[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Preparing your home for new exterior paint is like getting ready for prom. Success starts with a thorough bath. In painting, it’s called pressure washing. But before you or your professional painter begins hosing the house, there are a few steps for getting it ready.
[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Hiring Professionals” use_theme_fonts=”yes” el_class=”post_inner_title”][vc_column_text]You may want to consider hiring professionals for all steps in the process to complete work in a timely manner and avoid spending all your weekend and after-work hours completing the project.
Cleaning gutters is a familiar task for many homeowners, but most seek trimming of large trees from professionals with proper equipment and training. Likewise, removing flaking paint and crumbly grout requires lots of hours on ladders. Professional painting contractors in St Charles should include these tasks in their bids.
In particular, pressure washing is a job that requires proper tools and training. Otherwise, injuries may occur as well as damage to your home. When hiring a professional, ask whether pressure washing is included in the company’s painting services.[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Trimming Trees & Plants” use_theme_fonts=”yes” el_class=”post_inner_title”][vc_column_text]To make it easier to get close to the walls and trim of your house, it’s helpful to trim back overhanging trees and shrubs along the foundation and any climbing plants that are clinging to walls[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Cleaning & Repairing Gutters” use_theme_fonts=”yes” el_class=”post_inner_title”][vc_column_text]Leaves clogging gutters and downspouts need to be removed. You should patch any holes in the gutter system and repair loose connections to the roof line, such as broken strap hangers.[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Scraping & Sanding Flaking Material” use_theme_fonts=”yes” el_class=”post_inner_title”][vc_column_text]This part of the process includes removal of any surprises, such as animal or insect nests (beware the papery abodes of wasps).
Paint that is peeling on the trim or siding needs to be scraped and sanded to improve application of primer and paint. This work needs to be done while the house is dry and before pressure washing, because any sand or flakes left on surfaces will resist paint.
Caulking may be necessary for cracked seams between clapboards. Repointing of crumbly grout between bricks should be allowed to dry before pressure washing occurs.[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Pressure Washing” use_theme_fonts=”yes” el_class=”post_inner_title”][vc_column_text]In addition to peeling paint and dust, this step in the prepping process removes chalk and mildew. If you want a paint job that will last, remove dirt.
Although high-pressure equipment often is called for when washing commercial structures and driveways, a lower setting is best for houses. Professionals trained in low-pressure spraying can avoid harm to your home, including water that gets under siding and creates mold.
Low pressure also is best for any plantings near your home as is the use of landscape-friendly cleaning agents.
For professional preparation and exterior painting, please contact Prime Time Painting today for a free estimate.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
