Tips for Painting a House

Hi, I'm Barry Hagendorf of Deck and Patio Care.

With 18 years of experience, I have become the expert on how to care for decks, fences, flagstone, and pebblestone. My expertise is cleaning and sealing exterior surfaces and exterior and interior painting.

Q: I need to paint. What is the first thing I need to do?

A: All exterior painting starts with cleaning the house. First, spray the entire house with bleach, diluted 2 to 1. This will kill the mold and mildew, and will oxygenate the surface. Before applying the bleach mildicide, be sure to protect your plants and grass. Do this by wetting them with water and covering them with plastic. Work by sections by moving the plastic as you work around the house.

Q: What kind of paint should I use?

A: Choose a quality brand that will be around a long time. More importantly, buy the best quality of exterior paint sold.

Q: What are paint additives?

A: They are agents the paint stores can add to each can of paint. For exterior use, I always add to the amount of mildicide in the paint. This keeps mold and mildew from growing on the paint. There is also an insecticide additive. It keeps the bugs from building little homes on your house.

Q: What about color?

A: If you don't know, call an interior designer. They are usually experienced with color.