A fresh coat of exterior paint can completely transform the look of your home, boosting curb appeal and protecting your siding from the elements for many years to come. But before any paint goes on the walls, proper preparation is key to achieving a smooth, long-lasting finish. Skipping these steps can lead to peeling, cracking, or other unsightly issues down the road that also impact your paint’s performance. That said, here are some of the most important steps you should take before starting an exterior painting project.
1. Inspect & Repair Damaged Surfaces
Before any painting begins, it’s important to walk around your home and check for signs of damage, including rotting wood, cracked siding, loose caulking, or peeling paint. These issues need to be addressed first since painting over damaged surfaces only leads to bigger problems later on—or it might mask current ones. You might also need to repair or replace certain sections of wood, sand things down, and check carefully for small holes to fill.
2. Power Wash the Exterior
Dirt, mildew, pollen, grime, and all sorts of other natural debris can build up on your home’s exterior over time, and you can’t just paint over them since they’ll keep your paint from adhering correctly. This means that a smooth and clean surface is absolutely necessary. Take the time to power wash your exterior carefully, and make sure you leave yourself adequate time for things to dry before you start painting.
3. Protect Your Landscaping & Belongings
Exterior painting can get messy, so it’s a good idea to prepare your yard beforehand. This might include covering or relocating plants and shrubs near the house, moving outdoor furniture and décor, shutting off sprinklers so surfaces stay dry, parking cars in the garage or along the street, and making sure all pets are kept away from the work area. Taking these precautions ahead of time helps the project run smoothly and protects your property from accidental splatters or damage.
Some homeowners enjoy handling the painting themselves, but it should never come at the cost of skipping prep—and if you find yourself unsure, working with a team of pros will ensure that nothing gets overlooked and your project turns out looking great!
About Platinum Painting of Arlington
Our team here at Platinum Painting has proudly served homeowners in Arlington and all across the DFW metroplex for several years. We offer a wide range of interior and exterior painting services for projects of all shapes and sizes, and if you’re ready to paint your house, our experts would be more than happy to guide you through the process, including all the prep beforehand. If you have any questions about the blog or you’re interested in scheduling a FREE estimate, please contact our team online or by phone to learn more. Telephone: (817) 983-7280.