10 Steps to a Perfect Exterior Paint Job

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Published: March 11, 2011
By: Joseph D'Agnese
2Comments

Painting the exterior of your home is a big job that costs thousands in the hands of a professional. But you can save money if you invest the time to do it yourself correctly.

Effort: High 2 wks
Investment: Med $4,000-$6,000 (hire a pro)

Step 7: Caulk all joints

Siliconized or top-of-the line polyurethane acrylic caulks give paint jobs a smooth, pleasing look. But the benefits aren’t purely aesthetic. Tight joints also prevent air leaks and block water penetration.

Spring for the $7-a-tube polyurethane caulks with 55-year warranties, which will stand up to weather better than 35-year caulks that cost less than $3. The average house requires about seven tubes of caulk.

Next: Step 8: Choose the right paint

Joseph D'Agnese

is a journalist and book author who has written numerous articles on home improvement. He lives in North Carolina.

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Brad, you’re right about weather. Check your paint brand’s recommendation for optimal outdoor painting temps. Generally, it’s best to paint when it’s between 50 and 80 degrees. Humidity and rain can cause drying paint to blister. Consider temperature fluctuations, too. Your paint might not like it if temps fall or rise precipitously while it’s drying.
Posted by HouseLogic on January 24, 2013

What about when to paint, such as temperature range, avoiding freezing, avoiding high humidity, etc.?
Posted by Brad on January 21, 2013

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Make your floors look like new again:

They’re lush, green, and all-American. They’re also water-hogging, time-sucking nuisances. In fact, some are saying ‘no’ to turf. Should we get rid of our lawns?

What are lawn alternatives?

Turf grasses

Ground cover

Fake grass

And, yes, lawn paint!