The Do’s & Don’ts Of Exterior Painting

A new coat of paint can transform the outside of your home, making your old and tired home look brand new and modern! Exterior painting is a great way to improve the value of your home, but it can be difficult to do well, especially when compared to interior painting. As professional and experienced painters with years of experience, we have created a list of exterior painting do’s and don’ts to help ensure a successful and long-lasting paint job.

The Don’ts of exterior painting:

1. Don’t paint on a dirty or wet surface:

Painting on a dirty or wet surface can cause the paint to peel or not adhere properly. Make sure the surface is clean and completely dry before starting the painting process.

2. Don’t skip the prep work:

Proper surface preparation is crucial for a successful paint job. Skipping steps like cleaning, sanding, or priming can lead to poor adhesion, blistering, or peeling of the paint.

3. Don’t paint in extreme temperatures:

Avoid painting in very hot or cold weather conditions. High temperatures can cause the paint to dry too quickly, leading to poor adhesion, while low temperatures can affect paint curing and stop it from drying.

4. Don’t overload your brush or roller:

Excess paint on the brush or roller can lead to drips and uneven application. Remove excess paint before applying it to the surface.

5. Don’t ignore safety precautions:

Use proper safety equipment, such as gloves, goggles, and a dust mask, when handling paint and working at heights. Follow manufacturer instructions for safe use of materials and equipment.

6. Don’t rush the process:

Take your time when painting the exterior. Rushing can result in sloppy workmanship, uneven coverage, and the need for additional touch-ups later on.

7. Don’t neglect maintenance:

After completing the exterior painting, regularly inspect the painted surfaces for any signs of damage or wear. Perform touch-ups as needed to maintain the appearance and protect the underlying surface.

The Do’s Of exterior painting:

1. Clean and Prepare The Surface

Thoroughly clean the exterior surface before painting to remove dirt, debris, and loose paint. Use a pressure washer or scrub with a brush and mild detergent, and allow sufficient drying time before painting. This makes sure that the paint looks great and lasts a long time.

2. Prime the surface:

Apply a primer to bare wood, metal, or other porous surfaces. Priming helps the paint adhere better and provides a uniform base for the topcoat, which will lead to a more even and quality finish.

3. Protect surrounding areas:

Cover windows, doors, plants, and other areas you don’t want to be painted with drop cloths or plastic sheeting. This will prevent accidental paint splatters and make cleanup easier.

4. Work in suitable weather conditions:

Choose a time when the weather is dry, mild, and not too windy. Avoid painting in direct sunlight or when rain is expected, as extreme temperatures and moisture can affect the paint’s performance.

5. Apply multiple thin coats:

Instead of applying a thick coat of paint, apply multiple thin coats. This allows for better adhesion and reduces the chances of drips and uneven coverage.

6. Be careful when working on a ladder or at heights

We also recommend hiring a professional painter with the training and equipment for working at heights. Accidents on ladders and at heights happen all the time around the home and are usually avoidable. They’re so common in the workplace, they are one of the leading causes of workplace injury or accidental death.

Should I hire a professional painter for exterior painting?

When painting the exterior, it can seem a little bit overwhelming. Many DIY painters ask questions like where’s the best place to start, what paint should I buy, what colour is the right choice for my home, what equipment do I need etc. The above Do’s & Don’ts only highlight a few important pieces of information that you should know before painting your home. Every house and job is different and will require special attention to ensure it looks its best for years to come. Working at heights is also usually required, and can be incredibly dangerous if not done properly and with a great deal of care.

If you’re not sure about painting your home, it’s always best to hire a professional painter. They have the experience and knowledge to paint your home with a quality finish you’ll be incredibly happy with. Painters have the equipment and training to work safely from heights, meaning they can paint your home without risking damage to you or your property. If you’d like to learn more about why we recommend hiring a professional painter, check out our blog titled 5 Reasons To Hire A Professional Painter.

Free Exterior House Painting Quote

Ready to get started painting the outside of your Brisbane home? Contact Jon Hinde Painting today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced painters. We’ll work with you to ensure your home looks great, is finished on time and is a competitive price. Give Jon Hinde painting a call on 0424 658 531 today – don’t wait!