Exterior Painting Near Me: Tips and Tricks to Revitalize Your Home 

Imagine your home transformed by a new, vibrant shade. Like a butterfly emerging from its cocoon, the familiar contours of your house get a fresh start in life, catching eyes and turning heads. This stunning metamorphosis isn’t the result of expensive and time-consuming renovations but what resulted from a simple Google search: “exterior painting near me.”

Exterior painting plays a crucial role in every homeowner’s life and has to do with more than aesthetics. A benefit of painting your home’s exterior is that a fresh, well-applied coat of paint acts as a shield against weather elements, prolonging the longevity of your home’s exterior. But, more importantly, a fresh paint job can breathe new life into your home, elevate curb appeal, and boost your property’s value. 

According to a study, a freshly painted home can yield a Return on Investment (ROI) of up to 51%, and when you think about real estate prices, that percentage translates into a lot of cash should you sell. But it’s not just about monetary value. A well-executed paint job adds immeasurable curb appeal, making your home the star of the neighborhood, standing out in all its vibrant glory.

Apart from elevating your property’s value and attractiveness, exterior painting plays a protective role, acting as the first line of defense against the harsh elements of nature. High-quality paint can safeguard your home from harmful UV rays, rain, snow, and even pests, ensuring the structural integrity of your home’s exterior. The coating of paint seals off vulnerable areas, preventing moisture from seeping into your walls, which can lead to costly repairs down the line.

Finally, there’s the aspect of homeowner pride. An undeniable sense of satisfaction comes from owning an aesthetically pleasing and well-maintained home. It’s a reflection of your style and a testament to your care for your property. This pride often rubs off on the neighborhood as well, lifting the overall aesthetic and appeal of the community.

This blog post will act as your ultimate guide to exterior painting. We’ll walk you through valuable tips and tricks, discuss the importance of hiring professionals versus going the DIY route, delve into paint selection, and provide a sneak peek into the painting process. We want to empower you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions, ultimately ensuring the best results for your home.

DIY Exterior Painting vs. Hiring an Exterior Painting Contractor

Before we dive into DIY (Do It Yourself) vs. hiring an exterior painting contractor, it is worth discussing the different types of paints and the factors that can influence your paint selection when researching exterior painting near me.  

 There are two types of paints that are the most commonly used for exterior painting: 

1. Water-based paints: These are popular due to their quick-drying nature, low VOC levels (which makes them more environmentally friendly), and easy cleanup with water. They’re also highly resistant to cracking, maintain their color for longer, and adhere well to various surfaces.
2. Oil-based paints: These provide a smooth, durable finish that is highly resistant to wear and tear. They’re excellent for high-traffic areas and surfaces exposed to harsh weather conditions. However, they take longer to dry, have a strong odor, require mineral spirits for cleanup, and may be subject to yellowing over time.

When selecting paint, quality should take precedence over cost. Higher-quality paints contain more pigment and resin, which translates into a thicker, longer-lasting coat and a better-looking finish. 

Also, your local climate plays a significant role in your choice of paint. For example, water-resistant paints would be a wise choice if you live in a rainy area. On the other hand, if your home is exposed to a lot of sunlight, opt for paint with UV protection to prevent premature fading. Wichita, Kansas, experiences hot, humid summers and cold, dry winters, so choose when you paint wisely.

Of course, don’t forget color psychology. Warm colors like red and yellow create a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, while cool colors like blue and green can project a calm and serene vibe. Neutral colors like white, beige, or gray offer a classic and timeless look.

DIY exterior painting 

In an era of online tutorials and DIY guides, tackling an exterior painting project by yourself is tempting. Should you choose the DIY route, you have complete control over the project. You can choose your pace and the paint you use and make on-the-spot decisions. It can also be cost-effective if you already have the necessary tools and equipment.

