Don’t be fooled by those TV home improvement shows—painting your exterior is harder than you think. However, when done properly, giving your residential roofing system and siding a fresh coat of paint is a cost-effective way of enhancing its curb appeal.
What are the common exterior painting mistakes you should avoid?
1. Using the Wrong Tools and Paint
Each brush and rolls leave a specific finish while water- and oil-based paint are suitable for certain types of surfaces. For instance, most homeowners prefer water-based paints as they’re easier to use than oil-based paints. As for the right tools, soft brushes are suited to applying stains and finishes while stiff brushes—which can hold a larger amount of paint—are ideal for leaving clean lines on the surface. If you prefer using paint rollers, here’s a good rule of thumb: the smoother the roller, the smoother the surface it’s supposed to be used on and the smoother the paint it leaves on the surface.
2. Not Using Primer
Paint and primer products are fine for casual paint jobs. But for heavy-duty work, you need to apply primer. That’s because the name paint and primer in one is a bit misleading. Products marketed as such don’t have primer—they’re just a thicker kind of paint that gives a sturdier finish.
3. Forgetting to Prep the Surface
Don’t forget to clean the surface of your exterior before applying paint. Accumulated dust and dirt will prevent paint from sticking to the surface.
4. Attempting to Paint Your Exterior Without Any Experience
DIY paint jobs almost always end up costing homeowners in the long run. As a rule of thumb, you should let professionals handle home improvement projects, including roof repair and exterior painting projects.
Looking for reputable contractors near you?
Masters Roofing is the largest residential roofing company in the Mid-South area. We offer a wide range of professional exterior services, including residential and commercial roofing services as well as exterior painting services. To request a free estimate, call us at (901) 871-7663 or fill out this form. We serve homeowners in Memphis, TN, as well as the surrounding communities.