Introduction
Are you looking to give your home’s exterior a fresh, eye-catching makeover? Look no further! In this ultimate guide to the best exterior paints, we’ll share 13 expert tips on how to choose the best exterior paint and get that professional finish for your house.
From selecting the perfect color scheme to mastering painting techniques and keeping it maintained, we’ve got you covered.
Key Takeaways – Paint House Exterior Tips 💭
- Properly preparing the house exterior before painting is crucial for achieving a long-lasting and professional finish. This includes repairing any damages, cleaning the surface thoroughly, and protecting surrounding areas from paint drips.
- Choosing high-quality paint based on climate conditions, durability, and color scheme is key for an ideal paint job. Durable paints with enamel finishes resist harsh weather exposure and reduce peeling or flaking risks while emitting less toxic fumes during application or drying.
- Applying the paint properly with the right tools such as brushes, rollers, and extension poles can make all the difference in achieving even coverage of thin coats without overlap marks. Follow tips like working quickly to avoid drying out too fast and make sure each section dries completely before moving to the next.
Table of Contents
Preparing Your House Exterior For Painting
Inspect and repair any damages on the surface, clean it thoroughly, and protect areas that are not being painted to ensure a smooth paint job.
Inspect And Repair Damages
Before jumping into the painting process, it is crucial to thoroughly inspect and repair any damages on your house’s exterior. Taking these steps will ensure your exterior house paints a smooth and long-lasting paint job:
- Work your way around the entire house, thoroughly looking for any cracks, holes, or rot in siding, trim, and other exterior surfaces.
- Check for potential water damage or signs of mold and mildew that may need addressing before painting.
- Inspect areas where two different materials meet, such as where wood sidings connect to windows or doors, as these are common spots for wear and tear.
- Make note of loose or flaking paint that will require scraping and sanding before applying new paint.
- Repair any damaged wood by either replacing it or using a filler compound appropriate for exterior use.
- Properly seal gaps around windows and doors with exterior-grade caulk to prevent moisture from seeping in behind the paint.
- Examine gutters and downspouts for blockages and proper functioning to avoid water damage on freshly painted surfaces.
Addressing these issues prior to painting not only ensures a smoother application but also helps maintain the paint job’s longevity and overall appearance.
Clean The Surface
Cleaning the surface of your house exterior is a crucial step in preparing for a successful paint job. A clean and dirt-free surface allows the paint to adhere properly, giving you a smooth and long-lasting finish. Here’s how to effectively clean your exterior surfaces:
- Remove any loose or flaking paint using a scraper or wire brush.
- Use a pressure washer to remove dirt, mildew, and grime from the siding, taking care not to damage the surface.
- For stubborn stains or a heavy buildup of dirt, use a mixture of water and mild detergent to scrub the area gently with a soft brush.
- Pay special attention to areas with mold or mildew growth, as these can compromise the paint adhesion and lead to premature peeling.
- Clean exterior surfaces that may not be visible but still impact the overall finish, such as soffits, fascia boards, and trim.
- Allow ample time for the surfaces to dry completely before moving on to painting.
- Check weather conditions before beginning work; avoid cleaning if rain is expected within 24 hours.
Incorporating these steps into your house exterior cleaning routine ensures that you create an ideal foundation for applying high-quality exterior paint that will resist cracking, peeling, and fading over time.
Protect The Surrounding Area
Before you begin painting your house exterior, it’s crucial to protect the surrounding area from paint drips and spills. Start by laying down drop cloths or plastic sheets over nearby plants, shrubs, pathways, and outdoor furniture.
To further safeguard your property, take the time to properly mask off doors, windows, and any other fixtures that should remain paint-free during the process.
Use painter’s tape to create a secure edge between surfaces you want to paint and those you wish to protect. For example, when painting exterior wood siding near vinyl siding or brickwork; this ensures crisp lines for a professional-looking finish while also preventing potential damage caused by accidental color transfer.
Choosing The Best Paint For Your House Exterior
Consider the climate and durability of the paint, choose a suitable finish, and decide on a color scheme that complements your home’s exterior.
Considering Climate
Choosing the right paint for your house exterior is not just about aesthetics. It’s also essential to consider the climate in your area. For example, if you live in an area with high humidity, it’s best to avoid oil-based paints as they take longer to dry and can be prone to mildew growth.
On the other hand, if you live in an area that experiences harsh sunlight or extremely cold weather conditions, go for a paint brand that offers weather-resistant options.
Ultimately choosing the right type of exterior paint based on your location ensures the durability and longevity of the paint job while adding value and curb appeal to your home.
Choosing The Right Finish
Choosing the right finish for your house exterior is an important decision that can impact the longevity of your paint job. There are three main types of finishes: flat, satin or eggshell, and semi-gloss or high gloss.
Flat finishes have no shine and are best used on older homes with surface imperfections since they hide flaws well. Satin or eggshell finishes have a slight sheen but still provide some camouflage for surface issues while being easy to clean.
