by michael daigle · 9 Jan 2024Have you been putting off painting the outside of your house because the wood siding looks too far gone? Those weathered, gray boards seem like they're beyond help, but with some proper prep work, even the most neglected exteriors can get a new lease on life. You don't need to completely replace your siding to get a fresh look and protection from the elements. With the right approach, you can clean, prime, and paint your way to a house exterior that looks better than new. Forget the intimidation of taking on such a big project—this is something any homeowner can do themselves for a fraction of the cost of siding replacement. Follow these steps to prep your weathered wood siding and apply a coat of paint that will make it last for years to come.
Assessing the Condition of Weathered Exteriors
Assessing the condition of weathered exteriors is crucial before you start prepping and painting. Walk around the entire exterior of the home and make notes of any damaged or deteriorating areas that need repairs.
Look for signs of rot or water damage. Check places where water can collect like windowsills, trim, and corners. Test any soft or spongy wood with a probe to determine if replacement is needed.
Inspect for peeling or bubbling paint. Use a putty knife or paint scraper to remove loose paint. Sand rough edges smooth. Clean the area thoroughly before priming and painting.
Examine siding and trim for dents, dings or holes. Fill any minor imperfections with wood filler or caulk and sand smooth. Larger holes or cracks may require wood patches or replacement boards.
Check for rust on railings, gutters, downspouts, and exterior hardware. Scrub off surface rust with steel wool or a wire brush and treat remaining rust with a rust inhibitor primer before painting. Severely rusted parts may need replacement.
A proper assessment of current conditions is key to achieving a long-lasting exterior paint job. Conducting repairs and ensuring a solid surface will allow new paint to properly adhere for maximum durability. With a little time and effort upfront, you’ll enjoy your home’s refreshed exterior for years to come.
Proper Prep Work for Painting Weathered Siding
Proper preparation is key to achieving a long-lasting paint job on weathered siding.
First, thoroughly clean the surface. Use a pressure washer to blast away dirt and debris. Scrub any stains with a degreaser or detergent and rinse well with water.
Once dry, inspect for any damaged areas in need of repair or replacement. Check for loose boards or siding, cracks, holes, or rotting wood and seal or patch them. You'll want a smooth, solid base for your new coat of paint to adhere to.
Next, lightly sand rough or uneven areas. Wipe away dust with a tack cloth to ensure strong adhesion. For the best results, consider priming bare wood or spots where you made repairs. An exterior primer protects the new wood and provides a uniform surface for the paint.
Finally, caulk any gaps around windows, doors, siding, trim, or the roofline. Use a paintable caulk and tool it smooth for the best appearance. Caulking seals joints and helps block air flow for improved energy efficiency.
With the proper prep work done, you're ready to start painting. Take your time and don't cut corners here. Quality preparation and a solid base will allow your new paint job to last for many years to come. Your effort and patience will pay off with exterior siding that looks its best and withstands the elements.
Choosing the Right Primers for Weathered Surfaces
Choosing the right primers is key to achieving maximum longevity of your exterior paint job. The primer acts as a bonding agent between the old weathered surface and the new paint. For the best results, you’ll want to consider the following factors:
Surface condition
The more weathered and porous the surface, the more it will need the proper primer to block stains and provide adhesion. For severely damaged wood or stucco, use an oil-based or acrylic stain-blocking primer. For less damaged surfaces, a basic acrylic primer will work well.
Type of exterior
The primer should be formulated specifically for the surface you’re painting. For wood, use a primer rated for exterior wood. For stucco, select a primer rated for masonry and stucco. For metal, choose a primer rated for exterior metal. The primer ratings ensure maximum compatibility and longevity.
Paint type
Make sure your primer is compatible with the type of paint you plan to use: oil or latex. Most painters today prefer latex paint, so choose a latex primer. Oil-based primers can be used under latex paint, but not vice versa. Latex paint won’t adhere well to an oil-based primer.
