The exterior of your home is not only the first thing people see, but it’s also the first line of defense against weather and other external factors. Keeping your home’s exterior looking fresh and new can be a perplexing task. With the right approach, however, it can be accomplished with ease. From choosing the best quality paint and prepping your home’s exterior to protecting it from the elements and regular maintenance, there are many ways to ensure that your painted exterior looks as good as new for years to come. In this article, we’ll discuss 10 proven ways to keep your painted exterior looking fresh and new.
Choose the Best Quality Paint
Picking the right paint for your home’s exterior is a critical step to ensure that it looks beautiful for years to come. Quality paint not only enhances the curb appeal of your property but also keeps your house protected against harsh weather elements. With so many types, finishes, and colors available, it can be challenging to choose the best. However, picking high-quality paint is just the first step; you also need to consider the type of paint, finish, and color that will work best for your home’s architecture and location. In this section, we’ll dive into the various factors you should consider when choosing paint for your home’s exterior.
Choose the Right Paint Type
One of the most critical decisions in exterior painting is choosing the right paint type. Quality paint will not only enhance the beauty of your home’s exterior but also provide long-lasting protection to the surface. It’s essential to consider the kind and quality of paint before starting any painting project. Choosing the right paint type depends on various factors such as the weather, surface type, and personal preferences.
Oil-Based vs. Latex Paint:
Two types of paint are commonly used for the exterior: oil-based and latex paint. Oil-based paint is durable, resistant to stains, and has a smoother finish. However, it takes more time to dry and requires mineral spirits for cleaning. On the other hand, latex paint dries quicker, is easy to clean, and resists fading, cracking, and peeling. It’s also more environmentally friendly than oil-based paint.
Primers:
Priming the surface before painting is recommended for better adhesion and coverage. Primers also increase the life of the paint and protect the surface from moisture and mold. It’s essential to choose a primer that’s compatible with both paint and surface type. Some types of paint come with a built-in primer, but it’s still essential to ensure its compatibility with the surface.
Acrylic vs. Alkyd Primers:
Acrylic primers are water-based, quick-drying, and have low VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) than oil-based primers. They’re ideal for surfaces that have never been painted before, such as new wood or drywall. Alkyd primers are oil-based and provide better adhesion than acrylics. They’re suitable for surfaces that have previously been painted with oil-based paint.
Speciality Paints:
Some surfaces and conditions require specialty paints to ensure the best results. For example, if your home’s exterior is prone to mildew and mold, you may want to consider using anti-microbial paint. If you live in an area that experiences extreme temperature changes, you may want to consider using temperature-resistant paint. For surfaces that need to breathe, such as brick and stucco, it’s recommended to use a breathable paint that allows moisture to escape.
Choosing the right paint type is a critical step in ensuring a successful exterior painting project. It determines not only the look of your home’s exterior but also how long the paint will last. Keep in mind the factors mentioned above when choosing the type of paint, and always do your research. Once you’ve chosen the right paint, it’s time to move on to the next crucial step, which is to prepare your home’s exterior surface.
Preventing fading paint is essential, so it’s imperative to choose a paint type that resists fading, cracking, and peeling.
Choosing the Right Finish
Choosing the right finish is an essential step in keeping your painted exterior looking fresh and new. The finish you select will dictate how well your paint job stands up against the elements, how easily you can clean the surface, and how shiny or matte the final result will be. Here are some important factors to consider when choosing the right finish for your exterior paint:
- Gloss: Different finishes offer varying levels of glossiness. High gloss finishes are reflective and shiny, while matte finishes are more subdued. Semi-gloss and satin finishes are somewhere in between. For exterior painted surfaces, it’s usually advisable to opt for a semi-gloss or satin finish. These finishes can help hide surface imperfections and are better at repelling moisture than flat finishes.
- Durability: If your home is in an area with harsh weather conditions, you need to choose a finish that is durable enough to withstand the elements. Generally, the higher the gloss level, the more durable the finish will be. However, keep in mind that glossier finishes also tend to show wear and tear more easily, so it is a trade-off.
