Painting your house is not that difficult, but it can be a time consuming chore. But before you get started you will want to give some considerable thought to the type of paint and the colors you are going to apply. Also, you need to be willing to invest in the right tools and to take the time to prepare the surface and complete the job properly. Otherwise, your home may end up looking like it belongs in a horror flick. To help you get the job done right, here are 4 smart tips for painting your house.
1. Invest in the right tools
With any DIY painting project, the job is much easier when you have the right tools. And the same can be said for painting your home. So you will need a high quality ladder that meets or exceeds OSHA regulations, a couple of good 3” paint brushes, a paint roller with a ½” nap cover, roller frame and a 5 gallon paint bucket. While you’re at the store, you may as well pick up some coveralls and a drop cloth too.
Many first time DIY home painters are a bit intimidated about using a paint roller. You can certainly use a brush to paint the entire house, but learning how to use a paint roller will save you a lot of time. Just practice on some wood or other scrap materials until you get the hang of it.
2. Choose the correct paint for the surface
In the past, there were basically two types of paint: Oil based for wood and latex for other surfaces. But with advances in technology and the reformulation to remove those nasty volatile organic compounds (VOCs), the emergence of 100% acrylic paint has grown in popularity for its adhesion properties and resistance to mildew. Also, acrylic paint has the flexibility of latex and can be applied to just about any surface, except metal, where oil-based enamel paint is best. Bring a chip of an existing paint to your local retailer and they will be able to help match it with the right paint for the surface.
3. Prepare the surface
One of the most important painting tips is to take the time to properly prepare the surface before you apply your first brush stroke. This helps prevent flaws like chipped, cracked or peeling paint from forming after your hard work is complete. First, pressure-wash the exterior surface with a mild detergent so that it’s thoroughly clean. Then scrape off any loose or flaking paint or other debris that is still clinging to the surface.
A word of caution: Because wood surfaces require extensive preparation and priming, it is highly recommended you consult with a professional house painter before attempting to do it yourself.
4. Keep an eye on the weather
Believe it or not, the weather can either help your or hinder your exterior home painting project. In order for the paint to dry properly and adhere to the surface, it shouldn’t be too hot, humid or cold outside. A comfortable, cloudy day is the best time to paint your house. But since Mother Nature doesn’t always cooperate, it is best to avoid painting in direct sunlight and on wet, rainy or windy days. Also, keep in mind that the higher the humidity, the longer it will take for the paint to dry. So make sure there is no chance of rain in the forecast or your masterpiece may be all washed out.
Of course, you can always give us a call and let our professional team of house painters paint do it for you (877) 646-7774. There’s no mess and it’s guaranteed to last.
Frank Campanelli, the esteemed founder of Franklin Painting LLC, has been leading the company since 1986. He takes immense pride in the stellar reputation his dedicated team has built by consistently delivering top-notch service to each customer.