Tinting
Have your primer tinted to a shade slightly lighter than your topcoat paint color. This helps provide better coverage in fewer coats. For dark colors, a tinted primer is especially important. An untinted white primer under a dark paint may require an additional coat of paint to achieve an even finish.
By considering the condition of your exterior, choosing a primer specifically formulated for that surface, ensuring compatibility with your paint type, and having the primer tinted, you’ll achieve the best, longest-lasting results from your painting project. A quality primer may cost a bit more up front but will save you time, money, and frustration down the road.
Top Paints for Withstanding Outdoor Elements
The type of paint you choose for your weathered exterior is critical to its longevity. Here are some of the most durable options:
Acrylic latex paint
Acrylic latex is a popular choice for exteriors. It’s flexible, resistant to cracking, and allows moisture to pass through. Look for a quality brand with built-in primer and mildew resistance. For the best protection, apply two coats.
Oil-based paint
Oil-based paint is excellent for sealing and protecting. It has strong adhesion, so it’s ideal for covering cracks or imperfections. However, it has strong fumes, takes longer to dry, and requires the use of solvents for cleanup. It also tends to chalk and fade over time. Use oil-based paint only if latex won’t adhere properly.
Elastomeric paint
Elastomeric paint contains polymers that allow it to expand and contract with weather changes. It’s highly durable and resistant to cracking. Elastomeric paint is a great choice if you have a lot of cracks or an uneven surface to cover. It does require a primer and has a rubbery, textured finish.
Urethane paint
Urethane paint provides an extremely durable, chemical-resistant finish. It has superior gloss and color retention. However, it requires a primer, has strong fumes, and is difficult to apply. Urethane paint is best left to professionals and is usually only used for industrial applications or high-traffic commercial exteriors.
• For trim, doors, shutters and railings, use a paint specifically formulated for these areas. Regular exterior paint won’t adhere as well.
• Dark colors may require a coat of primer to prevent uneven color or the need for additional coats of paint.
• Check the recommended dry time between coats to ensure proper adhesion and durability. Rushing the job will only lead to premature paint failure.
With the right preparation and paint choice for your climate, your exterior will look fresh for many years to come. Choose a quality brand, apply a minimum of two coats, and be sure to maintain your investment with routine cleaning, touch-ups and inspections.
Painting Techniques for Weathered Wood and Masonry
Now that you’ve properly prepped the surface, it’s time to apply paint. For weathered exteriors, the painting technique you use is just as important as the prep work. The right approach will help your new paint job last for years to come.
Use a Primer
For the best results, apply a coat of primer specifically designed for exterior use. Primer helps the new paint better adhere to the surface. It also provides a smooth base coat so your topcoats look even and professional. For severely weathered wood or masonry, a primer is essential.
Apply at Least Two Topcoats
Two coats of high-quality exterior paint should be the minimum for a weathered surface. The first coat will soak into the porous areas of the wood or masonry. A second coat will provide an even, protective finish. For the most durable results, consider applying three topcoats. Make sure each coat is completely dry before applying the next.
Use a Paint Sprayer
For weathered exteriors, a paint sprayer typically provides the most even, professional-looking finish. Sprayers are also well suited for painting uneven or detailed surfaces. Be very careful to avoid drips and uneven coverage. Apply light coats, and make sure to backbrush after spraying for the best results.
Touch Up as Needed
Inspect the paint job carefully once done and touch up any drips, thin spots or missed areas. It’s best to do touch ups with a paintbrush, not a sprayer. Blend the new paint in well with the surrounding area. Small imperfections may be hard to spot until after the paint has dried completely.
With the proper prep work and painting technique, a weathered exterior can regain its curb appeal and be well protected from the elements. The time you invest now will pay off for years to come with a fresh, durable paint finish. Your home's exterior will look as good as new, thanks to your diligent work.
