Things You'll Need
Scaffolding or ladder
Leather gloves
Dust mask
Safety glasses
Paint scraper
Putty knife
Paper bag
Duct tape
Utility brush
Caulking gun
Caulk
Medium-grit sandpaper
Sanding sponge
Paintbrush
Primer
Paint
Exterior columns on your home can add a touch of elegance. They provide structural support and enhance the overall warmth and texture of your foundation. Like any exterior surface, they require occasional maintenance. This includes renewing the paint every few years. Painting columns is not complicated and makes a good do-it-yourself project.
Step 1
Erect scaffolding if necessary for a solid base on which to work on. Depending on the height of your columns, scaffolding might be required to accomplish this task safely. If you have a number of columns to paint, it will make your job easier. It is available at most home improvement stores for rent. For columns that are low and few in number, a good, solid ladder will work.
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Step 2
Tackle your project in thirds -- high, middle, and low. Put on a dust mask, gloves, and glasses. Scrape away old paint using the scraper and putty knife. Tape a paper bag to the column to catch paint chips as they fall for easy cleanup.
Step 3
Use sanding blocks and medium-grit sandpaper to smooth the finish. Brush off debris using a utility brush.
Step 4
Fill in gaps between the column and the exterior of your house with caulk. Apply primer and sand it down into the crack to seal it.
Step 5
Apply another coat of primer, this time covering the entire area you have prepped.
Step 6
Add the topcoat. The topcoat acts as a sealant to ensure the work lasts a long time and doesn't need repeating anytime soon.
Step 7
Move the scaffolding or ladder and start again, working on the next section of your columns.
Warning
Make sure scaffolding or the ladder is level and secure.
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