Why preparation is crucial
Preparation is about 80% of an exterior painting job. Skip it, and even the best paint will fail early. That is why we follow a strict preparation process on every home we paint.
Step 1: Complete inspection
Before any work begins, walk around the entire house and look for:
- Peeling or cracking paint
- Rotted or damaged wood
- Cracks in the siding
- Mold or mildew
- Worn-out caulk
Step 2: Pressure washing
Washing removes built-up dirt, mold and mildew, loose paint, and pollen and other contaminants. Allow 24 to 48 hours of drying time before moving on.
Step 3: Repairs
Damaged wood: replace rotted boards before painting, because paint will not protect wood that is already damaged.
Cracks and holes: fill every crack with a quality exterior filler to keep water out.
Caulking: re-caulk around windows and doors and at every joint where different materials meet.
Step 4: Sanding
Sand any peeling areas so the surface is smooth and even.
Step 5: Priming
Prime bare or new wood, patched areas, spots with water or smoke stains, and very porous surfaces.
Weather matters
- Temperatures between 50°F and 85°F
- Humidity below 85%
- 24 hours of dry weather before and after painting
Conclusion
Good preparation helps exterior paint last 7 to 10 years. All of this prep work is included in our exterior painting service, and pressure washing is also available on its own. We serve New Bedford, Fall River, Boston and the rest of Massachusetts. Call (774) 301-1382 for a free estimate.
