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Step 1
Know what latex house paint is an acrylic or acrylic blend formula which means it provides a durable finish. It resists yellowing or weathering with age.
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Step 2
Know the advantages of latex house paint. It dries faster than oil based paint, so you can apply a second coat sooner and get it done in less time. It cleans up with water and covers well.
Easy to apply and low odor, but remember that brushes and rollers made of natural materials will soak up the water in the paint and become soggy. Avoid using in extreme temperatures as hot weather will evaporate the water within the paint too soon causing uneven flow. Cold weather can also cause and uneven flow. -
Step 3
Know what surfaces it works well with. Stucco, shingles, brick, wood, and metals (that have been properly prepared) can all be painted with latex house paint. Latex can be used even when the weather is a bit damp, because it's a porous finish, unlike oil based paint.
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Step 4
Pick your best time to paint. Spring or fall are best for moderate temperatures and it's More comfortable to paint away from direct sunlight. Paint the east side in afternoon and the west side in the morning to beat the sun.
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Step 5
Punch holes with an awl into the rim around the paint can to stop overflows. Tape the can onto a flattened paper plate to catch any dribbles from the brush or can.
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Step 6
Stir paint and pour it into a bucket, can or pan and close up the paint can to keep it clean. Paint with a thick coat when using latex, even if you know you'll need a second coat.
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Step 7
Take your breaks or stop for the day when you are at an edge such as where wood meets brick or at a corner. This prevents marks from the paint lapping over the last place you painted. If you are opening a new can of paint when you start, subtle differences in the color won't be noticeable, either.
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Step 8
Paint the trim in a higher gloss finish than the house itself as doors and window sills are prone to heavier use than exterior walls. If the trim is already painted with a semi or high gloss finish, it will have to be sanded before repainting.
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Step 9
Paint from the top to the bottom to prevent dripping on work already done. Paint about three linear feet at a time working from the top all the way down. Dip paint into the bucket and dab in on the house in several places and then draw the brush evenly over it for a smooth finish. Work this way down one three foot section at a time until you're finished.
