Painting the exterior of your home is a cost-effective way to freshen up its appearance and increase its curb appeal. Shamrock Paints, a Benjamin Moore paint specialty store in Staten Island, NY, offers two convenient locations and all the tools and supplies that you need to get the job done right. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to paint your home’s exterior surfaces.
1. Prepare the Surface
First, thoroughly clean the surface of your home using a pressure washer and/or scrub brush and cleaning solution. Use a scraper or sandpaper to remove any peeling paint or rough patches. Then, repair any cracks or gaps in the siding or trim using exterior caulk, or exterior spackle and primer where necessary. For wood surfaces, it’s important to replace any rotten boards before proceeding.
2. Prime the Surface
Priming your exterior surface is an important step in the painting process. For wood surfaces, use a high-quality oil-based primer, and for stucco or masonry surfaces, use an acrylic masonry primer. For vinyl or aluminum surfaces, an exterior acrylic primer will provide the best adhesion.
3. Choose the Right Paint Color and Type
Benjamin Moore Paint offers a wide variety of high-quality exterior paint options. Selecting the right one will ensure that your newly painted surface will last for years to come. For all surfaces, we recommend either Benjamin Moore’s Aura Exterior paint or Benjamin Moore's Regal Select Exterior.
4. Paint the Surface
Now that you have prepared the surface, primed it, and selected your paint, it's time to apply the paint. Work in small sections, taking care not to overload your brush or roller with too much paint. Brush in the direction of the wood grain or siding. If using a roller, work from the top to the bottom of the surface, using a back-and-forth motion to ensure even coverage. A second coat may be necessary for particularly dark or bold colors.
Conclusion
Painting the exterior of your home can be a daunting task, but with the right preparation and approach, the end result can transform your home and add value. At Shamrock Paints, we have everything you need to get started, including high-quality Benjamin Moore paint, primers, and all the necessary tools to get the job done right. Stop by our Staten Island, NY store locations, or contact us for advice and inspiration on how to get started today.