Whether one chooses to do it themselves or use an exterior painting company, knowing some common tips will help the process go more smoothly. They can use these tricks themselves or they can question a possible exterior painting company to see if they know of them. This allows them to secure the best company possible for the job.

After all, the appearance of a home or business directly reflects the owner. So, it’s more than important to have the best looking structure on the block! Browse these tips and be sure to consider them with the next exterior paint job that comes up, as it can be difficult to remember what to ask professional hires.

The Weather –Always plan when considering a painting job. Any good exterior painting company will take the time of year into account and know the patterns for the local weather. They usually go for a dry time of year with low humidity and less chance of rain. This allows the paint to dry completely and adhere as expected.

Quality Trumps Price – It’s much more important to consider quality over price. For one the job will last longer. Any prime exterior painting company will be up-to-date on the latest technology in regards to exterior paint, as it’s improved over the last few years. Forgo the cheaper brands and choose those recommended by the experts.

Proper Preparation – Everyone knows, or should, that paint will not stick well to a dirty surface. That’s why washing and prepping the exterior area to be painted is important. They should be washed, allowed to dry and then sanded thoroughly. A solid surface will allow the paint to adhere properly.

Replace rotten wood – Paint will absolutely not stick to rotten siding or trim. They keep deteriorating under the paint so this is a huge waste of time. Professional exterior painting companies will replace or repair any rotten spots and use wood hardened and filler when necessary. All this should be done before paint ever touches a surface, and an expert exterior painting company will do just that.

Always Use Primer – It’s long been the rule of thumb to put on a good coat of primer, then sand, and of course finally apply the color. This is still a good way to paint, and if a professional exterior painting company does so it’s a good sign they are one of the best.

Mix small cans into one large container – This is extremely smart as it allows multiple cans of the same color so that the results are uniform. Though they may all be blended the same there are usually slight variances. Professional exterior painting crews always do this.

Always paint top to bottom – There’s a method to this madness, when starting at the top and working one’s way down there is less a chance for streaks. The reason is gravity. This is also good for controlling drips because they will happen, and this way one can make sure they cover them up completely and keep the results completely uniform.

Get gritty – when a professional painting company is painting steps, they always add grit so that they do not become so slick that there could be accidents. A little fine sand added to the paint creates traction or texture and makes them much safer.

Consider the surrounding Landscape – Painting is a messy job, even professional exterior painters put down traps and the like, and clean up or move any outdoor apparatus that could get paint on them to include grills, hoses, and outdoor furnishings. Tarps should be laid and weighted down or secured around furniture for the last in protection.

Article originally published at Source by Josh Berner