You’ve invested time and money into painting your house, so don’t let the elements ruin your hard work. This guide is for you! We’ll explore how to regularly clean and inspect your paintwork, manage mould, repair damage and prevent water woes.
You’ll also understand when it’s time to repaint, which types of paints to choose, how to paint the house exterior yourself, and how much it will cost you to do it.
First, let’s start with how to maintain the exterior house paint with these 7 steps.
1. Clean Your House Exterior Wall Regularly
You’ve got to clean your house exterior walls regularly to keep the paint looking fresh and vibrant. Different cleaning methods may be required depending on the exterior paint type.
A soft brush or low-pressure washer can do the trick for water-based paints. On the other hand, oil-based paints require gentle wiping with a damp cloth.
Start by rinsing the exterior of your home from top to bottom with water. Next, scrub gently but thoroughly with a cleaner suitable for your paint type. Rinse off the soap residue entirely and let it dry naturally.
The process isn’t just about cleanliness; it allows you to inspect your wall’s condition closely.
2. Inspect Paint Damages Regularly
Regularly checking for paint damage is crucial to keep your home looking its best. This exterior paint maintenance task is more manageable than it may sound.
Begin by visually inspecting painted surfaces, paying close attention to areas often exposed to the elements. Look out for signs like peeling, blistering or cracking. Such damages usually indicate issues with the original application or type of paint used. It could also be due to severe weather conditions or an inadequate primer layer beneath the paint.
Next, gently run your hand over the exterior painted surfaces. Any unevenness might suggest underlying problems such as mould growth or water damage.
3. Repair Damaged Surfaces
Before slapping on a fresh coat, you’ll want to repair damaged surfaces. This step is crucial in maintaining your exterior house paint. Start by examining the outer walls closely for cracks, peeling paint, or wood rot.
Use a scraper to remove loose paint and sand it down smoothly for better adherence to new paint.
Fill any holes or cracks with a high-quality exterior spackling compound and let it dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If any areas show wood rot, use a wire brush to remove it and then replace it with a wood patch or putty. Make sure the surface is completely dry before applying any primer or paint.
For large areas of peeling paint, use an electric sander or a chemical paint stripper to remove the old paint. Once you have removed the old paint, use a high-quality paint primer to help the new paint adhere better. Allow the primer to dry completely before applying any paint.
For damaged wood areas, use an epoxy filler; it’s perfect for filling in problematic spots and leaves a surface as hard as the original wood when dried. After repairing these areas, prime them before applying the home’s exterior paint.
4. Check for Water Damage
You’ll want to watch out for any signs of water damage, as it’s a common issue that can severely impact the durability and aesthetics of your home.
Look for peeling or bubbling exterior paint, which often indicates underlying dampness. A routine check for water damage should be part of your overall maintenance tips.
When you spot trouble, don’t delay the repair. Water penetration can lead to rot and mildew issues if ignored. Start by scraping off loose paint around affected areas and then allow them to dry thoroughly before applying new paint.
5. Check the Wall for Mould and Mildew
Checking for mould and mildew on your walls isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s also a vital step in safeguarding your home’s structural integrity. These fungi, especially mould spores, can latch onto the exterior paint and slowly degrade it.
Different types of paints react differently to these issues. For example, oil-based paints are more resistant than water-based or acrylic ones.
To check for mould and mildew issues, look closely at the surface for dark spots or streaks. You might need a ladder to inspect the upper levels. If you discover any problems, don’t panic! A solution of bleach and water can help eliminate them.
6. Trim Plants Close to the Wall
It’s essential to prune plants too close to the wall as they can retain moisture and cause damage over time. This affects the health of your home exterior and jeopardises the durability of your exterior painting job.
Begin by identifying any vegetation touching or overshadowing your walls, then use a pair of sharp pruning shears to trim back the overgrown branches or foliage.
This simple action helps maintain airflow around your property and prevents moisture buildup, which could lead to paint peeling or blistering.
Different types of paint react differently to prolonged exposure to moisture; oil-based paints tend to crack, while latex paints may form bubbles. Therefore, do not underestimate this crucial step in maintaining the visual appeal of your home.
