Exterior painting protects your home from moisture, UV damage, and decay while enhancing curb appeal and property value. A professional exterior paint job costs $3,000-$10,000 for an average home ($1.50-$5.00 per square foot) and lasts 5-10 years depending on climate, surface preparation, and paint quality.
10 steps across 1 sections
1. Steps Guide
- Assess the current condition — Walk around the home and note peeling paint, cracking, bare wood, mildew, chalking (powdery residue), and rot. Identify all surfaces to be painted: siding, trim, soff...
- Choose the right time — Paint when temperatures are 50-85F, humidity is below 85%, and no rain is forecast for 24-48 hours. Early summer and early fall offer the best conditions in most climates. A...
- Select paint and colors — Use 100% acrylic latex paint for most exterior surfaces (best durability and flexibility). Choose a flat or satin finish for siding and semi-gloss for trim. Get samples an...
- Pressure wash the exterior — Remove dirt, mildew, chalking, and loose paint. Use appropriate pressure settings (1,200-1,500 PSI for wood siding, higher for masonry). Allow 24-48 hours for thorough ...
- Scrape and sand — Remove all loose, peeling, and flaking paint down to a solid surface. Sand edges smooth between painted and bare areas. Sand glossy surfaces for paint adhesion.
- Repair surfaces — Fill cracks, holes, and gaps with exterior-grade wood filler or caulk. Replace rotted wood. Repair damaged siding. Re-caulk around windows, doors, and trim.
- Prime bare and repaired surfaces — Apply primer to all bare wood, repaired areas, and stain-prone surfaces (knots, tannin bleed). Primer ensures adhesion and blocks stains from bleeding through the...
- Protect surrounding areas — Cover landscaping, walkways, decks, and fixtures with drop cloths and plastic sheeting. Tape around windows, doors, light fixtures, and other items not being painted.
- Apply paint — Use a brush for detail work and cutting in, and a roller or sprayer for large flat surfaces. Apply two coats for best coverage and durability, allowing manufacturer-recommended drying...
- Inspect and touch up — After the final coat dries, inspect all surfaces in different lighting conditions. Touch up missed spots, drips, and inconsistencies. Remove tape and drop cloths carefully.
Common Mistakes
- Skipping preparation
- Painting in bad weather
- Using cheap paint
- Not priming bare wood
- Applying paint too thick or in one coat
Pro Tips
- Invest in quality paint
- Use a paint sprayer for large areas
- Start at the top
- Pay attention to caulking
- Consider hiring for high or complex areas