An exterior painter is a professional skilled in the art of exterior painting and is referred to as either a residential painter or commercial painter. The main function of exterior painting is to enhance the external look of a structure, to fend it off damage from weather, moisture, bugs and mold, and also to beautify it. A paint job done on a home’s exterior can be done on a weekend or a month-long project as needed. Painting jobs are done on structures that are not in use, like sheds, storage facilities, garages, or a home’s exterior walls. Exterior painting projects require different techniques and materials than interior painting projects.
One of the most important factors in choosing the right professional painter for your project is the skill level of the crew. Some painters specialize in residential projects only, while others work on both residential and commercial buildings. The types of tools used for exterior painting also vary according to the type of job. Different tools include pressure washers, power paint brushes, sprayers with rollers, adhesives and vinyl-based sealants, roller applicators, and airless paint guns.
Before painting, make sure the surface is thoroughly cleaned, including any cracks, and allow for adequate drying time. After cleaning, test the surface by applying a fresh coat of paint. Make sure the color is smooth, evenly applied, and that the color is similar to the original color of the siding. It is best to match a fresh coat of exterior paint to an existing color (if applicable) of the siding. The color of the exterior paint can be changed at a later time if the homeowner wishes to do so.
After the surface has been prepped, an exterior painting job can begin. An exterior painter will usually start by using a paint roller on the surface to remove any loose or flaking material. The roller is then used to apply the primer, which is used to cover and protect the surface as well as create a smooth surface to which the acrylic paint can be applied. A clean, steel wool pads are next used to apply the exterior paint job.
Once the primer has been applied and dried, the acrylic paint is applied. It is important to remember to use even coats of the paint. Loose or flaky surfaces will not only look unsightly but will also make it difficult to apply the final coats of paint. For this reason, it is important to make sure all surfaces are even after the primer has been applied and all dry after the drying time for the exterior painting project has come to an end.
After the primer has been applied, a high-quality sprayer is used to create a smooth, glossy and even coat on all surfaces. If possible, it is preferable to use an airless sprayer to prevent any damage to the exterior surfaces while painting. It is also important to make sure the airless sprayer is of a high quality. Some low-quality sprays contain ingredients that can discolor or damage the surface when sprayed with a high-quality coating. High-quality airless sprayers are made from durable materials and are easy to maintain.
When the exterior painting project is complete, it is important to allow it to dry completely before removing the finish. Exterior painting should not be done if the paint dries to a matte or dull color. The finished project should also not be done on freshly stained or peeling paint surfaces. In addition, if there is already frost on the outside surfaces, it is best to wait until the surrounding temperature has cooled before applying a final coat. This will ensure that the frost does not damage the surface. If the project involves painting over frosted areas, it is important to make sure the existing frost is properly removed before beginning the final coat.
One last tip: In order to prevent having to sand, scrape or paint trim when spring comes and the outdoor temperatures start to increase, it is best to wait to finish until after the first freeze. The winter chill makes it easier to remove the finish once it has begun to chip or flake. It is also important to make sure the tools used to paint are not too sharp or jagged. As soon as spring begins, it is important to prepare all surfaces for the upcoming summer. If an exterior painting project is completed early in the spring, it is better to use protective plastic sheeting to keep the project protected from the weather. Otherwise, the project may begin to crack and fade.