Top 10 Most Common Questions About Exterior Painting
When is the best time of year to paint your house? How often should you do so? Can you paint over peeling paint? All good questions and we've got some answers...
Minneapolis St. Paul homeownrs most commonly asked questions about exterior painting
Here's our top 10 list of FAQ's about exterior painting
Everyone is a painter at heart. Whether that means we are all artists by nature or aspiration or that it appears to be a skill we should all have regardless, the "how hard can it be" sentiment is always present when it comes to painting our own things. Perhaps that is especially true when exterior painting is usually judged at the distance to the curb.
1. What's the best time of year for exterior residential painting?
The best time for exterior residential painting is typically during mild and dry weather, such as late spring, summer, and early fall. Avoid painting during extreme temperatures, direct hot sunlight, heavy rain, or high humidity, as these conditions can affect paint adhesion and drying. Although we take it case by case, typically we do not do exterior painting after October 15th as the overnight temperatures are not consistently high enough to allow for adequate drying/curing.
2. How often should I repaint the exterior of my home?
The frequency of repainting your home's exterior depends on various factors, including the type of paint used, climate, and maintenance. In general, a well-maintained exterior paint job can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years. Of course, regular inspections and touch-ups can extend the lifespan of your paint.
3. Can I paint over peeling or flaking paint on the exterior of my house?
It's essential to address peeling or flaking paint before repainting. In most cases, we recommend the removal of any loose or damaged paint. We would then sand the surface, and then apply a high-quality primer. Painting over peeling paint without proper preparation can result in an uneven finish or actual failure to adhere. Paint is a foundational finish. If it is weak or compromised, no amount of good paint over bad can overcome that condition for long.
4. Should I use a power washer to clean my house before painting it?
Using a power washer can be an effective way to clean the exterior before painting, but it must be done carefully to avoid damaging the surface. Use low pressure and the appropriate nozzle, and ensure the surface is thoroughly dry before applying paint.
5. What's the difference between exterior paint finishes, like flat, satin, and Soft-gloss?
Exterior paint finishes impact both the appearance and durability of your home's exterior. Flat finishes provide a matte appearance but may be less durable. Satin finishes offer a subtle sheen and are often used on siding. Soft-gloss finishes provide a glossy look and are great for trim and doors because they're easy to clean and resist moisture.
6. Can I use the same paint for both wood and brick exteriors?
While some paints work well on various surfaces, it's essential to choose the appropriate paint for each material. Different surfaces require different paint formulations. Consult with a paint professional to select the right paint for wood, brick, or other materials on your home's exterior.
7. How do I choose the right color for my home's exterior?
When choosing an exterior paint color, consider your home's architectural style, roofing, landscaping, and surrounding environment. Sample paint swatches on your home to see how they appear in different lighting conditions. Many paint companies offer tools and online resources to help you visualize different colors on your exterior.
8. Do I need to use a primer when painting the exterior of my home?
In most cases, using a primer is recommended, especially when painting over bare wood, changing the color significantly, or covering stains or marks. A primer enhances paint adhesion, durability, and color consistency.
9. How do I prevent paint from peeling or fading on my home's exterior?
To prevent peeling or fading, proper surface preparation is crucial. Repair any damaged areas, remove loose paint, and use a high-quality primer. Additionally, choose a durable exterior paint and follow the manufacturer's guidelines for drying and curing times. Regular maintenance, like cleaning and touch-up painting, can also help extend the life of your paint job.
10. Can I paint my home's exterior myself, or should I hire a professional?
Of course, we have great confidence in your decision-making ability simply because you’ve dug this deep into our FAQ. You obviously care a great deal about the details and getting the full picture before making a decision. Kudos.
However, our bias as a painting company is difficult to overcome, so we’re just going to come right out and say most people have neither the equipment, patience, timing, knowledge, or physical capability to paint the exterior of their own home. So, the age-old question proves useful here. When you ask yourself, “How hard can it be?” consider that the answer just might be harder than you think.
