Handyman in Vaughan: 5 Common Exterior Painting Mistakes To Avoid

A house’s exterior is the main focus of its curb appeal. Sure, the landscaping has a little something to do with external perceived value, but it is mainly the structure. Exterior painting is an essential element of a house’s appeal. If a house looks vibrant and clean, the perceived value increases. The value decreases if the structure is dirty with cracked or chipping paint. Even a fresh paint job can lower the value of a home if it isn’t executed correctly.

5 Common Exterior Painting Mistakes

Paint is an excellent medium for transforming an exterior, but it is not as easy to master as some believe. Painting is a skill; if you are unfamiliar with it, you should practice on smaller projects before painting your home’s exterior.

DIY projects sound like cost-effective solutions, but it is easy to underestimate a project’s difficulty level. Painting for the outside is not the same as painting for the inside. Too often, property owners make mistakes that jeopardize the finished look. Discover five common painting mistakes and how to avoid them.

1. Not Preparing the Surfaces Properly

The most common exterior painting mistake is failing to prepare the surface. The home exterior should be clean before applying any paint, including a primer. Dirt and grime left on the exterior can cause poor adhesion, peeling paint, and blistering.

The proper way to prepare for paint includes washing the surface, scraping away old, loose paint, and applying a proper primer. Preparation is the key to a beautiful finish, but it takes time, and many homeowners prefer spending that time with family and friends, so they often hire a handyman in Vaughan for the task.

2. Not Using the Right Primer

Primer helps paint stick or adhere to a surface; it is especially important on bare wood, including wood with peeling paint. The primer acts as a sealing layer to prevent too much paint from getting sucked into the wood. Without an appropriate primer, you will likely need more paint to achieve the finish you’re after.

Also, when choosing a primer, select a high-quality manufacturer. You want to use one specified for outdoor use.

3. Using Too Much Pressure When Applying Paint

People often apply too much pressure when they paint. Too much pressure usually results in quick consumption or use of the product and a streaky finish. Too much pressure causes streaks because the paint tends to push out toward the edges of the roller or brush, resulting in an uneven application.

The only way to perfect how you apply paint is with practice. Most homeowners don’t want to practice on the exterior of their homes, so it is better to hire house painting services in Vaughan.

4. Not Understanding How the Weather Affects the Paint Process

Exterior painting also requires knowledge about how the weather affects application and drying times. For example, if using latex paint, you want to avoid hot and cold weather extremes. When temperatures are too cold, the paint may not adhere correctly, and if they are too hot, the durability of the paint may be compromised.

Moderate weather is the best time to paint the exterior. You want temperatures between 60° and 85° Fahrenheit, with little wind. If you must paint on hotter days, avoid direct sunlight.

5. Skimping on the Quality of Paint

Many people do not want to spend extra money on high-quality paint but should reconsider. Quality paints produce excellent finishes, which you want on the outside of your house. Also, more expensive paints may require fewer coats than cheaper paints, so the costs may balance out.

Exterior Painting Professionals

Exterior painting is an advanced skill. If you want the best finish for increased curb appeal, consider hiring a professional painter. Professionals avoid common mistakes like the ones outlined in this blog and can possibly save you money. Contact Handyman Connection for more information.