House Paint is a vital component of modern civilization and an essential protector of homes and buildings from the relentless onslaught of nature’s elements. Without it, we would watch the structure of our buildings deteriorate and fall apart. Fortunately, we do not have to live with this fate because house painting can prevent it and keep our structures safe for many generations.
The cost of house painting can vary dramatically, depending on the condition of the surface to be painted and what type of finish is desired. A brand new home with smooth surfaces will require less preparation work than an older one that has been subjected to years of weathering. However, removing and replacing damaged siding or woodwork can add to the total cost of the project. The amount of wall surface to be covered can also increase the cost. A full room with multiple accent walls and different color schemes will take more time than a single coat of a solid color.
It is important to properly prepare the surface before starting a house painting job. The best time to do this is in the late spring or early autumn. If the weather is too hot or cold, the exterior surface may not dry completely. It is also necessary to wash the surface with a pressure washer and to scrape or sand any loose or chipped paint. This will allow the fresh paint click here to adhere to the surface and will eliminate any moisture that can damage or cause mold growth.
After washing the surface, it is essential to prime and caulk any cracks or crevices. Then the surface can be lightly sanded with a power sander or a hand-held wire brush. If there are heavy deposits of old paint that will not come off with light sanding, an electric scraper or chemical paint remover may be necessary. Finally, the surface should be cleaned with a sponge and soapy water to rinse off any remaining dirt and grime.
Before you begin the actual house painting, it is wise to place drop cloths along the ground and cover any furnishings or appliances that will not be moved. The next step is to decide what application method will be used. Using a brush gives you greater control and can produce a more beautiful finish, while using a roller makes the work more efficient and provides heavier coverage. A paint sprayer is a popular choice but can be tricky to use and requires training and practice.
When estimating how much paint is needed for the job, start by measuring the house’s perimeter and multiplying it by the height, excluding any gable ends. Then subtract the square footage of doors and windows from this number. The final figure can then be divided by the square foot coverage specified on the can of paint to determine how many gallons are required.
Whether the job is small or large, it is wise to hire professional painters for house painting. A crew of painters can complete in one or two weeks what might take a do-it-yourselfer several weeks or even months.