How to Prep Your House For Paint
When it comes to painting the exterior of your home, preparation is key. Proper preparation ensures that the paint will adhere properly and last longer, which means less maintenance for you in the long run. In this article, we’ll cover some of the steps you can take to prep your house for paint, including power washing, scraping, sanding, and filling cracks and holes.
Power washing
The first step in prepping your house for paint is to power wash it. Power washing removes dirt, grime, and other debris from the surface of your home, allowing the paint to adhere properly. You can rent a power washer from a hardware store or hire a professional to do the job for you. When power washing, be sure to use a low-pressure setting to avoid damaging the surface of your home.
Scraping
After power washing, you’ll need to scrape any loose or peeling paint from the surface of your home. This will ensure that the new paint will adhere properly and look smooth. Use a scraper to remove any loose or flaking paint, being careful not to damage the surface of your home. If there are areas where the paint is particularly stubborn, you can use a heat gun or chemical paint stripper to help loosen it.
Sanding
Once you’ve scraped off any loose or peeling paint, you’ll need to sand the surface of your home to smooth it out. Sanding also helps to rough up the surface of your home, which allows the paint to adhere better. Use a medium-grit sandpaper to sand the surface of your home, paying particular attention to any areas that are rough or uneven. Be sure to wear a dust mask to protect yourself from the dust created by sanding.
Filling cracks and holes
Before you can start painting, you’ll need to fill any cracks or holes in the surface of your home. Use a high-quality filler to fill any gaps or cracks in the surface of your home, being sure to smooth it out so that it’s level with the surrounding surface. Once the filler has dried, you can sand it down to make it smooth.
Conclusion
Prepping your house for paint takes time and effort, but it’s well worth it in the long run. By power washing, scraping, sanding, and filling cracks and holes, you’ll ensure that your paint job lasts longer and looks better. Remember to take your time and be thorough in your prepping, and you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful, long-lasting paint job.
