Painting the exteriors is the right way to maintain and also beautify your home. At the same time, it is important that you do this in the right manner. Any mistakes made can lead to a disaster. This paint will not last long and you will be wasting a lot of money. The time wasted is another factor.
It is advisable to ensure you are in the know of the technique before you paint the exteriors of your home. If you have any doubts, it is important to consult a professional, or get the job done by a professional.
Having said this, listed below are some of the painting mistakes that you need to avoid when painting the home exteriors.
Mistakes to avoid when Painting Exteriors of a House
- The Prep Phase is important
Most homeowners are in a hurry to get over the painting of the exteriors. This leads to skipping the prep phase. In short, you are inviting a disaster.
For the best results you need it is important to follow the prep phase.
- Scrape the loose paint chips
- Sand the rough edges of the remaining paint as this makes it easier to apply fresh paint
- Make sure that the surface that needs painting is cleaned thoroughly. You need to remove all the dirt, dust or debris accumulated. A power wash is the ‘thorough’ wash you are looking for. Remember to leave the surface for a day or two to dry before you start the painting job.
- Repair the areas that are deteriorating or are rotten
- The open seams need to be caulked.
- Not Considering the Weather
Before you plan on painting the exteriors it is important to keep the climate factor in mind. Constant sun exposure or even heavy rainfall can damage the finish of the exterior paint. There are a few types of exterior paints that hold up when exposed to the different elements.
The UV rays can deteriorate the binders in paints that are inferior. This leads to a break-down and it is released in the powder form that can get washed away by the rain. This leads to a faded finish.
Inferior paints can also swell and soften when exposed to moisture. This can lead to blistering, cracking or flaking.
- Choosing the Wrong Type of Paint for the Exteriors
As mentioned, you need to consider the weather and moisture before you make a choice of exterior paints. There is no way you can compromise on the quality of the paint for saving money.
Make sure you do not use latex paint over a coat of paint that is oil-based. This does not stick and soon you have the paint peeling off. Good quality paint might work out a little costly but is totally worth it.
- Use Primer
A coat of primer is beneficial for any exterior paint, but this works all the more essential for prime wood that has not been previously painted. This also applies for any unpainted wood.
- Choosing the Colors of Paint Using Printed Sample
Getting a general idea of the paint is fine with printed samples, but it is advisable to see the actual color painted on a surface. This is the only way in which you get a clear picture of how the color can look on your walls.
If possible bring a small amount of the paint you decide on to your house. Different materials and types of wood absorb the paint in different manner. This tends to change the color a little or even drastically.
- Ignoring Safety Concerns
Painting the exterior of a house is definitely not an easy job. It can be termed as ‘dangerous’ if the proper care is not taken, climbing the ladder to paint the top, and that too, with brushes and other essentials. Another problem is exposure to the paint particles. This can be a health hazard for many, especially those suffering from respiratory problems and allergies.
Not many are aware that some paints have a high concentration of VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds). This releases hazardous compounds and if inhaled for a long period of time, can lead to different health problems. One way to avoid any concerns about the VOC level in your paint is to hire a local professional to paint your house exterior.
The safest way to go about painting the exterior of your home is to hire a well reputed and experienced professional.
Getting your home painted, interiors and exteriors can increase the value of your home. This can keep the surroundings healthy and clean. An exterior paint can conceal the flaws and ensure your home looks as good as new.
You need to be aware that painting your home, the exteriors, is not only time consuming but also strenuous. It is important that you are mentally prepared before you take this up. You have the option of hiring professionals. If you want your exterior house painting job to last, follow good painting practices. Your reward will be a long-lasting exterior paint job in the here and now. Paint in Colors LLC has the experience and expertise to help you choose just the right color and type of painting your house.