Achieving a Uniform Appearance on Mixed Surfaces
When painting weathered exteriors with multiple surface types like wood, stucco, and brick, achieving a uniform appearance can be challenging. The key is proper preparation and choosing a high-quality exterior paint formulated for the job.
Clean and Repair
Before painting, thoroughly clean all surfaces to remove dirt and debris. Scrub weathered wood and stucco, pressure wash brick, and scrape off any loose paint. Repair any damage to wood or stucco and patch cracks or holes. These steps help the new paint adhere better and provide an even finish.
Primer
For the best results, apply a primer. A primer helps seal and unify the different textures while providing a sound base for the topcoats of paint. Use a high-quality acrylic or alkyd primer designed for exteriors. For severely weathered surfaces, a primer with a stain-blocking additive works well. Two coats of primer may be needed on bare wood or stucco.
Top Quality Paint
Invest in a premium grade exterior paint, especially if painting a mix of surfaces. Higher quality paints provide better coverage in fewer coats and often contain advanced polymers for adhesion and durability. Look for a product rated for at least 15-20 years of protection on exteriors. An acrylic latex is a good all-purpose choice. For the most even sheen, choose a paint with a satin or eggshell finish.
Multiple Coats
Apply at least two coats of paint, waiting 2-4 hours between coats. Two thinner coats adhere and look better than a single thick coat. Use a brush to paint areas where the roller can’t reach. Roll paint onto the largest, flattest areas. Use a small roller for stucco or brick. Feather out the edges of the paint with a brush as you go to blend the surfaces smoothly together.
With the right prep, primer, paint, technique and patience, you can achieve a uniform, professional-looking finish on your weathered exterior. Your home will look refreshed and renewed for many years to come.
Preventing Peeling and Flaking on Vulnerable Areas
When prepping and painting exterior surfaces that have endured years of weathering, pay special attention to areas that are prone to peeling and flaking. These vulnerable spots will require extra prep to ensure your fresh coat of paint adheres properly.
Areas where siding or trim meets windows, doors, corners and edges are common trouble spots. The paint in these areas endures more stress from temperature changes and exposure, making it more likely to fail. Lightly sand these joints and edges to rough up the surface. Then apply a coat of primer specifically designed for covering peeling paint before you paint.
Painting over eaves and rafter tails presents challenges too, as it’s difficult to reach and paint these horizontal surfaces evenly. Use a small angled sash brush to cut in the edges where the eave meets the siding. Roll or spray the larger, flatter areas. Two coats of paint may be needed in this area to prevent the wood from showing through.
Wood siding, window sills, railings or trim that face south and west also tend to show wear and damage more quickly due to prolonged sun exposure. When prepping these areas, inspect for any damaged wood and make necessary repairs before priming and painting. You may want to apply a coat of paint with UV protection to help prevent future peeling and fading.
Concrete, stucco and brick elements like foundations, chimneys or entryways provide another surface for paint to potentially fail. Clean these masonry areas thoroughly to remove any dirt or efflorescence (chalky white deposits) before painting. Apply a masonry primer or sealer and at least two coats of paint, waiting 24 hours between coats. Top-quality acrylic or epoxy paints work best for masonry.
By properly preparing and priming vulnerable areas on weathered exteriors before painting, you'll ensure an attractive, long-lasting finish and prevent peeling, flaking and other premature paint failures. Your patience and diligence during this crucial first step will pay off for years to come.
Maintaining Painted Exteriors for Maximum Durability
To keep your newly painted exterior surfaces looking fresh for years to come, follow these tips for maximum durability:
Use high quality paint
Invest in premium exterior paint formulations that contain UV inhibitors and mildewcides. These help prevent fading, chalking, and mold growth which are major causes of paint failure. For the longest-lasting results, choose paints rated for at least 15-20 years.
Apply a primer
For the best adhesion, prime any bare wood or weathered areas before painting. Oil-based primers work well for exterior use. Priming seals the surface and provides a uniform base coat for your topcoat paint to bind to.
