Painting your home’s exterior can make a big difference in its appearance and value. But it can also be a daunting project that requires extensive preparation and repair work.

Hiring a professional painter can save you time, money and headaches. But how do you choose the right one? Here are a few tips from pros in the industry.
Preparation
Painting an exterior house is a big job, and it requires extensive surface preparation. The prep work involves power washing surfaces, scraping loose paint, priming bare wood, and caulking cracks. This work accounts for at least 60% of the total labor cost for an exterior painting project.

It’s important to do a thorough inspection of your home before beginning the preparation process. This will help you determine how much time it will take to complete the exterior paint job. It also allows you to spot problems that require attention before the painting begins.
If your home has rotted siding, trim, or damaged shingles, this will increase the amount of time it takes to prepare the home for painting. You’ll also need to repair any gaps in the siding or around window and door frames.

Another common problem with exterior painting is the deterioration of the paint due to weathering. Over time, the paint loses its strength and dries to the point of peeling, bubbling, or blistering. It is very important to make sure that your paint job lasts.
Before starting the prep work, check if your house has any lead paint. If it does, you’ll need to hire a contractor who is certified in lead abatement to remove the old paint.

After you’ve removed the old paint, sand your walls to create a smooth, clean surface that will adhere well to new paint. The sanding process also helps the primer and paint to bond with the surface and smoothes it for a better finish.

You may also need to fill in small cracks or holes with a filler. This can be done before painting, or after painting to prevent a patchy finish.

Once the surfaces are sanded, apply a primer to your home’s exterior. This step can be especially critical if you’re using oil-based paint, as it helps to lock in the previous coat of paint.
During this stage, you should also check for any loose nails or rotten wood. If you notice any of these problems, you’ll need to replace them before the painting process begins.
Painting
Painting is one of the most important stages of a home improvement project. It can increase your property’s value, and it also protects your home from the elements. However, exterior painting can be complicated and time-consuming.

In order to get the best results from your paint job, you need a professional exterior painter who is committed to delivering quality service. The right contractor will prepare the walls and other surfaces properly, use the proper painting products and apply multiple coats of paint so that the finished product will look as good as possible.

Before the paint is applied, the walls and other surfaces need to be cleaned and sanded down. This will ensure that the new paint adheres to the surface and that it doesn’t flake or peel off later on.

Another critical step is to remove all loose or damaged paint and replace it with fresh, clean paint. This will make the surface more durable and help prevent mold, mildew or other problems from developing.

Then, it is important to choose a good-quality paint that will stand up to the harsh weather and environmental conditions. Ideally, you should choose a paint that is made specifically for outdoor use and has been designed to withstand water, fading and temperature changes.

Aside from choosing the best paint for your specific needs, you should also choose the right shade of color. You can use a color guide to choose the appropriate shade for your house.

Once you’ve chosen the right paint for your home, the next step is to choose an exterior painter. You should find a local contractor with experience and a positive reputation in the community.

You should ask for references and a list of previous clients. You should also check online reviews for the company you’re considering. You should not hire an exterior painter who charges obscene fees upfront.

Finally, you should make sure that the contractor has a license to operate in your area. This will help you feel confident in your decision to hire them. There are many unscrupulous painters out there who will take advantage of your budget and do shoddy work.
Finishing
Painting, whether indoors or out, is a powerful decorating tool that helps preserve and protect metal, wood and other materials exposed to weather. It's also a way to create a unique look for your home. Choosing the right paint finish is crucial to creating the look you want.

There are several different types of paint finishes available, including flat, satin and semi-gloss. Each one offers different benefits for specific applications.

If you're unsure of what kind of paint is best for your project, visit your local Benjamin Moore retailer to ask for their recommendations. They'll be able to help you determine which finish is best for your exterior walls, siding and trim details.
Using the wrong type of paint can make your home look dated and unappealing, especially in areas that get a lot of exposure to sunlight. You'll also need to consider the durability of your paint and how it will hold up to frequent cleaning.

For example, if you have young children or live in an HOA community, consider choosing a paint that's more resistant to staining and easier to clean. High-quality paints have higher pigment levels and resins, making them a more durable choice for areas that receive a lot of wear.

Another option is water-based paint. These are easy to apply and dry quickly. They also have less odor and are environmentally friendly.

A professional contractor will know how to prep the surface for painting, which may involve washing it with a power washer or wiping it down with a detergent and water. They'll also ensure that the surface is completely dry before applying the paint, to help it stick.
Some painters have specialized finishing skills that allow them to achieve unique effects. These can include stains, textured paints or even metallic and suede emulsions that will add a new dimension to your design.

A quality contractor will be willing to show you the finished product before accepting any money. They will also be prepared to stand by their work if problems arise. Lastly, they should have liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage to protect you and your home from any injuries that might occur during the painting process.
Maintenance
The exterior of your property’s walls and siding take a beating from the elements, which can result in stains, cracking, and other damage. This is why it is important to have your building’s paint maintained regularly. An exterior painter can offer a range of maintenance and repair services that will keep your home or business looking good for years to come.

A good painting contractor will take the time to check all of the exterior areas of your property before they begin work. This way, they can identify any areas that need attention and fix them before they start painting.

They will also check for any cracks and rust, which can be signs that the paint is starting to deteriorate. They will also inspect the caulking and ensure it is in good shape. This will prevent water from entering the building and causing damage to the paint and other surfaces.
It is important to choose a paint that is formulated for outdoor use. This will help it to last longer and be more durable. Some brands, such as Benjamin Moore, offer paints that are infused with Gennex Color Technology, which means they won’t fade or chalk after a few years of exposure to the sun.

Another important tip for keeping your home’s exterior paint in good condition is to make sure it is washed regularly. A good cleaning will remove dust, dirt, pollen, and other contaminants that can eat away at the paint. It will also keep the paint looking fresh and vibrant for a long time to come.

In addition, it is a good idea to have your house sprayed off regularly to eliminate salts and other harsh chemicals that can corrode the paint. This can be done with a garden hose, or you can hire a pressure washing service to do it for you.
A professional exterior painter will also be able to recommend products that will extend the life of your home’s exterior paint. These may include stain repellents, primers, and sealers that can be used to protect your home from the elements.

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