If you are planning to paint the exterior of your home, then there are more than a few essential steps that you need to follow, so that you do not end up with a painting disaster. And more importantly, you need to double-check and ascertain that you have acquired all the supplies you need for the paint job and get it done. To put it bluntly, you can get professionals to help you. But if you are looking to cut back on your painting bill by handling it yourself, then do read on.
- Power wash: Ask any of the painters in Auckland and they would tell you that the first thing you need to do is to clean up the exterior of your home. And since that includes the roof, just make sure that you wear a safety harness as you clean the rooftop as well. Use a powerwash, to remove all the dirt, dust, debris, and any particulate matter before you start cleaning. You must follow these steps before you start painting, otherwise, you run the risk of letting your first coat go to waste. And here is a bonus tip: When you use it to clean the walls, make sure you do so in a controlled manner, in a step-by-step process, so that the walls are completely clean.
- Repair the damage: Most painters would point out the fact that most homeowners often fail to repair the damages on the exterior before painting over it. This can cause cracks and holes to show through the exterior paint and it will lead to a marred appearance, one that will become apparent right away. And that’s the reason why you would be better off if you were to repair any damage to the walls, stucco, roof and wall trims, siding, and more. You can use an epoxy filler and allow it to dry so that the damage is repaired.
- Sand the walls: You need to sand the walls first before painting them over. And remember to use a sealant as well as this should enable you to paint the top coat so that it lasts long. You first need to clean the walls and then, you can sand them over with a light grit to remove the old paint and plasterwork before you start painting it fresh. And if your home is an old one that was painted more than a decade back, then you may well need sandpapers with a stronger grit to get rid of all the old paint.
- Caulk the doors and windows: If you are looking to get the doors and window trims repaired, then you may need a caulking gun. Refill it with fresh caulk and repair the trims, and wait a while before you start painting again. This should allow enough time for the caulk to set and for you to start painting fresh.
- Use the primer: Most homeowners when painting the first time around, often end up giving the primer the miss in the rush. That’s a bad mistake; primers are essential especially if you hope for your paint to stay a long time. And that is why you need to start with a primer before applying the topcoat.
This is how to go about it when painting the exterior of your home for that neat, perfect finish.