Exterior House Painting Tips

Anybody who has participated in exterior house painting knows the process takes great patience and attention to detail. Over the years, professional painters have offered many suggestions on doing the best overall job of painting the outside of a home. I have comprehensively compiled and placed the top suggestions for your review and implementation.

1. Preparation!

This is an ideal that people have been trying to pound into our heads since we were youngsters. We have always been told to "Be Prepared!" It's a great idea; however, life does not always allow for preparation. Despite life's quarrels, exterior house painting is one task that requires preparation to create a smooth operating procedure.

So, the point is to ensure you know what materials will be needed and have them all on hand and ready to go before you start your project.

2. Take it From the top

This probably sounds like an elementary tip, but believe it or not, there are still people out there who seem to forget about that little thing called gravity.

If you plan on your finished product looking professional and neat, you will always want to start painting from the top of the wall and work your way down.

3. Don't Let the Brush Dry out

The breaks are your favorite part of the painting (or any work) if you are anything like me. I LOVE to take breaks, which makes the "work" part of the day go by much faster because I have something to look forward to.

You must prepare for your breaks when performing exterior house painting. You will want to wrap your paint brushes to ensure they do not dry out. Using a plastic grocery bag is your best (and cheapest) bet. Any plastic bag will do; however, I recommend a plastic grocery bag simply because most people have these lying around the house somewhere.

This keeps your paintbrushes from drying out and will save you a lot of unnecessary hassle.

4. Water-Based Paint

Water-based paint will be the safest route unless you plan on making yourself into a living piece of abstract art. Oil-based paint works excellently if you are a professional with years of experience managing it. However, for novice painters, water-based paint will keep you out of harm's way. Water-based paint washes out of clothing quickly and comes off your skin with minimal effort. It also works just fine for exterior house painting purposes.

5. Patience is a Virtue

And last but not least, the timeless virtue of patience. As mentioned, exterior house painting takes patience and attention to detail. If you are the ill-tempered type or become enraged very easily. It may be beneficial for you to hire a professional painting crew.

However, if you can monitor your temper and maintain a level head in frustrating conditions, go into this process fully prepared to exercise your power of will. You will need all the patience you can muster with this project.

Here are the top tips for successful exterior house painting. I extend my best wishes to you in your upcoming endeavor. I strongly advise you to notify the family counselor; you may need a few counseling sessions to release your frustration.