How to make your exterior paint job last longer is an inquiry we hear all the time.  A professional paint job not only enhances your curb appeal in a big way, but it is your protection against weather damage.  Repainting your home’s exterior is a big investment, but it can last up to a decade… if it’s done right.  So whether you are going to do-it-yourself or call a professional, here are some tips that will keep your home looking beautiful between paintings.

PREP THE EXTERIOR PROPERLY

Proper preparation is the key to getting a great result.  Surfaces must be properly prepared to ensure the durability of the paint.  Any loose paint should be scraped off and smoothed out.  Chips, dings and cracks need to be filled and sanded.  Areas around doors and windows should be checked to see that they are properly caulked.  Any other imperfections should be addressed before painting starts.

Dirt, grime. grease, mildew and other types of residue prevent proper paint adhesion.  Even if the surface appears to be clean, there are undoubtedly some substances adhering to it.  Therefore, cleaning/pressure washing the house is a necessary step.  Not only is this a critical step, but it must be done with care.  Too much pressure or harsh cleaning agents can do more harm then good, so if this is a DIY project be sure to educate yourself about pressure washing to get this step right.

how to make exterior paint last

APPLY PRIMER

A high-quality, tinted primer base coat beneath the top coat is important to extending the life of your paint job.  This resin-based material acts as the initial coating of the paint job, effectively sealing and protecting the underlying surface.  It helps smooth imperfections, improves paint adhesion and reduces chipping, bubbling and flaking.  Primer also covers caulked areas and upholds the luster and uniformity of the finish coat. 

USE THE RIGHT PAINT TYPE

Choosing the right type of high-quality paint for the exterior of your home is essential to achieving a beautiful, durable finish.  Never skimp when it comes to buying paint for the exterior of your home.  While there are a number of great exterior paints, Sherwin Williams Duration stands out as the number one longest-lasting exterior house paint on the market, according to Consumer Reports. At ColaTown Painting we asses the project and help you choose the best paint for your home.  While Sherwin Williams is our preferred brand, we use any brand our client selects.  

For most exterior paint jobs acrylic latex paint works best.  This versatile paint can be used over water-based and oil-based primers and offer the following benefits:

  • Fade resistant
  • Won’t mildew easily
  • Helps prevent blistering
  • Environmental friendly (compared to oil-based paints)
  • Easy clean up and quick dry time
  • Long-lasting and water resistant

PROTECT THE PAINT FROM MOISTURE

Now that your home has a beautiful, long-lasting coat of paint, go the extra mile to protect the paint from water and moisture.  Make sure that trees and shrubs are cut away from the walls so moisture doesn’t drip from branches and leaves onto your home.  Also, make sure that water does not pool or puddle in certain areas on your exterior.  Finally, make sure your sprinklers do not get water on painted surfaces.

moisturemoisturemoisture                                                                                                                 Avoid moisture near your painted surfaces

FINAL THOUGHTS

The biggest payoffs in following these guidelines are delaying the next occasion when your exterior needs to be repainted and avoiding damage to your home.  Our mission at ColaTown Painting is to provide you with the highest quality finish and the best painting experience possible.  We would love to help you create the home of your dreams, both inside and out.  Call Britt – 803-603-6486 or e-mail ellisb@colatownpainting.com to book a free, no-obligation estimate.  You’ll be glad you did.

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