Semi-gloss or gloss finishes offer maximum durability due to their hard finish and high shine but make sure your surfaces are in good condition before applying gloss paint because they will show imperfections more visibly than flat or satin/eggshell options.
Deciding On A Color Scheme
Choosing the right color scheme for your house exterior can be a daunting task. The color you pick can make or break your home’s curb appeal and overall look.
When deciding on a color scheme, it’s important to consider factors such as the style of your home, surrounding landscape, and neighborhood aesthetic.
On the other hand, going bold with bright hues like red or blue can add character and personality to modern homes that feature sleek lines and geometric shapes. Whatever color scheme you choose, keep in mind that selecting high-quality paint with good weather resistance is essential for long-term durability against harsh sunlight, rainwater exposure, or snowstorm debris accumulation.
Looking For Durable Paint
When choosing the best paint for your house exterior, durability should be a top consideration. You want to ensure the paint can withstand harsh weather conditions and last several years without fading or peeling.
High-quality paint brands like Sherwin Williams Emerald Exterior and Behr Premium Plus Ultra offer durable enamel finishes that resist cracking, mildew, and flaking.
Additionally, choose paints with high acrylic solids content as they create a strong bond between the surface and the new coat of acrylic paint. Be mindful of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emissions if you or someone in your family has allergies or respiratory issues as some paints emit toxic fumes during application and drying.
The Best Exterior Paint for Your House
As a savvy homeowner, you know that the first impression of your house is crucial for creating a lasting impact. That’s why choosing the right exterior paint is an essential decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly.
By investing in quality products, you can reap the benefits of a fresh, visually appealing exterior that not only enhances your home’s curb appeal but also boosts its resale value and overall aesthetic appeal.
Check out our list of the top 10 best exterior paint brands to cover every square foot of your painting surface imperfections on outdoor surfaces.
| Rank | Brand | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Benjamin Moore Regal Select Exterior | Excellent durability, coverage, and color range |
| 2 | Sherwin-Williams Duration | Superior resistance to weather and fading |
| 3 | BEHR Premium Plus Ultra | High-quality finish with excellent adhesion |
| 4 | Valspar Duramax | All-weather protection and mildew resistance |
| 5 | PPG Timeless | UV protection, fade resistance, and easy cleanup |
| 6 | Glidden Premium | Good coverage, low VOCs, and budget-friendly |
| 7 | Diamond Vogel Endura | Long-lasting color retention and fade resistance |
| 8 | Farrow & Ball Exterior Eggshell | Eco-friendly, water-based, and rich color range |
| 9 | Pratt & Lambert Accolade | Advanced acrylic technology for superior adhesion |
| 10 | Dulux Weathershield | Advanced protection against the elements |
Tips And Techniques For Painting Your House Exterior
Using high-quality paint, properly applying it with the right tools, and considering hiring a professional are just a few of the tips we’ll cover to help you achieve the perfect exterior paint job.
Using High-Quality Paint
Investing in high-quality paint is essential when it comes to painting the exterior of your house. Better quality paint not only provides better coverage but also means fewer painting sessions in the future.
Moreover, using good quality paint reduces the need for multiple coats, which can be time-consuming and costly. Quality paints with durable enamel finish resist cracking, peeling, and flaking due to harsh sunlight or extreme weather conditions.
They emit less or zero volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which are harmful chemicals found in some low-quality paints that could trigger respiratory problems during application or while drying.
Properly Applying The Paint
To achieve a beautiful and long-lasting paint job on your house exterior, it’s essential to properly apply the paint. Here are some tips:
- Use a high-quality brush or roller to ensure even coverage.
- Apply the paint in thin coats, rather than one thick coat.
- Paint from top to bottom, starting with the roof and working downward.
- Paint in small sections and work quickly to avoid overlap marks.
- Make sure each section is completely dry before moving on to the next one.
- Avoid painting in direct sunlight or extreme heat, as this can cause the paint to dry too quickly and lead to cracking or peeling.
- Don’t skimp on paint; applying a second coat can help ensure better coverage and durability.
By following these tips for properly applying the paint, you can achieve a flawless finish that will protect your home’s exterior for years to come.
Choosing The Right Tools
Picking the proper tools can make all the difference in exterior painting. Here are some key items you’ll need:
- Paint brushes: Choose high-quality brushes for smoother coverage and to avoid brush marks.
- Paint rollers: Rollers work best for large, flat surfaces like walls and siding.
- Extension poles: These are useful for reaching high areas without needing a ladder.
- Drop cloths: Protect surrounding areas from paint splatters or spills with drop cloths.
- Paint sprayers: These can be efficient for larger projects but require more skill to use properly.
- Caulk gun: Fill gaps or cracks with caulk before painting to achieve a smooth surface.
- Sandpaper or sanding blocks: Use sandpaper to smooth rough or peeling surfaces before painting.
- Cleaning supplies: Have soap, water, and rags on hand to clean up messes and keep your tools in good condition.
Remember that investing in quality tools will save you time and frustration in the long run, making your paint job look better and last longer.