- Cleanability: Different finishes are easier or harder to clean. For example, high gloss finishes are the easiest to clean, as they are the least porous. Flat finishes, on the other hand, are harder to clean and can be easily marked or stained. Consider the amount of maintenance you are willing to commit to when choosing your finish.
Choosing the right finish requires careful consideration of your home’s location, your climate, and your personal preferences. It’s always best to consult a professional before selecting a specific finish for your exterior paint job.
Pick the Right Color
Choosing the right paint color for your home’s exterior is an important decision. It is something that you will see every day and can impact the overall value of your property. Here are some tips to help you pick the perfect color for your home:
Consider the architecture of your home: The style of your home can help guide you in choosing the perfect color. For example, a Victorian-style home may look best with more vibrant and bold colors, while a more modern home may look better with more neutral colors.
Consider the neighborhood: While you want to choose a color that you love, it is also important to keep in mind the surrounding homes in your neighborhood. You don’t want your home to stick out like a sore thumb or clash with the other homes.
Test the color: Always test the paint color on a small area of your home before committing to it. Viewing the color in different lighting conditions and at different times of day can also help you make a more informed decision.
Think about resale value: If you plan on selling your home in the future, keep in mind that certain colors can increase or decrease the value of your home. Neutral, classic colors are usually a safer bet for resale value.
Consider the landscape: Take into account the colors of any surrounding landscape such as trees, flowers, and greenery. A color that complements the surroundings can add to the overall aesthetic of your home.
When choosing the right color for your home’s exterior, it is important to take your time and make an informed decision. Now that you’ve picked the perfect color, it’s time to prep the surface for painting. Check out our article on how to fix peeling paint on your house for helpful tips.
Prep Your Home’s Exterior
The key to a successful exterior paint job is not just the quality of the paint or the color you choose. Rather, it’s the prep work that goes into it that sets the stage for a long-lasting finish. Before you start painting, you need to thoroughly prepare your home’s exterior. This includes cleaning the surface, fixing any imperfections, and removing loose paint. By taking the time to prep your home’s exterior, you’ll ensure that the paint adheres properly, looks great, and lasts as long as possible. To learn more about the importance of home exterior maintenance, check out this helpful article on why it matters.
Clean the Surface Thoroughly
To ensure a long-lasting paint job on your home’s exterior, it’s crucial to clean the surface thoroughly before painting. A dirty surface will prevent the paint from properly adhering and can lead to flaking and peeling.
To start, use a scraper or wire brush to remove any loose or peeling paint. Be sure to wear protective gloves and eyewear, as well as a mask to avoid inhaling any debris.
Next, use a power washer or hose to wash away any dirt, dust, or grime. If there are areas of mold or mildew, use a mixture of bleach and water to scrub them down.
After cleaning, allow the surface to fully dry before proceeding. This can take up to 24 hours, depending on the weather conditions.
It’s important to inspect the surface closely for any remaining imperfections, such as cracks or gaps, and touch them up before painting.
By taking the time to thoroughly clean and prepare the exterior surface, you’ll ensure a smooth and even paint job that will last for years to come. And to make touch-ups easier down the road, consider investing in the best tools for exterior painting touch-ups.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| The paint will properly adhere to the surface | It may take more time and effort to clean the surface thoroughly |
| The paint job will look smooth and even | The surface may take up to 24 hours to dry completely |
| Any imperfections can be addressed before painting | There may still be some debris that could impact the paint job |
Fix the Surface Imperfections
One of the most important steps in keeping your painted exterior looking fresh and new is to fix any surface imperfections before painting. Here are some tips to help you do this:
- Inspect the exterior of your home for any signs of damage, such as cracks, holes, or gaps in the siding, trim, or fascia.
- Use a scraper or putty knife to remove any loose or peeling paint around the damaged areas.
- Fill any cracks or holes with a high-quality exterior wood filler or caulking.
- Sand the surface of the filled areas until they are smooth and level with the surrounding surface.
- Apply a primer to the repaired areas before painting to ensure proper adhesion of the paint.
