rainy, windy, or extremely hot conditions. Also, steer clear of painting in direct sunlight, as this can cause the paint to dry too quickly, leading to visible brush marks and uneven texture.
Calculate How Much Paint You’ll Need
Paint can be expensive, so it’s important to estimate the right amount before purchasing. Calculate your home’s square footage and consider the surface material, paint type, and the number of coats required. Most paint suppliers can help you determine how much you’ll need based on this information.
Surface Preparation: The Key to a Lasting Finish
Proper surface prep is essential for a durable and professional-looking paint job.
- Clean the Exterior: Use a pressure washer to remove dirt, dust, and loose debris.
- Scrape and Sand: Remove any peeling or flaking paint. Sand rough areas for a smooth finish.
- Inspect for Damage: Check for rotten wood or damaged siding. Replace or repair as needed to prevent future issues.
- Caulking: Fill gaps, cracks, and holes with exterior-grade caulk. Replace any cracked or dried-out caulk to maintain a watertight seal.
- Priming: Once surfaces are clean and dry, apply a quality primer. This step improves paint adhesion and enhances durability.
Protect Surroundings: Use painter’s tape, drop cloths or plastic sheets to cover windows, doors, light fixtures, and landscaping.
Choose the Right Painting Tools
While professional painters often use spray equipment for speed and coverage, DIYers may find rollers and brushes more manageable. Rollers are great for large, flat surfaces, while brushes work best for corners, edges, and trim.
- Start with Primer: Applying primer helps extend the life of your paint and improves color richness.
- Top to Bottom: Always start painting from the highest point and work your way down. This prevents streaks and allows you to fix drips as you go.
- Work in Sections: Maintain a “wet edge” to avoid visible lap marks. Paint from one wet area to another for smooth, even coverage.
Two Coats for Best Results: Applying two full coats ensures better color depth, UV protection, and washability.