Adam McElwee
5 Tips for Preparing Your Home's Exterior Walls for Painting

Preparing your home's exterior walls for painting is just as important as preparing the interior walls. Proper preparation will ensure that the paint job looks professional and lasts for years to come. In this blog post, we'll provide you with five tips on how to prepare your home's exterior walls for painting.
Clean the Walls
The first step in preparing your home's exterior walls for painting is to clean the surface thoroughly. Use a pressure washer or a garden hose with a high-pressure nozzle to remove dirt, grime, and any loose paint. If there are any areas with stubborn stains, use a scrub brush and a cleaning solution to remove them. Allow the walls to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Repair Any Damage
Inspect the walls for any damage, such as cracks, holes, or rotting wood. Repair any damage before painting to ensure that the surface is smooth and even. Use a wood filler or caulk to fill in any cracks or holes, and replace any rotted wood. Sand the surface smooth once the repairs have dried.
Scrape and Sand the Surface
If there is any old or loose paint on the walls, it's important to scrape and sand the surface before painting. Use a paint scraper to remove any loose paint, and then sand the surface smooth with a fine-grit sandpaper. This will create a smooth surface for the new paint to adhere to.
Protect the Surrounding Area
Before you start painting, it's important to protect the surrounding area from paint splatters and spills. Cover any nearby plants, windows, and fixtures with plastic sheeting or drop cloths. Use painter's tape to protect any trim or fixtures that you don't want to paint.
Prime the Walls
Finally, it's a good idea to prime the walls before painting. Priming will help the paint adhere better to the surface and provide a more even finish. Use a high-quality primer that is appropriate for the type of paint you'll be using, and apply it evenly to the entire surface of the walls. Allow the primer to dry completely before moving on to the final step.
By following these five tips, you'll be able to properly prepare your home's exterior walls for painting. This will help ensure that your paint job looks professional and lasts for years to come. Remember to clean the walls, repair any damage, scrape and sand the surface, protect the surrounding area, and prime the walls before painting. With a little bit of effort and patience, you'll be able to transform the look of your home's exterior and create a space that you'll love for years to come.