Follow these expert tips to get a paint job that weathers the elements
It’s fine to be house proud, and nothing shows it better than a couple of coats of fresh paint. But even the toughest exterior paint will probably fail before its time if it’s improperly applied or the surface isn’t prepped properly. Here’s some tips on how to prep before you paint as well as some paints that made our list of top paint picks. Before you paint:
Protect the perimeter of your house. Tie back shrubs and tree limbs. Cover plantings, air conditioners, and exhaust vents with drop cloths.
Scrub and wash. Dirt, mildew, and chalky old paint will prevent fresh paint and stain from adhering properly. Scrub the surface with a wire brush or rent a power washer, and use detergent to eliminate dirt. Use a Sissons Biocidal Solution any fungus and mildew. Be sure to give the siding several days or longer to dry thoroughly.
Scrape and sand. Using a hand scraper, power sander, or power washer, remove all traces of peeling and cracked paint. Scrape out rotted areas, fill with a wood filler, and then sand smooth to hide the patch.
Replace cracked or rotted boards. Simply filling and repairing cracked or split boards will still allow water to get in.
Paint a test patch. Create a sample board with each color you’re considering to see how each one looks before you paint.
Check the forecast. Many paints applied in cold weather might not dry properly, resulting in poor adhesion. Never paint in the rain; postpone the job if necessary.
Consider the surface. Materials other than wood might require other procedures. Stucco and masonry, for example, might need sealing first.