Check the weather
Only paint when the temperature is above 50 F and humidity is below 85%. Avoid painting in direct sunlight. These conditions help the paint dry properly and avoid issues like brush marks.
Apply two coats
No matter what the can says, for maximum protection you'll want to apply at least two coats of paint, waiting 2-4 hours between coats. The first coat adheres to the surface, the second coat adheres to the first, creating a stronger bond.
Inspect and touch up
Regularly inspect exterior surfaces for any signs of paint failure like cracking, peeling or blistering and make necessary touch-ups. Catching problem areas early prevents further damage and maintains protection. For touch-ups, dab on primer then re-paint the entire area for best results.
Re-paint every 5-8 years
Even with the most durable paint, exteriors require re-painting to look their best and prevent major damage. A good rule of thumb is to re-paint every 5-8 years. Freshen up by thoroughly cleaning the surface, lightly sanding, priming any bare spots and applying 2 coats of new paint. Your home's exterior will stay looking showroom new for decades to come!
FAQ on Prepping and Painting Weathered Exteriors for Longevity
Painting weathered exteriors requires some extra preparation to ensure good adhesion and longevity. Here are some frequently asked questions about prepping and painting weathered surfaces:
What's the best way to clean weathered siding?
The best way to clean weathered siding is:
- Use a pressure washer to loosen dirt and debris. Start with a lower pressure, around 500 to 800 PSI, and work your way up to avoid damaging the siding.
- Scrub any remaining stuck-on grime with a detergent solution and scrub brush.
- Rinse thoroughly with water to remove all dirt and cleaning solution residue.
- Allow the siding to dry completely before painting.
Do I need to prime weathered surfaces before painting?
It is highly recommended to prime weathered exterior surfaces before painting for the best results. Priming:
- Provides a sound base for paint to adhere to.
- Blocks stains from bleeding through.
- Creates a uniform surface for an even paint finish.
- Use an oil- or shellac-based primer for the best adhesion to weathered surfaces. Latex primer can work for small cracks and holes but may not adhere as well overall.
How long do I need to wait between coats?
It's best to follow the recommendations on your specific paint product's instructions to determine how long to wait between coats. As a general rule of thumb:
- Allow 2-6 hours between coats for most standard latex paints.
- 8-12 hours for oil-based paints.
- Overnight dry time is even better, when possible.
- Make sure each coat is fully dry before applying the next coat. Test an inconspicuous area with your fingernail to ensure it's dry and not tacky before proceeding.
- Additional coats provide better protection and durability. Most professionals recommend at least two coats of paint for exteriors, and sometimes three coats.
How can I improve the longevity of exterior paint on weathered siding?
To maximize the longevity of your exterior paint job on weathered siding:
- Use a high quality, exterior-grade paint that is specifically formulated for the siding material, such as aluminum, vinyl, wood, etc.
- Apply a primer first, then two coats of paint at a minimum.
- Follow the recommended re-coat times to allow proper drying between coats.
- Paint when humidity is lower than 80% and avoid painting in direct sunlight if possible.
- Clean siding thoroughly before painting to remove any dirt or debris.
- Consider using a clear topcoat like polyurethane to protect the finish. Re-apply every 2-5 years.
- Inspect the paint finish regularly and make any necessary touch-
Final Thoughts
So there you have it, the keys to prepping and painting weathered exteriors for maximum longevity. Put in the effort to thoroughly clean and scrape any loose paint or wood. Prime any bare spots and use a stain-blocking primer for severe stains. Choose a high-quality exterior paint formulated for longevity. Apply at least two coats, waiting for each to dry as directed. Use a brush to get into cracks and crevices. Roll the large, flat areas. Spray only if you have experience. Follow the tips for ideal conditions and proper safety precautions. Take your time and do it right. Your home deserves it and you'll be rewarded for years to come with a fresh, durable finish. Now grab your supplies and get to work! With some elbow grease and the right techniques, you'll have your place looking better in no time.