By taking the time to fix any surface imperfections before painting, you can ensure that your paint job will look smooth and even, and that your home will be protected from moisture and other environmental damage. This step is crucial in maintaining the longevity of your paint job and avoiding the need for frequent repainting. For more information on exterior home maintenance, check out our article on exterior home repaint frequency and our tips on keeping walls mold-free.
Remove Loose and Flaking Paint
Before painting your home’s exterior, it’s important to remove any loose or flaking paint to ensure a smooth and even surface. Here are some steps to follow for removing loose and flaking paint:
- Scrape off loose paint: Use a paint scraper or putty knife to gently scrape away any loose paint from the surface. Be careful not to apply too much pressure as you could damage the underlying surface.
- Use a wire brush: Once you have removed the majority of loose paint, use a wire brush to remove any remaining flakes or chips. Make sure to use a brush with stiff bristles to ensure a thorough clean.
- Sand the surface: Once you have removed as much loose paint as possible, use sandpaper to smooth out the surface. Start with a coarse grit sandpaper to remove any remaining flakes and follow up with a finer grit sandpaper to create a smooth finish.
- Clean the surface: After sanding, wipe down the surface with a clean, damp cloth to remove any dust or debris. Allow the surface to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
- Prime the surface: If you have removed a significant amount of paint, it may be necessary to prime the surface before painting. This will ensure that the new paint adheres properly and looks smooth and even. Consult with a professional painter or check the manufacturer’s recommendations for the appropriate primer to use.
By taking the time to properly remove loose and flaking paint, you can ensure a high-quality paint job that will last for years to come. Failure to remove loose paint can cause the new paint to peel or crack prematurely, leading to the need for frequent touch-ups and repainting.
Protect Your Exterior from Elements
As much as we’d like to keep our painted exterior looking like new forever, the weather can be unkind. Sun, wind and rain can all take their toll on our home, causing paint to become faded, peeled or damaged. But fear not! There are several proven ways to protect your exterior from the elements and keep your painted surfaces looking bright, shiny and fresh. From adequate ventilation to regular cleaning and protection from UV rays and moisture, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive in and explore some tips and tricks for keeping your painted exterior in top form.
Provide Adequate Ventilation
One important step to ensure the longevity of your painted exterior is to provide adequate ventilation. Proper ventilation helps prevent the buildup of moisture, which can lead to mold, mildew, and eventually, peeling paint. There are several measures you can take to ensure that your home has sufficient ventilation, as shown in the table below.
| Measure | Description |
|---|---|
| Install vents | Proper ventilation can be achieved by installing vents on your roof or eaves. This allows air to circulate and prevents moisture buildup in your attic and other enclosed spaces. |
| Use exhaust fans | Bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms produce a lot of moisture. Install exhaust fans in these areas to remove the humidity and protect your interior and exterior from damage. |
| Open windows | Take advantage of good weather by opening windows and letting fresh air circulate. This will help dry out any moisture that may be trapped in your home. |
| Trim back foliage | Plants and trees growing too close to your home can impede air circulation and trap moisture. Trim back any foliage or branches that may be blocking air flow to your home. |
Providing adequate ventilation is crucial to maintaining your home’s exterior. By following these measures, you can help prevent moisture buildup and ultimately prolong the life of your painted surface.
Regular Cleaning
Keeping your painted exterior clean is essential to its longevity. Regular cleaning can remove dirt, grime, and other buildup that can damage or dull the paint. Here are some tips for effective and safe cleaning of your painted exterior:
- Use the Right Tools: Use a soft-bristled brush or a gentle pressure washer to avoid damaging the paint.
- Choose the Right Cleaning Solution: Use a mild detergent solution that is safe for painted surfaces. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasives that can scratch or strip the paint.
- Clean from the Top Down: Start from the top of your home and work your way down to avoid streaking or re-soiling already cleaned surfaces.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the surface thoroughly with a hose or pressure washer to avoid leaving residue or streaks.
- Be Careful with Windows: Protect windows from cleaning solution and avoid excess water that can seep through window frames and cause damage.
