5 Steps You Should Take Before Kicking Off Your Exterior Painting Project

Painting the exterior of your house is a substantial project that can wholly transform its appearance and radically enhance its curb appeal. However, this isn’t a process you can dive into without a game plan; successful exterior painting requires meticulous preparation and a commitment to doing things the right way! Here are 5 steps you should keep in mind if you’re about to kick off your next exterior painting project, to ensure that things go smoothly and your home is beautifully renovated!

1. Pressure Wash Your Walls

Even though you’ll be painting your walls, they still need to be clean and free of dirt, grime, or other debris before you get started – the paint won’t simply “cover up” these messes, and might actually not adhere correctly if the surface isn’t properly washed beforehand. You can also use a pressure washer to remove older, loose paint that you’re planning to repaint.

2. Repair Damaged Surfaces

After you’ve finished washing your walls, you’ll also want to repair any existing damage to them. Whether that be chips and cracks, dents and dings, broken panels, or something else entirely, you won’t want to spend all of that time and effort painting a damaged or degrading surface! Plus, repairing any damages will make your paint job a lot easier to complete.

3. Caulk Trim

Most people don’t think of caulk trim before painting the exterior of their home, but this small, often-forgotten step is incredibly important. It’s a wise idea to re-caulk your boards, wood windows, garage door trim, as well as any other imperfections on the siding of your home. The caulk helps to protect your paint, as well as the inside of your home, from water and insect damage.

4. Protect Your Doors, Lights, and Windows

You’ll want to cover anything that you don’t want to get paint on, including doors, windows, lights, cars, landscaping, etc. You can use tarps or sheets for larger objects, and painter’s tape to protect around windows, doors, and other edges that need to stay clean. Don’t forget about protecting things like water valves, phone and communication boxes, electrical meters, and other similar utilities.

5. Consult with Your HOA

This isn’t applicable to everyone – but if you’re a member of a homeowner’s association, you’ll want to do your homework before painting your home’s exterior and ensure that the scheme you’ve chosen is HOA-compliant. HOAs often have certain rules and restrictions concerning what’s allowed when it comes to landscaping, lawn décor, and exterior paint. Save yourself a headache and avoid potential fines by making sure that your project plans are approved by the appropriate party.

Above all else, if you still have doubts about how to prepare for exterior painting, you should consult with a team of professionals. They’ll be sure you’ve gotten everything squared away before getting started – and they can also complete the project for you and ensure spectacular results!

About Platinum Painting

Our team here at Platinum Painting has assisted countless homeowners in Dallas and the surrounding DFW metroplex over the last 15 years, offering expert assistance and guidance with a wide range of interior and exterior painting projects. If you have any questions about the blog, or you’d like to get in touch with us to set up a FREE in-home estimate to discuss your upcoming project, feel free to visit our website or call us today for additional information or assistance.  

Tarrant County Telephone: (817) 697-2726.

Dallas/Denton/Collin County Telephone: (817) 993-4095.