With spring making its appearance in New England, and several of us stuck at home, the honey-do lists are in full swing! One of the biggest under-goings that a homeowner can take on is the exterior of their home. From painting to siding, lawn maintenance to pruning, curb appeal is everywhere you look. Although some of these projects may seem a bit damaging to the budget during these times, investing in quality exterior painters is worth your while. Not only is a poorly painted home unsightly, but if left unattended, but it can lead to more costly structural damages – like rot. However, knowing how to prep your home for painting and care for it after will extend the life of your exterior for years to come.
The length of time that exterior paint will last depends on where you live. Wood trim or siding on a house typically fades within three years due to sun exposure. The darker the color of the paint, the more sun and heat absorbs, which causes fading to occur. Likewise, lighter colors will last longer.
One of the biggest reasons for paint to peel or chip is if fresh paint is applied over already painted surfaces. The old paint can divide or become divided into layers under the new paint. Thus, peeling may occur. By painting over dirty, flaky, or moldy surfaces, the paint’s ability to adhere to the surface is weakened. These imperfections leave an uncertain future, prone to flaking and chipping.
The labor involved in preparation depends on the home’s condition. However, there are general steps that most homes require. First, loose paint should be scraped off or stripped, and a primer should be utilized. Using a primer beneath the topcoats of color acts as a base coat which helps to smooth any surface imperfections. Furthermore, the primer also improves paint adhesion, making paint less prone to bubbling, flaking, or chipping. After your prep is adequately completed, several coats of paint should be applied to help for a longer-lasting finish.
The Paint Doctors are a full-service exterior and interior painting company located in Andover, Massachusetts. We serve; the Merrimack Valley, The North Shore, Boston, Cambridge and points in between.
All Rights Reserved | The Paint Doctors
All Rights Reserved | The Paint Doctors