How to Paint Hemlock Siding
Hemlock siding is not too difficult to paint as long as you know the proper preparation procedures to employ before you get started. Like any raw wood, hemlock siding must be conditioned for paint adhesion or, over time, any paint you apply will begin to blister, chip and peel. If you need to paint hemlock siding, there are a few preparation and application procedures that can help to promote a relatively flawless, long-lasting finish. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Pressure washer
- 5-gallon bucket
- Paint roller cover
- Roller frame
- 3 to 4-inch paintbrush
- Latex primer
- Razor blade
- Tubes of latex caulk
- Caulking gun
- Latex paint
Instructions
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1
Wash the hemlock siding thoroughly using a pressure washer. Ensure that all dirt and dust is removed before continuing. Allow the surface to dry before applying any paint or primer.
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2
Fill the 5-gallon bucket about half-way with latex primer. Slip the paint roller cover onto the roller frame.
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3
Apply latex primer to the hemlock siding using the roller. Roll vertically from top to bottom. Work from left to right being careful to smooth runs or drips as you apply.
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4
Apply primer to any areas that proved inaccessible to the roller. Allow the primer to dry for at least two hours.
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5
Cut the tip from the tube of latex caulk using the razor blade. Slide the tube into the caulking gun.
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6
Fill any cracks and holes with caulk using the caulking gun. Allow the caulk to dry for one full day before continuing.
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7
Apply paint to the hemlock siding in the same manner as you did the primer in Steps 2, 3 and 4.
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8
Allow the paint to dry for two hours. Apply another coat if necessary.
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Tips & Warnings
Hemlock siding is often flawed with cracks and knotholes. A fresh coat of paint tends to make these flaws stick out. Caulk is the best type of material for filling these cracks and holes. Never use spackle as it will crack over time.
Although you can apply caulk at any point before you paint, it's best to wait until after you've applied a coat of primer as the primer tends to expose holes and cracks to the eye, making them easier to find and fill.
Some hemlock siding has the texture and appearance of a log cabin. If you are painting hemlock siding like this, you'll need to alter your application technique for primer and paint. Roll vertically if the hemlock siding runs horizontally. Roll horizontally if the siding runs vertically.
Never attempt to paint hemlock siding without priming it first.
