After I built my dream home, I realized that there were a few changes we needed to make to the interior. For starters, I knew that I needed to do something to make the interior decor special, so I started focusing more and more on making the space special. I started working with a professional painter and wallpaper hanger, and he really did wonders in making my home look and feel different and unique. I wanted to create a blog all about creating a gorgeous home, so I made this website. I hope you find articles that will inspire you to make your space better.
5 Tips For Painting Your Home's Exterior This Summer
Summer is often considered the ideal time to paint your home's exterior because the weather tends to be warm and dry. There are still a few things to keep in mind, though, for a successful summer paint job.
1. Monitor Pollen Levels
Pollen can be a major challenge when painting, especially in early summer when pollen levels tend to be high. Pollen can coat the walls of a home, getting stuck in the surface of fresh paint. Pollen doesn't just affect the color and texture of the paint, it can also weaken the adhesion so that the paint is more likely to chip and peel down the road. Plan to paint on a day when pollen levels are low, if possible.
2. Plan for Weather
Summer weather is usually ideal for painting, but there are a few common situations when it is best to put off painting. Don't paint on days when the humidity is high, for example, as the excess air moisture can prevent the paint from drying properly. Extremely hot temperatures can also affect drying time and the final adhesion of the paint. Finally, the weather should be dry. If afternoon thunderstorms are predicted, it may be best to postpone painting.
3. Protect Landscape Plants
A big challenge of painting in summer is that the plants that grow against your home's walls will be at their full size. It's usually best to have these pruned back ahead of painting so they aren't in the way. Your painters may also need to protect the plants from paint splatters and other types of damage. Covering sensitive plants with tomato cages and then draping dropcloths over them can provide this protection.
4. Clean Surfaces Thoroughly
Mildew and algae may be actively growing on your home's siding, especially in warm, humid weather. Plus there is the dirt and grime that collects over time. The day before painting is the ideal time to thoroughly scrub down or pressure wash the walls. This allows time for the walls to dry after cleaning so that the paint adheres betters, but doesn't give too much time for the dirt to accumulate again.
5. Avoid Mid-Day Heat
The best time to paint on a summer day is in the morning. Temperatures are cooler and the sun is less intense, so the paint doesn't dry too quickly as it is applied. The heat of the day is both uncomfortable to work in and it tends to dry the paint too quickly which makes peeling more likely.
Contact a residential painting service to learn more.