Regular cleaning is important because it not only helps to keep the paint looking fresh, but it can also prevent damage caused by buildup of dirt, grime, and other contaminants. A clean painted exterior is always more attractive and welcoming, and regular cleaning is a great way to boost your home’s curb appeal.
Protect Against Moisture
One of the biggest threats to the exterior of your home is moisture. Without proper protection, moisture can seep into your home’s siding, causing mold, mildew, and even structural damage. To protect your home from moisture damage, here are some proven ways to keep your painted exterior looking fresh and new.
1. Install Gutters and Downspouts: Gutters and downspouts are a critical component of your home’s exterior. They help to redirect rainwater away from your house, preventing water from pooling around the foundation and causing damage. Be sure to keep your gutters clean and free of debris to ensure they function properly.
2. Seal Cracks and Gaps: Any cracks or gaps in your home’s siding can allow moisture to seep in, causing damage over time. Be sure to inspect your home’s exterior regularly for any cracks, gaps, or holes, and seal them with the appropriate caulk or sealant.
3. Invest in Quality Paint: High-quality paint can help to protect your home’s exterior from moisture damage. Look for paint that is specifically designed for exterior use and is formulated to resist mildew and mold growth.
4. Maintain Proper Drainage: Allowing water to pool around your home’s foundation can cause serious damage. Be sure to maintain proper drainage around your property by grading your yard away from your house and installing drainage systems where necessary.
5. Install Vapor Barriers: Vapor barriers are designed to prevent moisture from seeping into your home’s walls and causing damage. These barriers are typically installed during construction, but if your home doesn’t have one, consider hiring a professional to install one.
By following these tips, you can protect your home’s exterior from moisture damage and keep your painted surfaces looking new and fresh for years to come.
Protect Against UV Rays
Protecting your exterior from harmful UV rays is crucial to keeping your painted surfaces looking fresh and new. UV rays can cause significant damage to your paint job, fading the color and causing the paint to peel and crack. To protect your home’s exterior from UV damage, consider the following:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Choose the right paint | Look for paint with UV-resistant properties to prevent sun damage |
| Apply a protective coating | Consider applying a clear protective coat over your paint job to shield against UV rays |
| Provide adequate shade | Shade your exterior with trees, umbrellas or retractable awnings where possible to prevent direct sunlight on the painted surface |
Choosing a paint that’s specifically formulated with UV-resistant properties is an excellent first step towards protecting your painted surfaces. By using such paint, you can ensure that your exterior maintains its vibrant color for much longer. Additionally, applying a clear, protective coat over your painted surfaces can shield them against harmful UV damage. However, if your home is already facing the sun, it’s a good idea to provide adequate shade for your exterior. You can do this by planting trees, using umbrellas, or retractable awnings to block the sun’s direct rays from reaching your painted surface.
By taking these preventive measures, you can ensure that your home’s exterior remains in great condition for much longer, saving you time and money in the long run.
Maintain Your Landscape
Maintaining your landscape is an often-overlooked aspect of keeping your painted exterior looking fresh and new. Your landscaping can have a significant impact on the overall appearance of your home. Here are some tips for maintaining your landscape:
| TIP | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|
| Trim Trees and Shrubs | Overgrown trees and shrubs can scratch and damage your home’s exterior paint. Regularly trimming them back can prevent this. |
| Keep Planter Boxes Away from Walls | Planter boxes can trap moisture against your home’s exterior, which can cause damage and lead to peeling paint. Keep them away from the walls to prevent this. |
| Avoid Sprinklers Hitting Your Walls | If your sprinkler system sprays water onto your exterior walls, it can cause water damage and peeling paint. Adjust your sprinklers to avoid hitting your walls directly. |
| Remove Vines | While vines can look charming climbing up the side of your home, they can cause damage and should be removed. They can trap moisture against your walls, causing chipping and peeling paint. |
Following these landscape maintenance tips will help keep your painted exterior looking fresh and new for years to come.
