Do’s and Don’ts of Painting the Exterior of Your House

Painting the exterior of your house might seem like a Herculean task, but it doesn’t have to be. This guide aims to equip you with the do’s and don’ts of exterior house painting, paving the way for an end result you can be proud of.

The Value of a Good Exterior Paint Job

A well-executed paint job not only protects the exterior of your home from harsh weather conditions, but it also boosts its resale value. You see, first impressions matter—especially when it comes to real estate. A fresh coat of paint can make a big difference.

Enhancing Curb Appeal

Curb appeal, or how appealing your home looks from the street, is significantly impacted by the quality of your exterior paint job. The right colors and a clean finish can make your home stand out—for all the right reasons.

The Do’s of Painting the Exterior of Your House

Do Choose the Right Time of Year

Weather plays a significant role in how well your paint job turns out. Optimal painting conditions are typically in the spring or fall when temperatures are mild and humidity is low.
Do Prepare the Surface Properly

Any dirt, mildew, or chalking must be removed before painting begins. Power washing is often an effective way to clean the surface. Patch any holes and sand smooth for best results.
Do Pick the Right Paint

There are 3 main paint formulas used on exterior surfaces: acrylic, latex and oil-based paints, and all 3 have their best-case uses. Your paint professional can help you decide which is best for your particular needs.
Do Consider the Type of Surface

Different materials require different types of paint. A professional can provide guidance on the best options for your home.
Do Think About the Weather

Certain paints and finishes are more durable against harsh weather conditions than others. Think about your local climate when making your selection.

The Don’ts of Painting the Exterior of Your House

Don’t Skimp on Prep Work

Proper preparation is key to a successful paint job. Cutting corners on prep work can result in a subpar finish and durability issues down the line.
Don’t Paint Over Rotten Wood

Rotten wood or siding material must be replaced or repaired before you start painting. Painting over rotten wood is a temporary fix that can lead to bigger problems in the future.
Don’t Neglect Safety Precautions

Safety should always come first. Use ladders and other equipment correctly, and wear appropriate safety gear, particularly when dealing with older homes that may have lead-based paint.

Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a homeowner looking to hire a professional, understanding these do’s and don’ts of exterior house painting can help ensure a successful project. Paint is more than just a color—it’s a layer of protection for your investment. And remember, quality counts in both the products you choose and the preparation of surfaces. So, why wait? Spruce up your home’s exterior now!

FAQs

What is the best time of year to paint the exterior of my house?

The best time is usually during spring or fall, when there are milder temperatures and low humidity.

How do I prepare the surface of my house for painting?

You should clean the surface thoroughly, remove any old paint, patch holes, and sand the surface for a smooth finish.

Can I paint over rotten wood?

No, it’s important to replace or repair any rotten wood or siding before painting.

What type of paint should I use for the exterior of my house?

The type of paint will depend on the material of your exterior. A professional can help you decide the best option.

What safety precautions should I take when painting the exterior of my house?

Be sure to use ladders and other equipment correctly, and always wear appropriate safety gear. Extra caution should be taken when dealing with older homes that might have lead-based paint.

If you need professional assistance in painting the exterior of your house or want to book a free consultation, feel free to fill out our contact form or call Slipstream Painting at 210-361-9515. Happy painting!

Why Choose Us?

FAIR PRICES.
Not only do we offer competitive, transparent and fair pricing, we do not require any money until the job is complete. We’re that confident in our talented and skillful employees, in our attention to detail and in our customer service before, during and after the job is complete.

QUALITY WORKMANSHIP.
The backbone of our business is two-fold: exceptional customer service and a high-quality end result. Our employees are talented, and our work speaks for itself. Once your project is complete, you’ll have no doubt that we take pride in a job well done.

LOW VOC PAINTS.
Paint technology has come a long way in the last few years, and we are proud to use low VOC paints whenever we can. Your health plus the health of your children and pets is the reason we will opt for this type of paint when appropriate for the project.

RELIABLE SERVICE.
Not only do we offer high quality work, we are reliable and actually show up to do that work. We know finding reliable and talented crews can be a challenge in this industry, and we strive to set ourselves apart: we’ll be there when we say we’ll be there.

Testimonials

TO DIY OR TO GO WITH THE PROS?

The best way to prevent messes and mistakes is by hiring a professional painting company like Slipstream. We’ll also bring all the supplies we need to get your project painted quickly and accurately – you don’t need to provide any tools or equipment. Our painters are experts and know how to work without dripping paint everywhere, how to paint with clean lines and how to leave your walls streak-free. Best of all, you won’t have to worry about cleaning up the mess—that’s OUR job.