Working From Top To Bottom
To avoid drip marks and uneven paint application, it is crucial to start painting from the top of your house exterior and work downwards.
This helps to ensure that any drips can be caught before they dry on lower sections of the wall, reducing the need for touch-ups later on.
Another benefit of working from top to bottom is that it helps you keep track of what has already been painted. If you were to start at the bottom first, it would be easy to forget which parts have already been covered with paint.
Using this technique in combination with other best practices such as using high-quality tools and choosing durable paint can help ensure a long-lasting and professional-looking exterior paint job.
Considering Hiring A Professional Painter
While painting the exterior of your house can be an exciting project, it is important to consider hiring a professional painter for the job. Professional painters have years of experience and expertise in the field, ensuring that your house gets an excellent paint job that will last for years to come.
They know exactly which paints and tools are best suited for different types of exteriors and can help you choose the right color and best exterior house paint scheme.
Hiring professionals ensures safety during painting projects involving tall ladders or lead-based paints. Professionals who are skilled at using specialized equipment reduce risks such as falls or inhalation hazards associated with these painting techniques.
Aftercare And Maintenance Tips
Maintaining the paint job, regularly cleaning your exterior, touching up damages immediately, and regularly inspecting for any repairs needed are important steps to ensure a long-lasting and beautiful house exterior.
Maintaining The Paint Job
To keep your exterior looking fresh and vibrant, it’s important to maintain your paint job. Regularly inspecting for any damages or imperfections is key. Touch up any scrapes or chips immediately with the same color paint used during the initial application.
In addition, simple upkeep tasks like trimming bushes away from the house and keeping gutters clear of debris can help prolong your paint job’s longevity.
Regularly Cleaning Your Exterior
Regularly cleaning your exterior is essential for maintaining the longevity of your exterior house paint job. Dirt, grime, and mold can build up on your house over time, causing unsightly stains and even damaging the surface.
To clean your exterior, start by using a soft-bristled brush or pressure washer to remove any loose dirt and debris.
It’s important to avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the paint or siding of your house. Regular cleaning not only keeps your home looking fresh but can also help identify any areas that may need touching up or repairs.
Touching Up Damages Immediately
If you notice any damages such as peeling paint or cracks on your house exterior, it is essential to address them immediately. Touching up these blemishes will not only improve the appearance of your home but also prevent further damage from occurring.
To touch up minor damages, start by scraping off any loose or flaking paint with a scraper or wire brush. Sand the area lightly using sandpaper and then apply a fresh coat of paint over the repaired spot.
Properly maintaining your house exterior by regularly inspecting for damages and touching them up promptly can increase the life of an exterior paint job significantly.
Regularly Inspecting For Any Repairs Needed
It’s crucial to regularly inspect your house exterior after a paint job. This involves walking around the exterior house and perimeter of your home and checking for any signs of peeling, chipping, or flaking paint.
If you notice any areas with damage, it’s important to address them immediately by scraping off the loose paint and repairing the surface before applying a touch-up coat.
According to some professional painters, an exterior paint job can last up to 15 years with proper maintenance. By inspecting your home regularly and making necessary repairs promptly, you’ll help ensure that your investment lasts as long as possible.
Another tip is to clean your house exterior annually using mild soap and water or a pressure washer to prevent dirt buildup, which can cause premature wear on the painted surface.
Conclusion: Achieving A Beautiful And Long-Lasting Paint Job On Your House Exterior
In conclusion, with these 13 tips, you can achieve a beautiful and long-lasting paint job on your house exterior. Remember to inspect the surface, choose the right paint type and color, use high-quality tools, apply multiple coats if needed, and properly maintain your painted surfaces.
With proper care and attention, your exterior paint job can last up to 15 years! So don’t hesitate to invest in quality materials and take the time to do it right.
FAQs:
What are some tips for preparing the house exterior before painting?
Before painting your home’s exterior, it is important to clean the surface thoroughly by power washing and scraping off any loose or peeling paint. You may also need to fill in any cracks or holes with putty and cover surrounding areas like windows and doors with masking tape.
How do I choose the right type of paint for my house exterior?
Choosing the right type of paint for your home’s exterior depends on several factors such as weather conditions, location, previous coating, and personal preference. It is recommended to use high-quality 100% acrylic latex paint that can withstand harsh weather conditions.
Can I paint my house exterior myself or should I hire a professional?
Painting your own house can be a challenging task that requires proper preparation and skilled technique; therefore, it is advisable to hire a professional painter who has experience in this field if you lack knowledge & expertise.
How often should I repaint my house’s exteriors?
The frequency at which you should repaint your home’s exteriors depends on various factors including climate conditions, level of exposure to sunlight/wind, etc., quality of existing coat/paint applied, etc. A general rule of thumb would suggest around every five years – but this will vary depending on individual circumstances mentioned above and could either extend beyond that if climate/other aspects are less severe or require more frequent repainting based upon these variables being more extreme than average (such as homes located near coastal regions).
