The following suggestions will help make any exterior painting project easier.
 | Preparation Tips • Place drop cloths under areas being painted to protect plants, patio furniture, etc. • Check surfaces to be painted for cracks, depressions, and other imperfections and correct the problems as needed. • Clean off dust, dirt, chalk residue, and mildew from surfaces to be painted. • Prime surfaces. |
| Paint Application Tips • You can paint at surface temperatures as low as 40º F (5º C). • Begin painting on the side of the house that will remain in the shade until you are done, as direct sun causes rapid drying. • Work from the top down when painting shingle surfaces. • Work from side to side for clapboard surfaces. • Paint trim and window frames last. • Allow paint to dry completely before touching up or re-coating. • When you need to take a break, wrap brushes, rollers, and paint trays with plastic wrap to keep paint from hardening or developing a skin, and put the lids on open cans of paint. |
Cleanup Tips • Soaking brushes and rollers in soapy water loosens the paint and makes them easier to rinse clean. • If there is a little paint left in the can once you’ve finished painting, let it dry in the can before disposing of it in your local can recycling center. |