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A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for your home’s curb appeal, but if you don’t prepare properly, that paint job might not last as long as you’d like. Here are two ways to ensure a smooth and durable finish:
1. Sand and seal for a solid foundation.
One of the most crucial steps in exterior painting is thoroughly sanding the siding and any other wood surfaces. Old paint and coatings tend to peel or pop up over time, which can cause your new paint job to prematurely fail. Sanding helps create a smooth surface by removing any loose or flaking paint and providing a solid base for the new layers.
After sanding, consider applying a product like Zinsser® Peel Stop to reinforce adhesion. This transparent, glue-like sealer locks down any remaining paint layers and prevents them from peeling under the new paint. After it’s applied, use elastomeric caulking to fill any gaps. This type of caulk expands and contracts with temperature changes, which will prevent water from seeping behind the wood and leading to further peeling or damage.
2. Prime before you paint.
Primer helps seal the surface and creates a strong bond for the topcoat, ensuring better durability and color retention. Without proper priming, even the best exterior paint can fail quickly, leading to costly repaints within just a couple of years. After priming, apply two coats of high-quality exterior paint to ensure better weather resistance and a longer-lasting finish.