Hailstorms, and even heavy rain can wreak havoc on your home’s exterior paint job. Luckily, refreshing your curb appeal doesn’t require a complete repaint. Here at JT Paint & Design, we know a thing or two about weatherproofing your home. This guide will equip you with the knowledge and steps to tackle those post-storm touch-ups with confidence.
Assessing the Damage
The first step is to identify the extent of the damage. Grab a ladder and a well-lit day to get a good look at your house. Here’s what to look for:
Peeling Paint: Large or small flakes indicate a moisture issue beneath the paint’s surface. You’ll need to scrape away the loose paint before repainting.
Blistering: Blisters are raised areas that trap moisture. Pop them with a scraper and let the area dry completely before repainting.
Cracking: Fine cracks may require just repainting, but wider cracks might signal structural issues that need a professional’s attention.
Faded or Chalking Paint: Over time, sun exposure can cause paint to fade or develop a chalky residue. Repainting is the solution here.
When to Call in the Professionals
While some touch-ups are DIY-friendly, extensive damage or repairs on high surfaces might be best left to the pros. Here are some signs it’s time to call JT Paint & Design:
Roof Damage: If the storm damaged your roof, it’s important to address that first to prevent further water infiltration that can lead to paint failure.
Rotting Wood: Scraping away damaged paint might reveal underlying rot that requires professional repair before repainting.
Second or Third Story: Exterior painting on high surfaces requires safety measures and specialized equipment.
Gathering Your Supplies
Once you’ve assessed the damage and decided on a DIY approach, it’s time to gather your supplies. Here’s a list to get you started:
Drop cloths and masking tape: Protect your landscaping and neighboring surfaces from paint splatters.
Safety glasses and gloves: Safety first!
Ladder: Choose a sturdy ladder appropriate for the height you’ll be working on.
Paint scraper: Remove loose and flaking paint.
Sandpaper (various grits): Rough-up glossy surfaces and smooth uneven areas for better paint adhesion.
Exterior caulking: Seal gaps around windows and doors to prevent water infiltration.
Exterior primer (optional): A primer can improve paint adhesion on bare spots or heavily repaired areas.
Exterior paint: Ensure it matches your existing paint or that you have a color swatch to ensure a perfect match when purchasing new paint.
Prepping the Surface is Key
A successful touch-up hinges on proper surface preparation. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Clean the Surface: Wash the entire area you’ll be repainting with a mixture of mild dish soap and water. Rinse thoroughly and allow it to dry completely.
Scrape Away Loose Paint: Use the scraper to remove all loose and flaking paint. Be meticulous; any remaining loose bits will compromise the new paint’s adhesion.
Sand the Area: Using medium-grit sandpaper, sand down any rough areas or glossy surfaces. Wipe away dust with a damp rag and allow the surface to dry completely.
Apply Caulk (Optional): Seal any cracks or gaps around windows and doors with exterior caulk. Let the caulk dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Applying the Paint
Now that your surface is prepped and primed (if necessary), it’s time for the fun part – painting! Here are some pointers for a flawless finish:
Mask Around the Edges: Use masking tape to create clean lines around the areas you’ll be repainting.
Start with Small Touches: Especially if you’re a DIY novice, it’s best to start by filling in small areas or patching minor imperfections.
Apply Thin Coats: Two or three thin coats are preferable to one thick coat. This ensures even coverage and prevents drips and runs.
Brushwork Matters: Use smooth, even strokes in the same direction. Overlap slightly on previously painted areas to avoid visible lines.
Let it Dry Completely: Don’t rush the drying process. Exterior paint needs ample time to cure properly, typically several hours between coats and 24-48 hours before using or exposing the painted surface to harsh elements. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions on your paint can for specific drying times.
Cleaning Up
Peel off the masking tape carefully while the paint is still slightly wet to prevent peeling off any paint.
Clean your brushes and rollers according to the paint type (water-based or oil-based) following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Dispose of paint cans and leftover paint properly. Never pour leftover paint down the drain or toss cans in the trash. Check with your local municipality for hazardous waste disposal guidelines.
Preventing Future Damage
Taking preventative measures can minimize the impact of future storms on your home’s exterior paint:
Regular Inspections: Inspect your home’s exterior paint job twice a year, ideally in spring and fall. Address minor issues like cracks or peeling paint promptly to prevent them from escalating into larger problems.
Strategic Trimming: Overhanging trees can trap moisture against your home’s exterior, contributing to paint failure. Trim branches that come into close contact with your house.
Gutter Maintenance: Clean clogged gutters regularly to ensure proper water drainage away from your house.
The Final Touch-Up
By following these steps and tips, you can effectively touch up your home’s exterior paint after a storm and restore its beauty and weather resistance. If you have any questions or the damage seems extensive, don’t hesitate to contact JT Paint & Design. Our team of experienced professionals is here to help you create a lasting impression with a flawless exterior paint job.
For over 15 years, JT Paint & Design has been the trusted choice for homeowners. Our skilled and insured crew can handle all your exterior painting needs, from minor touch-ups to complete transformations. We use top-quality paints and prioritize meticulous surface preparation for a long-lasting, weatherproof finish.
Don’t wait to restore your home’s curb appeal – contact JT Paint & Design today for a free, no-obligation estimate on your exterior painting project