Regular Maintenance and Inspection
It’s inevitable that your home’s exterior will experience wear and tear over time, even with the best quality paint, proper preparation and protection measures in place. To prolong the life of your painted exterior, regular maintenance and inspection are crucial. By performing routine inspections and touch-ups, re-painting as needed, storing extra paint, and replacing caulk when necessary, you can keep your home looking fresh and new for years to come. Let’s delve into the best practices for regular maintenance and inspection.
Inspect and Touch-up Regularly
Regular inspection and touch-up is crucial to maintain the fresh and new look of your painted exterior. Here are some steps you can follow to make sure your painted exterior looks its best:
- Regularly inspect your exterior for signs of wear and tear, such as peeling, cracking, or fading paint.
- Address any issues promptly. If you notice any damaged or worn areas, touch them up with paint as soon as possible.
- Use high-quality paint and painting tools for touch-ups to ensure a seamless finish.
- Pay special attention to areas that are exposed to the elements or prone to damage, such as window sills, door frames, and trim.
- Be consistent with touch-up painting. Set a schedule for touch-ups and stick to it.
- Don’t forget to clean the surface thoroughly before touch-up painting to ensure a proper bond with the new coat of paint.
Taking the time to regularly inspect and touch-up your painted exterior can help prevent more extensive damage and prolong the life of your paint job.
Re-paint as Needed
Regular maintenance is the key to the longevity of exterior paint. One of the most important things you can do to keep your painted exterior looking fresh and new is to re-paint it as needed. Over time, your exterior paint will wear down due to exposure to the elements such as rain, sun, and wind. It is important to keep an eye out for signs of paint degradation like chips, cracks, or fading, and to address them as soon as possible. Here are some steps you can take to ensure that your exterior paint job stays in tip-top shape:
– Inspect your exterior regularly: Regular inspections can help you identify when it is time to re-paint. Keep an eye out for peeling or chipping paint, cracks, and other signs of wear and tear.
– Prep the surface: Before re-painting, you need to prepare the surface properly. This involves cleaning and possibly sanding the surface to create a smooth, clean canvas to work with. If needed, apply a primer before re-painting.
– Choose the right paint type: Make sure to choose high quality exterior paint that is designed for your specific climate and conditions. If you are unsure which type to select, consult with a professional at your local hardware store.
– Apply paint in the right conditions: Paint in the cooler, less humid times of day and avoid painting when the surface is too hot or in direct sunlight.
– Cover all surfaces: Don’t forget to cover all surfaces that aren’t being painted to prevent any mishaps.
Re-painting may seem daunting and time-consuming, but it is essential to maintaining the exterior of your home. By taking the time to re-paint your exterior as needed, you can extend the life of your original paint job and keep your home looking fresh and new. Remember to always wear protective gear like gloves and masks, and always follow the instructions on the paint can for the best results.
Store Extra Paint
One of the most important steps in maintaining the fresh and new look of your painted exterior is to store extra paint for future touch-ups. It’s crucial to store it properly to ensure it remains usable.
Here are some tips for storing extra paint:
| #1 | Transfer the remaining paint into a smaller container with a tight-fitting lid to reduce the amount of air that will come in contact with the paint. |
|---|---|
| #2 | Label the container with the name of the color, the room or location where it was used, the date it was painted, and where it was purchased. |
| #3 | Store the container in a cool, dry place that is protected from extreme temperatures (such as garages or basements). |
| #4 | If storing multiple cans of the same color, stack them on top of each other, upside down. This creates an airtight seal and prevents the paint from drying out. |
| #5 | Before using the stored paint, check it for any signs of skinning, molding, or curdling. If it appears to be in good condition, stir it thoroughly before applying it. |
Storing extra paint is not only beneficial for future touch-ups, but it can also save you money in the long run. If you have extra paint from a previous painting project, you can use it for smaller touch-ups instead of having to buy a whole new can of paint. Just make sure to store it properly to ensure its longevity.
Replace Caulking as Needed
Caulking is one of the essential elements in ensuring the durability and longevity of painted exteriors. Over time, caulk tends to shrink, crack, or even pull away from surfaces, which creates gaps where moisture and air can penetrate. As a result, replacing caulk is essential for maintaining the integrity of your painted exterior. Here are a few tips on how to replace caulk when needed:
- Remove Old Caulking: Before applying new caulk, it’s crucial to remove any old or damaged caulk using a scraper or caulk remover tool. This process ensures that the new caulk adheres correctly to the surface and doesn’t trap any moisture in the gaps.
