Does your home need a new exterior paint job? Thinking of DIY-ing it? Here are some things to consider:
1) Type of Paint
There are two types of paint to choose from: water-based latex and oil-based alkyd. The first is the most convenient and less-time consuming. Latex paint can be cleaned with soap and water, dries quickly, does not have a strong smell, and is less likely to crack due to its flexibility. The paints with 100% acrylic resins are the best-quality.
Alkyd paint is preferred by the professionals because it is stain-resistant and durable. It also dries with fewer brush marks. The downside to alkyd paint is its strong and pungent smell, it is slow to dry, and requires paint thinner to clean up.
2) Price of Paint
In this case, you get what you pay for. The more expensive paints produce a thicker, long-lasting, and more protective coating then the less expensive paints. You have to first decide on a budget and then choose the best paint that you can afford.
3) The Small Print
Pay close attention to the tiny print on the label of the paint can. The information can help your painting job go much more smoothly. For instance, it gives you instructions on prepping the surface and how hot or cool the temperature outside should be.
4) Prep the Surface
The exterior must be clean of all dirt, grime, mildew, and chalky residue in order for the new paint to adhere to the surface. Power sprayers work wonders however a stiff bristle brush has proven to be just as effective and takes just a little longer.
Make sure all the nail heads are below the surface and then fill the holes with exterior-grade putty. Sand down the putty after it is fully dried. Any new caulking applied must be paintable.
As long as the old paint is in good condition it can be painted over. If the old paint is blistering or flaking, it needs to be scraped, sanded, and primed before applying new paint.
5) Paint Tools
To be the most effective, you want to use both a paint brush and a paint roller to get the job done. Use the brush for narrow surfaces, edges and smaller areas and roll out the roller for those long and large surfaces, such as siding and trim.
6) Shady is Best
You may be hesitant to paint on an overcast day as it may start pouring down on your newly painted house. However, overcast days are the best as you don't want the paint to dry too quickly. Paint that dries too quickly (when in direct sunlight or applied to a sun-baked surface) will not adhere well and will start to blister and flake. On sunny days, begin on the shady side of the house (make sure the surface is dry) and then wait for the sun to move. Then you can paint the remaining sides that have become shaded.
7) Start at the Top
Begin near the top of the house and work your way down. Paint the bottom edge of the siding first and then do the broad surfaces. Always try to brush from one wet surface onto another wet surface to avoid lap marks. If you must paint on an already-dried surface, overlap the dried paint by several inches.
For more home improvement tips or other real estate information, please contact us at 888-988-6248 or visit us on the web at www.choicehomeshawaii.com
