Refreshing your Homezillow exterior paint is a great way to boost curb appeal and protect your property from the elements. While it might seem like a daunting task, with the right tools and preparation, it’s a project that many homeowners can tackle themselves. This DIY guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring your home looks fresh and beautiful.

Table of Contents

1. Assessing Your Home’s Exterior
2. Choosing the Right Paint and Tools
3. Preparation
4. Painting
5. Finishing Touches and Cleanup
6. Maintenance Tips

Assessing Your Home’s Exterior

Before you start, it's important to thoroughly inspect your home's exterior. This will help you identify any areas that need special attention and determine the amount of paint and supplies you’ll need.

Inspect for Damage

1. Check for Cracks and Holes: Look for cracks, holes, or any other damage to the siding or trim. These will need to be repaired before you can start painting.
2. Look for Peeling or Blistering Paint: Note areas where the paint is peeling or blistering. These sections will require extra preparation.
3. Inspect for Mold and Mildew: Mold and mildew need to be removed before painting. Look for black or green spots on the surface.

Measure Your Home’s Exterior

1. Calculate Surface Area: Measure the height and width of each wall to calculate the total surface area. Don’t forget to subtract the area of windows and doors.
2. Determine Paint Quantity: Most paint cans indicate coverage per gallon. Use your surface area measurements to determine how many gallons of paint you’ll need, including extra for touch-ups.

Choosing the Right Paint and Tools

Selecting high-quality paint and the right tools is crucial for a long-lasting and professional-looking finish.

Types of Exterior Paint

1. Acrylic Latex Paint: This is the most popular choice for exterior painting due to its durability, flexibility, and ease of cleanup.
2. Oil-Based Paint: Provides a hard, durable finish but is more difficult to clean up and has a longer drying time.
3. Elastomeric Paint: Highly flexible and water-resistant, making it ideal for surfaces that expand and contract.

Paint Finish

1. Flat/Matte: Provides a smooth, non-reflective finish that hides surface imperfections. Ideal for older homes with less-than-perfect siding.
2. Eggshell/Satin: Slightly reflective with a soft sheen, good for hiding imperfections and easy to clean.
3. Semi-Gloss/Gloss: Highly durable and easy to clean, best for trim, doors, and areas that need to withstand more wear and tear.

Tools and Supplies

1. Brushes and Rollers: Use high-quality brushes for cutting in edges and rollers for large surfaces.
2. Paint Sprayer: Can speed up the process for large areas but requires practice to use effectively.
3. Drop Cloths and Tape: Protect your landscaping and trim from paint splatters.
4. Ladders and Scaffolding: Ensure you have sturdy ladders or scaffolding to safely reach high areas.
5. Sandpaper and Scrapers: For preparing the surface by removing old paint and smoothing rough areas.

Preparation

Proper preparation is key to a successful paint job. Taking the time to prep correctly will ensure the paint adheres well and lasts longer.

Cleaning the Surface

1. Power Wash: Use a power washer to clean the entire exterior surface, removing dirt, grime, and loose paint.
2. Hand Wash: For areas that need extra attention, use a scrub brush and mild detergent.

Repairing Damage

1. Fill Cracks and Holes: Use exterior-grade filler or caulk to repair any cracks or holes. Allow to dry completely before sanding.
2. Replace Damaged Wood: If you find any rotted or severely damaged wood, replace it before painting.

Sanding and Scraping

1. Scrape Loose Paint: Use a paint scraper to remove loose or peeling paint.
2. Sand Rough Areas: Sand all surfaces to create a smooth base for the new paint. Pay special attention to areas where old paint has been removed.

Priming

1. Apply Primer: Use a high-quality exterior primer on all bare wood or repaired areas. This helps the paint adhere better and provides an even base.
2. Let Primer Dry: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying time before applying the topcoat.

Painting

Now that your surface is prepped, it’s time to start painting. Follow these steps for the best results.

Cutting In

1. Edges and Trim: Start by using a brush to “cut in” around windows, doors, and trim. This involves painting the edges and areas that a roller cannot reach.
2. Corners and Tight Spots: Use a smaller brush for corners and tight spots to ensure even coverage.

Rolling or Spraying

1. Large Surfaces: Use a roller or paint sprayer to cover large surfaces. Apply paint in a consistent, overlapping pattern to avoid streaks and uneven coverage.
2. Multiple Coats: Most exterior paints will require at least two coats for a durable finish. Allow the first coat to dry completely before applying the second.

Painting in Sections

1. Work in Sections: To avoid lap marks, work in small sections, finishing each one before moving on to the next.
2. Blend Edges: Blend each section with the previous one while the paint is still wet to maintain a uniform appearance.

Finishing Touches and Cleanup

Once the main painting is done, focus on the finishing touches and cleanup to complete your project.

Touch-Ups

1. Inspect for Missed Spots: After the paint has dried, inspect the surface for any missed spots or thin areas. Touch up as needed.
2. Smooth Finish: Use a fine brush to smooth out any drips or uneven areas.

Remove Tape and Drop Cloths

1. Carefully Remove Tape: Remove painter's tape while the paint is still slightly tacky to avoid peeling off any fresh paint.
2. Clean Up Drop Cloths: Collect and clean drop cloths, ensuring no paint spills have occurred.

Cleaning Brushes and Tools

1. Clean Brushes and Rollers: Thoroughly clean brushes and rollers with water (for latex paint) or mineral spirits (for oil-based paint).
2. Store Leftover Paint: Store any leftover paint properly for future touch-ups or projects.

Dispose of Waste Properly

1. Paint Disposal: Dispose of paint cans and other waste materials according to local regulations.

Maintenance Tips

Regular maintenance can extend the life of your new exterior paint job.

Regular Inspections

1. Annual Checkups: Inspect your exterior paint annually for any signs of wear, peeling, or damage.
2. Quick Repairs: Address any minor issues immediately to prevent them from becoming major problems.

Cleaning

1. Wash Annually: Use a garden hose or pressure washer to clean the exterior of your home annually, removing dirt and mildew.
2. Avoid Harsh Cleaners: Use mild detergents to avoid damaging the paint.

Touch-Ups

1. Keep Extra Paint: Store extra paint in a cool, dry place for future touch-ups.
2. Touch Up as Needed: Address any scratches, chips, or worn areas promptly to maintain the appearance and protection of your home.

By following these steps, you can successfully refresh your home’s exterior paint, enhancing its appearance and protecting it from the elements. Whether you’re an experienced DIYer or tackling this type of project for the first time, careful preparation and attention to detail will ensure a beautiful, long-lasting result.