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Step 1
Even if the exterior of your home is in good shape, it should be washed to remove any dust or grime which could adversely affect the application of paint.
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Step 2
WASHING THE SURFACE
Most surfaces can be either hand washed or washed with a power washer. Different surfaces require different techniques.
Always wear protective clothing, especially goggles. This is especially important when anything has been added to the water.
If the surface has a CHALKY APPEARANCE, use a mild household detergent and a stiff brush.
If there is MILDEW present you will need to use a solution of 1 part bleach to 3 parts of water. Brush to remove. Rinse well.
If there is EFFLORESCENCE, you will need to use a solution of 1 part muriatic acid to 10 parts of water. Brush to remove. Rinse surface well.
If you are going to repaint the surface that has been cleaned by the above means, your must neutralize the acid by rinsing it with a solution of 1 cup of a non sudsing ammonia in 1 gallon of water. Rinse well with water. Let dry and paint.
If there are GREASE OR OIL stains on the surface, wipe off what you can with old toweling or similar material and then scrub with a trisodium phosphate solution. Follow the directions on the container. You will need to scrub this in with a stiff brush. For this wear rubber gloves. Rinse thoroughly. -
Step 3
In some cases you may have to REMOVE EXISTING PAINT.
Be especially careful if the paint is very old. It may contain lead or other toxic materials. In this case it must be removed with a stripper that actually bonds with the paint that is being removed. Check with your home supply depot for such a stripper and follow all instructions carefully.
If you are dealing with a safe paint, and the area is small, scrape off the old paint, and sand well.
If the area is large, use heat.
DO NOT USE A PROPANE TORCH OR AN ELECTRIC HEAT GUN for this as the air from these is very hot and may blow into tiny cracks where dust has accumulated. Here the hot air could easily start a fire.
Use an electric plate. Move it slowly along the surface and follow with a paint scraper.
You can also use a power sander. Sand along the length of the member being sanded.
You can use a disk sander, which is best for the job, or you can use a belt sander. Always start with a coarse grit. -
Step 4
If you want to remove the gloss from a previous paint job so the next coat will adhere, use a fine grit paper.
Use abrasive disks if you are removing paint from metalwork. Again, always wear goggles and protective clothing. -
Step 5
Before you begin painting, check the surface to be covered. Remove and replace any cracked or broken caulking.
Check around windows and joints and repair cracks or blemishes.
Set protruding nail heads and fix loose siding.
Your job will have a more professional appearance if your prepare properly.