- Clean the Surface: After removing old caulk, clean the surface thoroughly using soap and water. Allow the surface to dry completely before moving to the next step.
- Select the Right Caulk: Choosing the right type of caulk is crucial in ensuring that it adheres well to the surface and withstands external elements. Make sure to choose a caulk that is compatible with your painted exterior and the type of surface you’re sealing.
- Apply New Caulking: Using a caulk gun, apply the new caulk to the gap, ensuring that it fills the gap entirely without leaving any voids. Smooth the caulk with a caulk smoothing tool or your finger to ensure that the caulk adheres to the surface correctly and has a neat appearance.
- Allow Time to Dry: After applying caulk, allow it to dry completely before painting over it or exposing it to external elements. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations for drying times before painting.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your painted exterior is well-protected against moisture and air leaks. With regular inspection and maintenance, your caulk will help maintain the appearance and value of your property for years to come.
Conclusion
In conclusion, maintaining the fresh and new look of your painted exterior is not a one-time task but a continuous process that requires attention and effort. By following these 10 proven ways, you can ensure that your home’s exterior remains beautiful and well-protected for years to come.
Choosing the best quality paint goes a long way in ensuring the longevity and integrity of your home’s exterior paint job. This involves selecting the right type, finish, and color that suit your home’s style and environment.
Prepping your home’s exterior by cleaning the surface thoroughly, fixing surface imperfections, and removing loose and flaking paint greatly affects the smoothness of your paint job. It also helps your paint job last longer.
Protecting your exterior from elements by providing adequate ventilation, regular cleaning, and protecting against moisture and UV rays helps prevent damage and wear from environmental factors. Maintaining your landscape is also an important part of this step.
Regular maintenance and inspection is vital in keeping your painted exterior looking fresh and new. This involves inspecting and touching up regularly, repainting as needed, storing extra paint, and replacing caulking as needed.
All of these steps are important and interconnected, and neglecting any of them could result in a less-than-fresh appearance for your home’s exterior. So, take some time to consider each of them carefully and implement them in your home’s maintenance routine. By doing so, you can ensure that your painted exterior continues to look great for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best type of paint for my home’s exterior?
The best type of paint for your home’s exterior is a 100% acrylic latex paint which is durable and long-lasting.
What factors should I consider when choosing the right finish for my home’s exterior paint?
When choosing the right finish for your home’s exterior paint, consider factors such as the level of gloss, durability, and ease of cleaning.
How can I pick the right color for my home’s exterior paint?
You can pick the right color for your home’s exterior paint by considering factors such as the style of your home, the surrounding landscape, and the architecture of your neighborhood.
Is it necessary to clean the surface before painting?
Yes, it is necessary to clean the surface before painting to ensure that the paint adheres properly and lasts longer.
How do I fix surface imperfections before painting?
You can fix surface imperfections before painting by filling in cracks, holes, and other imperfections with a high-quality filler and sanding it smooth before painting.
Why is it important to protect your exterior from elements?
It is important to protect your exterior from elements because exposure to moisture, UV rays, and other elements can cause damage and lead to costly repairs.
How can I protect my exterior from moisture?
You can protect your exterior from moisture by making sure that your gutters are clear and functioning properly, and by using weather-resistant products such as caulking and sealants.
How do I maintain my landscape to protect my exterior?
You can maintain your landscape to protect your exterior by keeping trees and bushes trimmed away from your home, and by regularly cleaning up leaves, debris, and other organic matter that can cause damage.
How often should I inspect and touch-up my painted exterior?
You should inspect and touch-up your painted exterior as needed, typically every 3-5 years depending on the climate and weather conditions in your area.
Is it important to store extra paint for touch-ups?
Yes, it is important to store extra paint for touch-ups to ensure that you have an exact match and can maintain the appearance of your home’s exterior.