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How to Prepare Your Home for Exterior Painting

Exterior Painting | July 12, 2023

When it comes to enhancing the curb appeal of your home, a fresh coat of paint can do wonders; however, the key to a long-lasting and visually striking paint job lies in the preparation. At Dunbar Painting, we have put together a step-by-step guide on how to prepare your home for exterior painting, ensuring you get the best results possible from the start.

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1. Clean

Your home’s exterior surfaces are continually exposed to dust, dirt, mildew, and grease, which can significantly hinder paint adhesion. Before painting the exterior of your home, it is crucial to clean all surfaces thoroughly, using a blend of water and a mild detergent or a specified house wash solution. Pressure washing can also be an effective way to eliminate stubborn dirt and grime, leaving your home ready for a fresh coat of paint.

2. Sand

All failing or flaking paint should be sanded down until the edges are no longer peeling. The aim is to achieve a smooth surface where the new paint can adhere properly, resulting in a uniform and professional finish.

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3. Scuff Sand Shiny Surfaces

Shiny or glossy surfaces often resist new paint, leading to poor adhesion. Scuff sanding these areas will create a slightly rough texture, improving paint adhesion. Fine-grit sandpaper is typically used for this process to ensure the surface remains smooth and ready for painting.

4. Caulk Gaps

Caulking is an essential step in preparing your home for exterior painting. It involves sealing all gaps, cracks, and joints in your home’s exterior where water could potentially penetrate. A high-quality, paintable exterior caulk should be used to prevent moisture intrusion and subsequent damage.

5. Prime Bare Wood

If your home’s exterior has any bare wood, it should be primed before painting. Priming not only provides an additional layer of protection against the elements but also enhances paint adhesion, leading to a smoother and more durable paint job.

6. Mask Surfaces

To ensure a clean, mess-free paint job, all non-paintable surfaces should be covered or masked. This includes windows, doors, light fixtures, and any other surface you want to protect from paint splatter. Using quality painter’s tape and drop cloths can prevent unintentional staining and make the painting process much cleaner.

Preparing your home for exterior painting might seem like an overwhelming task, but these steps ensure a quality finish, greater durability, and an enhanced aesthetic appeal. At Dunbar Painting, we believe in doing the job right the first time, providing professional prep work and painting services to homes throughout Vancouver, BC. If you are looking for insights or are ready to freshen up your home’s exterior, reach out to us today by filling out our online form.


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