Latest Home Improvement, Renovation & Remodeling Trends

In many southern areas of the country exterior painting can start almost as soon as a few days after the spring rains and fogs have ceased. In the north, however, June is usually the norm. Any earlier and there is still moisture in the air and in the porous, exposed wood parts.

1) Timing: Wait until there has been an uninterrupted stretch of warm days.

2) Scraping:The key to a good paint job outside is preparation, that is scraping the flakes of old paint off the old boards. This can also be done with a cordless drill and synthetic fire wheel.

3) Primer: Raw wood and oil painted areas should be primed with a quality primer for outdoor use. Remember, using good paint not only makes the finish last long it goes on better than cheap paint.

4) Paint: There are many thoughts about whether to paint with latex or oil-based paints. Latex, whether acrylic or standard, not only cleans up with water but it breathes. In other words moisture in the walls can escape through the skin of the paint while oil forms a sold shell and moisture build-up can cause bubbling and flaking. Also, this is no time to scrimp on quality. Using a top paint with proper preparation means you won’t have to paint again for 7 years.

5) Brushes: For clapboard and moldings you really can’t roller all the surfaces. Brushing is going to be required. Buying brushes “by the dozen” is not cost effective because the brushes wear out. Besides, they do not hold the paint of a good bristle brush. Spending some money on good brushes saves time and money.

6) Rags: Always carry a damp rag on your belt when you do latex. Any drops or smears can be cleaned up in seconds. For oil-based have a small can of mineral oil or solvent handy.

7) Ladders: Use a sturdy ladder with a high reach. The higher the ladder the more support is needed. Securing the ladder to the side of the building is a good way to steady a high ladder. Make dire the climber has safety gear on that is attached securely.