However, an exterior painting job requires more than enthusiasm. It demands skill, knowledge, and physical labor. Challenges can include time-consuming prep work, choosing the right paint, working with ladders for high areas, and dealing with unexpected weather changes or complications. Most importantly, a poorly done paint job can cost more in the long run due to maintenance issues and could affect your home’s value.

Hiring a professional painting contractor

A team like Koehn Painting brings expertise and experience to the table. We have the right tools, know-how, and a trained eye for detail. We can expertly prep your house, suggest the best paint options, and apply the paint efficiently and safely, all while adhering to the highest industry standards.

In addition, we work within a set timeframe, meaning your project will be completed promptly without dragging on for weeks. And should any issues or complications arise, we are equipped to handle them professionally.

We recently completed a project for Tony ZImbelman, and this is what he had to say: 

“We use Koehn Painting for our new residential and commercial painting work. Very well ran company with good supervision and dependable employees. They are able to handle our smallest jobs up to our large commercial projects. I have recommended them to other contractors in our area.”

A DIY painting project can be rewarding if you have the time, skills, tools, and patience. However, for a stress-free experience and a professional, long-lasting result, hiring professionals like Koehn Painting is often the smartest decision.

Contact us here if you would like to find the best painting contractor for your residential or commercial needs.

10 Tips and Techniques for Exterior Painting; Newton, KS 

Let’s assume you are interested in contractors for exterior painting. Newton, KS, has lots of stores where you can find the paint and equipment you need. Just search “exterior painting near me.” However, for those interested in doing it themselves and not hiring exterior house painting contractors, here are some tips to observe: 

1. Get the lead out: If your home was built before 1978, testing for lead paint is crucial. This is because prior to the banning of lead paints for residential use by the government in 1978, homes had lead paint. This substance can be harmful if it becomes airborne, hence the need for protective measures. Equip yourself with plastic drop cloths, a HEPA vacuum, masks, and exterior painting contractor Tyvek suits, and dispose of all used materials at an approved site. This ensures your safety and that of your surrounding environment.
2. Wash the exterior: To achieve a smooth, clean canvas for painting, clean your exterior walls with water and a phosphate-free cleanser. This removes grime, dirt, and mildew. This can be done manually or by hiring a professional exterior painting contractor to pressure wash your siding for a more thorough cleaning.
3. Scrape off loose paint: Loose or flaking paint can compromise the appearance and durability of your new paint job. Use tools like a handheld scraper, a hot-air gun, or an infrared paint stripper to remove peeling paint. When dealing with lead paint, always take safety precautions to avoid exposure.
4. Sand rough spots: Some areas may feel rough after scraping off loose paint. A pad sander or random-orbit fitted with 80-grit sandpaper helps smooth these spots. If you’re dealing with lead paint, using sanders with HEPA filters is essential to ensure safety.
5. Fill and repair: Wood siding can be susceptible to holes, chips, and other minor defects over time. Use patching putty or compound to fill these in. If there’s significant rot or drainage issues, replacing the problematic wood and fixing any contributing problems may be best.
6. Apply primer: After preparing the wood siding, apply primer immediately. This provides an even base for the topcoats and can enhance the vibrancy of your chosen paint color. Be sure to choose a primer type based on the existing paint (latex or oil-based).
7. Caulk all joints: High-quality caulks are necessary to ensure a smooth finish, prevent air leaks, and protect against water penetration. This can help maintain the durability of your paint job and your home’s structural integrity.
8. Choose the right paint: Selecting the appropriate paint is crucial. Water-based acrylic latex paint is generally recommended for its easy application and clean-up. However, if your house was initially painted with oil-based paint, it’s best to stick with that type. Choose paint finishes that provide sun ray protection and durability.
9. Apply top coat(s): The application of topcoats should be done sparingly to promote better bonding and longevity. The number of coats required can vary based on the color change.
10. Practice good maintenance: Protect your fresh paint job by carrying out regular maintenance. This includes an annual inspection of the caulk, removal of mold or mildew, washing off stains, and promptly addressing any blisters or peels before they spread.

