Painting the exterior of your home adds value to your property while boosting your curb appeal. But what type of paint is best for the job? And how do you ensure that the work you hire is up to your standards? This article takes a closer look at the process of exterior house painting, so you can protect your investment and be confident that the finished product is what you had in mind.
The first step in exterior painting is to clean the surfaces of your home thoroughly. This can be done with a pressure washer or scrub brush. This will remove dirt, mildew and loose or chipping paint. Any cracks or chips should be filled and sanded smooth before painting.
Exterior House Painting: Boost Your Home’s Curb Appeal with Expert Painters
A good quality acrylic latex or oil-based alkyd paint is recommended for the majority of exterior surfaces. These paints offer superior adhesion and durability. Choose an eggshell or satin sheen, as this type of finish is more durable and resists fading compared to flat paints.
Typically two coats of exterior paint is the rule for a successful job. The first coat is usually a primer, and the second is your choice of color. Your local Benjamin Moore retailer can help you choose the appropriate primer for your substrate.
Painting the exterior of your home can be labor-intensive. It is important to plan and select a dry time of year, and cover any plants or outdoor furniture that cannot be moved in the paint area. It is also a good idea to cover any windows, doors or light fixtures with plastic sheeting and painter’s tape. Once the painting is complete, all tarps and coverings will be removed, and all equipment will be cleaned up.