Author: LanceLaGrange
1. Key indicators your home is in need of a fresh coat of paint include those both obvious and not. An obvious indicator would be cracked and peeling paint. Often, by the time you notice this, the wood has already become damaged. Also, if mildew is not controlled regularly, the area should be washed and checked for damage. A more subtle sign it is time for a repaint might be a less glossy shine.
2. A common problem on older homes can be nails that rust and leave streak marks. A simple solution is to tap in the nails, spray them with Rust-Off®, then touch them up with paint. It may also be a good investment to buy galvanized nails so you won’t encounter this problem again.
3. When painting brick homes with latex or flat paints, be aware that the paint will peel and wear sooner than satin and semi-gloss paints.
4. Taking a close look at the areas where the fascia and soffit meet is also important. The caulking in these areas tends to dry up faster and begin to separate, crack, and expose the wood to moisture. It is a good idea to have this repaired even before you would consider an exterior paint job for your home.
5. When dealing with doors, especially stained doors, it is very important that you pay close attention to its condition. Any door that is in direct sunlight will need to be re-stained once a year. A painter can come out and complete this job for around $150 in just a few hours. However, the longer you wait, the more likely you could end up paying close to $400 to get it done.
In most cases, good preparation and quality paints make all the difference. Not allowing the condition of your exterior paint to deteriorate can help you avoid costly repairs and potentially lower the value and aesthetic appeal of your home.
About the Author:
Lance LaGrange is the owner of LaGrange Painting LLC in Lafayette, LA
