Before tackling an exterior paint job, do an inspection to identify any potential problems:
- Be sure to trim bushes 12 inches away from the house foundation to allow for proper air circulation.
- Clean gutters at least twice a year to avoid an ice dam, dirt and mildew. Seamless gutters look nice and help to avoid moisture problems/rust.
- Remove ivy and scrape residue with a wire brush. Ivy causes weakness in mortar and can push its way behind siding.
- Check attic vents and be sure not to paint the screens to allow for proper air circulation.
- Control pests with caulk, weather stripping, prime and paint.
Exterior Painting Tips:
- Use the right-sized scraper to remove old paint. Sand with 100-grit paper, prime and paint.
- Most paint failure is due to dirt. Use a cleaning solution to remove build-up on siding. Scrub well if necessary and rinse thoroughly.
- Be sure to paint in the shade on a bright day.
- Pour paint in a five-gallon bucket (it can be covered when not in use) and use a paint screen (cleaner than a tray).
- Paint about three pieces of siding in small sections from side to side, working from the top to the bottom of the house. Cut-in under grooves with a brush and fill section with a roller to save time. As a final step, lay-off paint with the brush in the direction of the siding. This creates smooth brush strokes and an even application .
paint for exterior (Dutch Boy):
body of home (Petrified Forest 29-G-3) ( discontinued)
trim (Candlewood Hill 3I-4)
windows (Medici Ivory R182A) (discontinued)
sills (Woodcut R232B) (discontinued)
door (Castleberry 17B-6)
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