How to Properly Paint Your Home's Exterior Step 1: Pressure-Wash Walls
To ensure best coverage, remove dirt and dust buildup from house using a pressure washer. TIP: Work your way from top to bottom of house in a smooth, controlled manner, overlapping each stroke by 8 inches 2: Repair Damaged Surfaces
Walk around entire perimeter of house taking note of damaged surfaces such as: wood, masonry, metal, siding or stucco. Apply epoxy filler to cracks or holes using spackle knife. Once dry, lightly sand using medium-grit sanding block. Step 3: Remove Loose Paint
Once exterior is dry, walk around perimeter of house taking note of any loose or chipped paint. Place drop cloths along ground, then remove chipped and loose paint using paint scraper or medium-grit sanding block. Step 4: Caulk Trim
Fill any gaps between house and trim around doors and windows using exterior caulk and caulk gun. If house has mixed materials such as siding and brick, add caulk along surface where different materials meet. Prime Stains
Examine exterior for any stains or visible wood knots. Apply one coat of stain-blocking primer to area using paintbrush. Step 6: Protect Doors, Windows and Lights
Cover doors, windows and lighting fixtures using plastic sheeting and painter’s tape.
