When it comes to your property, curb appeal can add more than a great first impression. Good looks can add significant value to a home, whether it’s an attractive front yard or a fresh coat of paint, and can account for up to 7 percent of a home’s sale value. A professional contractor can safely and expertly paint your home exterior to help boost curb appeal and ensure your property looks as good as possible. These house painting tips will help you get started.
#1 Choose Paint Color
Opt for paint colors that match the architectural style of your home. Home decorating magazines and websites are good places to start researching exterior colors. Paint company websites sometimes let you upload an image of your home and sample various colors. Before you start your painting project, buy a small amount of your chosen color and paint an inconspicuous area of your home.
#2 Choose Paint Type and Finish
Besides color, you’ll also have to choose a paint finish and paint type. Satin or eggshell finishes have a light sheen that makes them fade-resistant and easier to clean. However, a flat finish may be best if you plan to take a break in the middle of your exterior paint project. Flat paint won’t show overlapping seams, so no one will notice where you left off and pick up again.
Water-based latex is a popular type of paint. However, oil-based latex works well on wood steps and steel railings.
#3 Gather Tools
You can’t beat the old-fashioned brush and roller for DIY exterior paint projects. A sprayer may seem fast and efficient, but spray painting requires extensive preparation. For example, you must tape every surface that will not be painted. If saving time is a priority, consider using a brush and roller.
#4 Take Time to Prep
Of course, you want your exterior paint to adhere to the surface. There are no shortcuts to the prep work if you want attractive, long-lasting results. Scrape off peeling paint. Remove rotten wood or apply hardener and wood filler. Clean, dry, and sand all surfaces that you plan to paint.
#5 Apply Primer and Paint
Most exterior surfaces require two coats of paint. Apply an acrylic primer to most types of wood to create a smooth, sealed surface. Use an oil-based primer for redwood or cedar surfaces. After the primer dries, apply two coats of acrylic latex paint over the primer.
#6 Work Smart
This is one of the most important house painting tips we can offer. Some parts of your exterior paint project will be fun. Other parts, such as under the eaves, will seem like drudgery. Work on the most difficult and boring sections first while fresh. Then you can reward yourself by painting the house’s fun, most visible parts.
Plus, maximize your time at the top of your extension ladder. To save time climbing the ladder, try to paint as far as you can safely reach while you’re up there.
RH Blanchard has a skilled general contracting team available for your Boston-area exterior projects. For a free consultation, get in touch today!
