If you’re planning on painting your house’s exterior, you may wonder how long it takes. Depending on the size of your home and your level of expertise, it can take up to a few days. In addition, you should plan on using a paintbrush to do the work and multiple coats of paint.
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Preparing the Exterior of Your Home
before painting is an essential step for a long-lasting finish. In addition to being a great way to beautify your home, it’s necessary for safety reasons. If you don’t prepare the surface, you could end up with a messy job and a sloppy finish.
The first step in preparing the exterior of your home before painting is to check the surfaces for damage. Damaged areas can be caused by weather or insect activity. You should note where these problems are and clean them up.
You may also need to sand or scrape loose paint. A sanding process will leave a smooth boundary between bare wood and the new coat of paint.
You should cover these items with a tarp if you have plants or other small objects that can fall onto the ground during the sanding process. Alternatively, you can place plastic sheeting over these areas. However, you’ll need to remove the tarp at the end of each day. This will help prevent debris from destroying your plants.
For older houses, you may need to take special precautions. Paint applied to the exterior of homes built before 1978 may contain lead. Therefore, you must test the surface for information before you begin any exterior paint prep work.
Applying Multiple Coats of Paint
Painting the exterior of your home can be tedious. You need to prepare the area, remove light fixtures, and mask off windows. Choosing the right products can also help you avoid multiple coats.
The number of coats you need depends on the surface and circumstances. If you paint over drywall, you will need two coats of paint. This is one of the best ways to avoid streaks and uneven colors.
Depending on the quality of your paint, you may not need as many coats. Higher-quality paint has better pigments, resins, and additives. It will hide better, and it will also be thicker.
Another reason you might need to apply multiple coats is if you paint over a darker color. When you first paint, the base color will bleed through. With more coats of paint, the color will deepen and be closer to the manufacturer’s intended color register.
Similarly, the amount of time it takes for each coat of paint to dry will vary depending on the color you are using. Latex paint dries faster than oil-based paint.
In addition, climatic conditions can affect the required number of coats of paint. For example, if the weather is humid or rainy, you must wait longer before applying the second coat.
Avoiding Uninsured Painters Without Workers’ Compensation Coverage
There are several good reasons to consider painting your home’s exterior. Not only will it improve your property’s curb appeal, but it can also increase its value. But before you rush out and hire a painting contractor, you’ll also need to find the best interior house painters and exterior house painters to cater to all you need. There are also a few things you need to know.
First, you’ll want to make sure they’re licensed and insured. While not all painters are the same, you don’t want to get taken advantage of. Second, you’ll want to avoid unsolicited calls and “must sign now” deals. Third, you’ll want to check BBB’s online review pages to see if they’ve had any complaints. Finally, you’ll want to ask them to produce proof of insurance.
A painter without workers’ compensation coverage can cost you thousands of dollars. And while you’re at it, you should ask if a comprehensive business liability policy covers them.
As a homeowner, you should be aware of the risks of using an uninsured professional to do your painting. Fortunately, you can reduce your risk and ensure you get the best possible deal. However, it would be best if you never worked with a contractor who doesn’t have the proper licensing or insurance. Contact your local licensing authority if you’re unsure whether or not your prospective painting contractor is licensed and insured. This is especially important if you’re a homeowner in a state where such measures are mandated.
Cost of Painting a House Exterior
The cost of painting a house’s exterior depends on a few factors. Among the most important are the size and condition of the home, the type of paint, and the amount of prep work required.
Exterior paint is formulated to resist the effects of the elements, including dirt and moisture. It has an aesthetic appeal, and a fresh coat of paint can improve your home’s curb appeal.
Before beginning your painting project, consider whether you can do it yourself or if you need to hire a professional. You’ll need the proper equipment if you plan to do it yourself. You’ll also have to pay for labor, which can be as low as $25 per hour or as high as $100.
A fresh coat of paint can also help protect your home from harmful UV rays. However, it’s a good idea to check with your insurance provider before embarking on a painting project.
Painting a house exterior can be a daunting task. In addition to being a painter, you’ll need to buy supplies, set up your work area, and use heavy-duty ladders. Also, you’ll have to make additional preparations if you’re painting a brick home.
The cost of exterior painting varies significantly by region and zip code. In general, however, you can expect to spend between $500 and $2,400 to get your home painted.
