It may be a good idea to lay some sheeting at the base of the structure as well to catch wood shavings or flecks of paint that come loose during the project.
Whatever you’re painting has to be clean of any grease, dirt, or debris before you can paint it. Remember to check for things like vine roots that might be growing along the surface, as well. [3] X Expert Source Andres MatheuCommercial Painter Expert Interview. 28 July 2020. Pressure washing may be a more efficient option for renewing larger surfaces, especially areas like fences that may have algae, moss, or mildew growth. [4] X Expert Source Andres MatheuCommercial Painter Expert Interview. 28 July 2020. Pressure washers are typically available to rent at hardware stores and home improvement centers. [5] X Research source Avoid using stiff brushes or scrubbers like steel wool. It’s possible for these tools to leave behind permanent scratches in softer woods.
Two-part resin systems tend to stick to exterior wood better than ordinary fillers. Repairing damaged and uneven areas to ensure that the surface you’re painting is uniform and structurally sound.
If there are any nails sticking out of the exterior, remove them (if they’re not necessary) or drive them 1⁄4 inch (0. 64 cm) into the face of the wood to get them out of the way before filling the holes. [8] X Research source
Continue scraping until there are no protrusions on the face of the exterior. The sharper the scraper, the easier it will be to remove the failing paint. For best results, equip yourself with a scraper that has a hardened steel or carbide edge. [9] X Research source
It’s not necessary to sand the contours all the way down to the wood—just “feather” them lightly so that the edges gradually disappear. If ignored, old paint lines can create seams under the new topcoat, which can become prone to cracking as a result.
Even with a resin-blocking primer, it’s advisable to use 2-3 coats to conceal potential bleeding when it comes time to paint the surface.
Be sure to hit corners, recesses, molding, and any other features you intend to paint, as well. Be sure to sand away any wood splints, as well. [13] X Expert Source Andres MatheuCommercial Painter Expert Interview. 28 July 2020. It’s not necessary to remove the old paint. A thorough sanding should rough up the exterior enough to help fresh coats stick.
A shop vacuum with a brush attachment might help you collect more dust from broad areas. Drag your finger along the wood to make sure no traces of dust remain. Paint has a hard time adhering to surfaces that are coated with lots of fine particles.
You should be able to cover about 400 square feet (about 37 square meters) with a single gallon of primer. Make sure it’s between 50–90 °F (10–32 °C) outside when you apply the primer. If it’s too hot or too cold, it may not dry with the right consistency. [16] X Research source
Use the tip of the brush to work the primer deeper into dips and divots in rich wood grain. Start at the top of the structure and work your way down. That way, any drips will be erased as you go back over them.
Paint may peel or wear away faster in places without a primer foundation.
Leave the primer to dry overnight before applying your first coat of paint to ensure that it has time to absorb into the wood.
The caulk you use should be paintable, able to withstand both high and low temperatures, and suitable for the materials it’s binding. [20] X Research source Pay close attention to potential problem areas, like the spaces beneath board laps, around window frames, and in-between trim and siding.
