Here is a checklist of pro painting tips that will make exterior painting chores easier, and will ensure that your paint job will provide all the beauty and protection your paint products were designed to deliver. Before washing your house to clean it for painting, remove any old or cracked caulk. Cracked caulk can let water from the pressure washer enter between building components and cause wood rot or failed paint. This will seal all cracks so water from the pressure washer cannot penetrate behind siding or trim. An added benefit is better energy conservation and lower utility bills.
Preparation is the most important part of painting.
Paint will not stick to surfaces that are dirty, mildewed or badly chalked. For better adhesion of the new paint, use sandpaper to break the film or surface on high gloss paint. Surfaces that are not washed and weathered by rain can become very dirty and may require special cleaning attention. These unwashed areas may include soffits, roof overhangs and porch ceilings, along with house siding that is protected by porches or awnings. Use a stiff scrub brush and deck cleaner or TSP to clean these protected areas.