Use a wire brush to remove old paint from a home's foundation. For a more professional finish, use sandpaper to smooth the surfaces of high-profile areas, such as window sills and entryways. Exposed wood or siding should be primed with an oil-based primer to protect it from moisture. Priming wood will help to give your paint an even finish. Consider pressure washing.
Many paint manufacturers recommend pressure washing a home prior to painting.
It should never be used as a substitute for scraping, however. Pressure washing to remove old paint causes wood siding to absorb too much water. The moisture will keep the new paint from adhering to the surface and can cause wood to rot. Watch the forecast carefully. Because paint dries very quickly in hot weather, professionals recommend painting when the temperature outdoors is between 50 and 90 degrees.