Four rules for a perfect exterior paint job.
1.) Properly prepare the surface. Even the best quality exterior paint can fail if applied to a dirty or unsound surface.
- Clean soon-to-be-painted surfaces with power washing equipment or by scrubbing with a long-handled brush using plain soap and water.
- Remove loose, flaking or peeling paint by scraping or wire brushing and feather back rough paint edges by sanding. Especially on repaints, it is necessary to scrape after powerwashing to remove paint that may not be visibly peeling but has separated from the substrate.
- Sand and spot-prime any areas where bare wood shows. When painting a glossy surface, be sure to sand the area to permit the paint to adhere better.
- Brush off any dust or particles left from the scraping and sanding.
- Caulk around windows and doors, between gaps in siding, and in any other areas where moisture can enter.
2.) Purchase top quality paint and follow label directions. Top quality acrylic latex paint is excellent for most exterior applications and will provide the best-looking and longest-lasting paint job. Acrylic latex paint offers many advantages including superior adhesion when applied to a properly prepared surface to help prevent failures like blistering, flaking and peeling. It remains flexible and can expand and contract with the surface when temperatures rise and fall dramatically so will extend the life of your paint job.
3.) Use top quality application equipment. To get the best results with
your top quality paint, be sure to apply it with top quality tools and accessories. They'll make the work much easier and help you apply a thicker, more uniform coat for a better-looking paint job.
- Power Washing and Spray Painting Equipment. If you choose to speed your work with power washing and spray painting equipment available at many paint stores and rental centers, be sure to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for safe and proper operation.
- Brushes and Rollers. Make certain that you have the right type of applicator for the paint you are applying. Use synthetic brushes and roller
covers for latex paint, and use brushes and rollers made of either natural or synthetic fibers for oil-based or alkyd paint. And, when choosing brushes, favor those that are tightly packed, well balanced and springy.
4.) Paint under the right weather conditions. It is generally recommended that paint be applied when temperatures are in the 50°F - 80°F
range to allow your paint to form a highly protective film that will look great and last for years. Ask your Columbia representative for more information about how weather conditions will affect your paint job.
