Exterior Painters Overland can make a big difference in your home’s curb appeal. Whether you’re looking to sell your home or want to update the look, painting is a quick and affordable way to boost your property’s value.
Before deciding to hire a pro, take some time to evaluate the condition of your home’s exterior. If water damage or structural issues are present, these repairs need to be addressed before the paint job begins.
The preparation process is a crucial part of any painting job, and exterior painters are no different. They know that poor surface prep can result in a messy paint job that looks bad and doesn’t last long.
First, a home’s exterior should be cleaned thoroughly and completely before painting to ensure that the new coatings adhere properly and will not peel or flake off in the future. Quality painters will use a variety of cleaning techniques to remove all dirt, debris, and loose paint, including pressure washing, low-pressure power washing, and sweeping.
During the washing process, the surfaces are rinsed with warm water and detergent to remove any remaining debris and grime that may have accumulated over time. Using a higher solution-to-water ratio (sodium hypochlorite, bleach, or copper sulfate) is recommended for areas that have mold and mildew growth.
Once the surface is clean and dry, a professional painting contractor can begin the actual painting process. Depending on the size and type of home, it might take a day or more to complete the entire job.
Before starting the paint job, the homeowner should be prepared to take down all furniture and move large objects away from the walls, or place them in a central location that is out of harm’s way. This will ensure that no one touches any electrical wires or other items that could be damaged by paint fumes.
Next, all plants and shrubs close to the house should be trimmed or tied back. This will keep them out of the way while the house is being painted, and it will protect them from any paint chips that might be thrown on their leaves or branches.
The homeowner should also remove any outlet and light switch covers to avoid exposing them to the paint fumes. It’s also a good idea to cover any trees or shrubs with a lightweight canvas tarp to help protect them from the weather and the paint.
The final step in the painting process is laying down primer, which will help paint adhere better to the surface and make the paint look more uniform. It’s best to apply the primer after washing and scraping, so that the surfaces are completely dry before painting.
A primer is a coating that helps to strengthen the bond between your paint and the surface it is applied to. It helps to ensure that the paint job is smooth, even, and lasts for a long time. It is also used to hide blemishes and prevent bleed-through.
There are several different types of primers, each with specific uses and advantages. For example, some are designed for specific applications like masonry, wood, or stucco. Others are made specifically for covering stains or handling odors.
Primer can also help reduce the number of coats needed to cover a color. This is important because it can save you money in the long run.
Another reason you might want to use a primer is if the previous painting is peeling or chipping off. It will make it easier to remove any loose paint and prevent the new coat from falling off, which can happen if you just paint over it without priming first.
You will also need a primer if the existing paint is in bad condition or if you want to protect it from UV rays. It can help to protect your exterior paint from cracking or fading in harsh weather.