Now it’s time for you to clean your gutter.
7. Clear Your Gutter
It’s time to turn your attention to the gutters and pruned plants to protect your exterior paint job.
You might wonder what gutters have to do with a professional house painter’s work. Quite a lot! Blocked gutters can cause water overflow that damages your paint and cladding.
Regular maintenance is crucial here. Start by clearing debris from the gutter manually or using a leaf blower. Then, flush the gutter with water, checking for leaks or blockages.
Rectify any issues promptly, as neglecting them could lead to more significant problems in the future and potentially compromise your home’s exterior appearance.
How Often Do You Need to Repaint Your House?
How often should you repaint your house with a fresh coat? The answer depends on several factors.
If you’re using high-quality exterior house paint, it’s likely to last longer. Generally speaking, wooden cladding should be repainted every 3-7 years, while aluminium every five years. Render tends to last 5-6 years before needing a refresh.
To maintain the shine and durability of your house’s exterior, follow these steps:
First, inspect for any signs of peeling or fading paint, which can indicate it’s time to repaint your house.
Then, choose the right type of paint that’ll withstand weather conditions in your area.
What Types of Paint to Use for House
What type of house paints are best for your home’s exterior? The answer is emulsion paint. It’s known for its durability and excellent colour retention properties.
When choosing a paint for your home’s exterior, you should consider not only the durability of the paint, but also the effects it can have on the environment. Low-VOC (volatile organic compound) paints are becoming increasingly popular, as they emit fewer pollutants into the environment than conventional paints.
Low-VOC paints are available in a wide variety of colours and finishes, making them a great choice for those wanting to maintain a healthy home environment while still achieving a beautiful look. Additionally, these paints are highly resistant to fading and weathering, so you don’t have to worry about repainting your home too often.
How to Paint Your House Exterior
Following a systematic approach is essential when giving your home’s outer surfaces a new look with acrylic colours. You’ll start by selecting the appropriate exterior paints for your project. Remember, quality matters – it can significantly impact the finish and longevity of the paint job.
Before painting house exterior:
- Ensure all surfaces are clean and dry.
- Apply a primer if needed, then let it dry thoroughly. Once done, you’re ready for the first coat of paint.
- Use long, even strokes for smooth coverage.
Remember that most professionals recommend two coats of paint for optimal durability and colour vibrancy. So, after the first coat dries completely, apply the second one following the same process. It may seem laborious, but trust me—it’s worth it!
How Much Does House Exterior Painting Cost?
Now that you’ve learnt how to paint your house exterior let’s delve into the financial aspect.
Determining the cost of painting house exterior involves various factors. Typically, hiring professional painters can range anywhere from $1,500 for a single-storey house to $12,000 for a 3-storey house, depending on the size and complexity of your home’s exterior.
The type of paint you choose also impacts the overall cost. High-quality paints with weather-resistant properties may have a higher upfront cost but will last longer, saving you money in the long run.
So, before embarking on this project, it’s crucial to research and budget accordingly. Consult with several professional painters for a detailed estimate for your specific needs.
How to Maintain Interior House Paint?
To maintain interior house paint effectively, start by regularly cleaning your walls. Use a soft cloth or sponge with mild soap and water to gently remove dust, dirt, and stains. For tougher marks, a magic eraser can be helpful, but be cautious not to scrub too hard and damage the paint.
Proper ventilation is crucial for preserving your interior paint. Open windows and use fans to circulate air, especially in high-moisture areas like bathrooms and kitchens. This helps prevent mould growth and keeps your paint looking fresh for longer.
Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage. If you notice peeling, bubbling, or cracking, investigate the cause and repair it as soon as possible. These problems often indicate underlying moisture issues that need to be resolved
When hanging items on painted walls, use appropriate hooks or hangers to minimise damage. Avoid using tape or adhesives that can peel off paint when removed. If you do need to patch holes, sand the area smooth and touch up with matching paint.
Finally, consider repainting high-traffic areas every few years to maintain a fresh appearance. This proactive approach can help maintain your interior house paint and keep your home looking its best.