How to...Paint the exterior of your house

How to...Paint the exterior of your House

The first thing is to choose the best quality and your choice of color for the job.
Most brands of paint come in a choice of quality, finishes and many colors.

Exterior paint finishes:

Flat - used mostly for shingles, wood lap siding, masonry and bricks

Satin - great for vinyl and aluminum siding and has a slight shiny sheen

Semi-Gloss - is easier to keep clean mostly used for trim and windows

Gloss - stands up well under rainy conditions and has a much higher sheen

An important feature to look for would be a good mildew resistant paint, one that is fade resistant.
Most popular paint companies do extensive testing for fading and endurance to weather. Most all paints manufactured today have an acrylic base.

There is an easy formula that can be used to figure out the number of gallons of paint that you will need. Simply measure the circumfrance and multiply that number by the height, then divide by 350. That should tell you how many gallons to purchase.

After you have decided on your choices of brand, color, luster and quality it is time to gather up your tools and get started. Be sure to check with the person in the paint department at your favorite lumber yard, paint store, or hardware store and take their recommendations on a choice of brushes or felt rollers. A good quality brush should provide a smoother finish than a cheap brush.

In preparation of the wood, you will need a good scraper, some sandpaper and if mildew is present it can be eliminated with one part of bleach to three parts of water. If you use a power washer and cleaning additive in the washer process be sure that you wear protective goggle or glasses.

All nails should be countersunk and old cracked, hardened putty should be dug out and replaced. Make sure the surface is clear of dust and dirt before applying any paint. In some areas it may be necessary to use a good primer or sealer. Again, check with the person in the paint department and use his suggestions. If you are painting over a dark area with a light color paint it may be necessary to prime the area or use two coats of paint.

A final suggestion: Outside painting should be done when the temperature is above 55 degrees and below 90 degrees and best when there is no or little wind. Make sure that the paint is well stirred and stir it from time to time to make sure the color is mixed well with the base. Clean your brushes and tools in warm soapy water and hang them up to dry.

Following these suggestions should bring old surface of your home back to life again. Do it right and the new finish of your home should stand up well for many years.