In addition to the above tips, there are some essential painting techniques that you must always remember: 

• Master brushing, rolling, and cutting in: Brushing with a high-quality paintbrush allows for precise application in small and intricate areas. Rolling is more efficient for covering large spaces, while cutting in involves painting around the trim or borders first before filling in the rest of the area, ensuring clean, sharp edges.
• Consider the weather conditions: Weather conditions significantly affect how your paint dries and adheres to the surface. It’s best to avoid painting under direct sunlight, which can cause the paint to dry too quickly, leading to cracks and blisters. High winds can lead to debris sticking to your fresh paint. Freezing temperatures can affect the paint’s consistency and adhesion, and any chance of rain can ruin a wet paint job. Always check the forecast before you start.
• Work from top to bottom: Doing so ensures accidental drips won’t mar finished areas. Begin with the large areas and then move on to the finer details, allowing each color to dry before applying the next one. This strategy keeps your workflow organized, resulting in a cleaner, more professional-looking paint job. 
• Practice laying on and laying off the paint: Laying on the paint involves applying it quickly and efficiently, while laying off the paint refers to spreading it evenly and smoothly before it starts to dry. The latter step reduces visible brush or roller marks, giving a uniform finish.
• Paint doors like a pro: Doors, especially panel doors, require a specific technique for an even finish. Start with the panels, then move to the rails and stiles. Finish the job by smoothing the paint with long strokes in the direction of the wood grain. This reduces the appearance of brush strokes and ensures an even coating.
• Keep a wet edge: Keeping a wet edge is crucial for a seamless paint job. This involves always brushing or rolling back into paint that’s still wet. By maintaining a wet edge, you can prevent overlapping lines or ‘lap marks’ that occur when you paint over dried or partially dried paint.
• Save time with smart painting: To save time, consider painting the edges of window and door casings the same color as the siding paint. This strategy simplifies the process by eliminating the need for precise ‘cutting in’ around these areas with a different color.

Exterior Painting Near Me: Maintaining Your Home’s Exterior Paint

Congratulations! You have made the journey from searching “exterior painting near me” to having the exterior of your home painted. Now that the job is done, it’s essential to maintain the look and durability of your exterior paint:

• Perform yearly paint coating inspection: An annual check of your paint coating can help identify any issues early and prolong your paint job’s lifespan. Pay close attention to signs of wear and tear, such as fading, cracking, or peeling.
• Treat mildew and mold: These fungi can grow on exterior paint, especially in damp, shaded areas or northern exposures. Treat affected areas with a mixture of three parts water to one part bleach, taking care to protect plants, and use personal protective equipment. Leave the solution on for about 15 minutes before rinsing or power washing.
• Clean off dirt and chalk: Airborne dirt can discolor your paint and provide a breeding ground for mildew, while chalky pigments from the paint can cause fading and streaking. Remove both by scrubbing or power washing, preferably with mild detergents. Avoid harsh alkaline cleaners, like TSP, as they can dull your paint’s gloss.
• Use power washing sparingly: While power washing is a highly effective cleaning method, it can potentially lift paint or damage the substrate. Due to its aggressive nature, limit power washing to 1-2 times per year.
• Check for cracking and peeling paint: Regular inspections for cracking and peeling paint can help you catch and repair issues early, thus avoiding extensive paint failures and high repainting costs. Pay special attention to open joints around doors, windows, and trim, which should be filled with high-quality caulking compounds. Caps, window sills, and surfaces painted in darker colors are often the first to peel. Scrape, sand, spot prime, and touch up these areas as needed.

Maintaining your home’s exterior paint job is relatively simple and goes a long way in extending its lifespan. With a little effort and vigilance, your home can continue to shine and impress for years to come.

Remember, Koehn Painting is not just about providing high-quality painting services; we’re also committed to ensuring that your home remains pristine long after our job is done. If you ever need professional assistance, we’re just a call away.

If you want to learn more about Koehn and our painting services, feel free to get a quote from us.