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Project Planner Exterior House
steps step1 step2 step3 step4 step5
Surface Preparation


Surface preparation is especially critical for
exterior applications. This step, combined with choosing top quality paints, will ensure your paint job lasts the longest possible time.

Importance of Surface Preparation

 

Preparing the Area and Surface

Area
a. Cover plants and other surfaces not to be painted with tarps
b. If painting body of house, dig small trench around house
   to paint to ground level
c. Caulk around windows, doors, vents.
click here for more information on Caulking Inside and Out


Preparing the Surface
If pre-existing problems exist, correct those first to prevent future recurrence. Visit our Exterior Problem Solver for help.

Make a list of all the surfaces that will be painted, such as wood, aluminum siding, vinyl siding. Using the Exterior Prep, Prime and Paint. For more information on surface preparation, click on the links below.

Remove old, damaged paint or stain
Get rid of mildew
Clean the area
Prepare glossy surfaces
Select the primer
Check all caulking
Additional tips for specific building materials

Complete your Materials Checklist
Types of paint and primers needed
Surface prep materials – e.g. exterior patching materials,
   primers, 100% acrylic topcoats.
Tools you’ll need – both for surface prep and applying
   the paint.

How Much Paint will you need? – Simply use the exterior calculator and trim calculator to determine paint quantity.

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