Painting the exterior of your house is a big home improvement project. It takes plenty of time and money. For this reason, you don’t want to find it cracking and peeling any time soon. Follow these tips to help keep your new exterior paint looking amazing for years to come.
Properly Preparing the Site
You need to thoroughly wash the area you are going to paint. This removes mildew, dirt, and grime. Use a mild detergent, along with a gentle pressure washer. High-pressure washers may force water underneath any existing paint, which leads to future issues.
Scrape away any flaking or peeling paint that is currently on your home. You don’t want to paint over cracked paint. After scraping, sand the edges of the area until smooth. This creates a seamless transition. You won’t have any ridges showing through. If you notice any cracks or gaps, you can fill them with a paintable filler or caulk. Use a flexible sealant around windows, along seams, and around joints. This will prevent water from getting under your paint. When you hire a professional painting service, they’ll ensure the area is properly prepared.
High-Quality Paint and Professional Application
Use an exterior bonding primer to cover bare spots. This will improve the paint’s adhesion and help seal the surface. Be sure to use a primer that’s designed for your surface.
A high-quality paint will be the best investment you can make. Look for a formula that can withstand your local climate. It needs to be resistant to the sun, temperature fluctuations, and moisture.
Professional painters will apply your paint in thin, even coats. This is much better than thickly brushing it on. Overloading leads to cracking, but thin coats will adhere better. Proper drying time between each coat of paint is essential. Applying a second coat too soon is a common reason for paint failures.
Ongoing Maintenance
It would be nice to paint it and forget it, but your exterior paint will require some care. Make sure there are no moisture problems like leaks. You also don’t want your siding to touch the ground. Always direct your lawn sprinklers away from your home as well. Most importantly, regularly inspect your home for any signs of peeling or cracking. If you find any problem areas, touch them up promptly. This keeps small issues from escalating.
These simple steps are well worth the time and effort. Properly preparing your home, selecting quality products, and relying on a professional application will pay off. You’ll easily avoid peeling and cracking, which distracts from your curb appeal. Call MSD Painting Services in Rio Rancho, NM for help with your exterior painting.
