DID YOU KNOW? Exterior Painting

Did you know?

Exterior Painting:

*If home/building was built before 1978; A lead test will need to be done before doing the following steps.

If lead test is negative:

1) Perform a thorough pressure washing. This helps remove unwanted dust, dirt grime and debris including insects, spider webs etc. Once the surface is clean you can start the repair process.

2) Repair damages. In the Willamette Valley, we spend typically 9 months in rain weather, this can cause problems to wood surfaces on the exterior. Be sure to check all wood areas such as corner boards, window, and door trim etc. If you find dry-rot or other damage, repair it then continue. During your inspection, caulk all areas that need it. Scrape areas where paint is loose, or where the pressure washer removed the paint, scrape until no additional paint comes off, or sand until surface blends smooth depending on what you want the finish product to look like. Be sure to fill any unwanted gaps.

3) Prime Stains or metals. If there is staining, be sure to seal it with a rattle can or paint brush to help ensure that the stain want bleed through your new paint. Also, if any unfinished metals are present, be sure to seal them before painting. This will help prevent rust and discoloring of the paint in that area.

4) Masking. Mask doors, windows and either remove or mask light fixtures, doorbells etc. It is best to mask whatever you do not want to get paint on.

5) Paint. Work your way from the top to the bottom, controlled manner and overlap your stroke by 6-8 inches depending on tip and pressure setting. Be mindful of your gun angle and the angels of the area you are painting. For example, if you are painting exterior hardie plank lap siding, you need to ensure that your gun points at an upward angle to coat the bottom layer of the lap siding.

If lead test is positive you will need to follow lead safety measures before continuing.