Painting Key Features of Home Exterior Provides Affordable Remodeling Option
Most of the time and cost of repainting is spent on the walls. Yet, on most homes, the walls are basically a canvas against which the more interesting architectural elements are showcased: the doors, shutters, accents and trim. That is where the eye goes when looking at a home. It also is where you may want to invest your precious remodeling dollars, assuming that your whole house isn't screaming for a paint job.
Look at your own home from the across the street. Identify the elements that are most interesting-maybe you have an unusual front door or entryway, or maybe some of the ‘fretwork' or trim is especially ornate. Painting those areas will provide the most bang for your buck in terms of aesthetics.
To focus more attention on certain architectural elements, you might want to paint them in a bold color or one that contrasts with your walls. On the other hand, painting your doors, accents and trim in a tint or shade that is muted or complementary to your walls may give your home a more subtle, dignified look. Either way, a fresh coat of paint on just a few areas will add plenty of style for a modest investment.
Rule #1: Take time to properly prepare the surface.
Make sure the surface is free of dirt and "chalk." Remove any loose, flaking or peeling paint by scraping, sanding or wire-brushing. Finally, brush off the dust and get ready to paint.
Rule #2: Use top quality exterior paint. For almost all exterior paint projects, the best paint to use is a top quality 100% acrylic latex paint. This type of paint has superior adhesion, so it will grip onto the surface tenaciously-that, in turn, will help prevent blistering, flaking and peeling in the future. And since 100% acrylic latex paint is also flexible, it will help prevent paint failures in a second way-by expanding and contracting with the surface below when outside temperatures rise and fall.
Rule #3: Use high quality brushes and tools. Painting with high quality tools will make it easier to apply a thicker, more uniform coat of paint to produce a better-looking paint job.
Rule #4: Paint in the right weather conditions. Doing your painting in moderate conditions will help the paint form a tough, protective film that will keep your architectural elements looking freshly painted for years to come. Ideally, you should paint on a day that is not too windy, when the temperature is between 70 and 85 degrees.
Today's challenging economy demands that homeowners be smart and resourceful when it comes to remodeling. If you want to give your home a fresh new look without blowing your budget, think about doing selective painting of your home's special features. It's a great way to go.
(Reblogged from Sea Coast Exclusive Properties)
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