The Complete Exterior Painting Guide

If your home was constructed before 1978, there’s a possibility it was painted with lead-based paint, now known to be harmful. Adhering to EPA guidelines for lead-safe practices is legaly required (although not for DIYers) for health and safety.

If the testing for lead paint returns positive, we minimize the risk of airborne lead particles by:

• • Spreading plastic drop cloths to gather paint scraps.
  • Using a HEPA vacuum to clean the area.
  • Wearing protective masks and Tyvek suits.
  • Properly disposing of materials at an authorized hazardous waste facility.

Before applying a fresh coat of paint, ensure the exterior walls are free of dirt, mildew, and other contaminants that could interfere with the paint’s adhesion. Most full exterior repaints will require a complete wash to ensure a clean surface for painting. Use a phosphate-free cleanser diluted in water to clean the walls.

Applying the solution by hand is an option but could be time-consuming. Painting Contractors of MD uses a low pressure pressure-washing system and the correct chemical applications to properly clean while protecting wood and other paintable surfaces. High pressure should never be used on wood and other delicate surfaces.

Before you start painting, make sure to protect areas that are not to be painted . This could include windows, roofs, concrete, landscaping, furniture, decks, patios, etc.

Use drop cloths or plastic sheets to cover these areas and use painter’s tape to get clean lines and protect areas like window panes. Taking the time to protect these areas will help prevent any accidental splatters or spills, making cleanup easier and ensuring a professional-looking finish. 

After the exterior is clean and dry, the next step is to scrape off loose or flaking paint. While a handheld scraper is generally the most effective tool, a hot-air gun or infrared paint stripper can also be used. Avoid open-flame torches, as they pose a fire risk.

To maintain lead safety, wear protective gear, wet the paint before scraping, and collect the debris.

Using siliconized or high-quality polyurethane acrylic caulks not only enhances the look of the paint job but also prevents air leaks and water penetration. Opt for the longer-lasting caulks with warranties of up to 55 years, despite the slightly higher cost.

Use a pad sander or random-orbit sander with 80-grit sandpaper to smooth any remaining rough spots. Be careful to avoid leaving sander marks. For lead safety, ensure your sander is equipped with a HEPA filter.

Immediately after preparing the wood siding, apply primer. A white, gray, or tinted primer provides a uniform surface for the paint to adhere to and highlights areas requiring caulking. The type of primer used will depend on whether you’re painting over bare wood, existing latex paint, or multiple coats of oil-based paint.

Water-based acrylic latex paint is typically easier to work with than oil-based paints. It’s easy to apply, dries quickly, and can be cleaned with soap and water. If your house already has an oil-based paint, you’ll need to continue using it.

Choose a finish that can best protect against the sun’s rays. Generally, a higher sheen offers better protection. Satin finish is suitable for shingles or clapboards, while gloss paint is ideal for high-traffic areas of the house.

When it comes to applying the top coats, less is often more. Too many layers can cause the paint to flake off over time. Depending on the color transition, you may need one or two coats.

Start by carefully removing all the coverings from the areas you protected. Be careful when removing painter’s tape so as not to peel off any fresh paint.

Collect all the used painting tools such as brushes, rollers, and trays. Brushes and rollers should be cleaned immediately after use to prolong their lifespan. If you used water-based paint, warm soapy water will do the trick. For oil-based paints, you’ll need to use a paint thinner for clean-up. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when cleaning up paint and disposing of paint cans.

Dispose of any leftover paint or empty paint cans according to local regulations.