The saying goes that you never get a second chance to make a first impression. This is so true for how your home presents itself to passersby and your guests.
Does your home convey a theme of “friendly and inviting”, or does it look like the Munster’s home at 1313 Mockingbird Lane?
Before you pick up a paintbrush and open a can of paint, take a look at these tips for your home improvement project. (Most of the time is spent planning and preparing.)
Consider the visual flow between your home’s exterior and the surrounding landscape. Harmonize colors with natural elements like gardens, trees, or stone pathways. Small details, such as coordinating your front door color with window shutters, can add a touch of sophistication. Lastly, evaluate your budget and timeline realistically. Quality paints and professional services might come with a higher price tag, but they ensure a lasting, impeccable finish.
Remember, your home’s exterior speaks volumes about your personality and attention to detail. With meticulous planning and thoughtful execution, you can transform your home into a welcoming haven that leaves a lasting impression on everyone who passes by or steps through your door.
- Choose your color scheme to reflect your tastes, but also appeal to potential buyers in 10 or 20 years. Most people start with a neutral color like beige, off-white, or gray and an accent color for the trim (usually another neutral like white or black, but you might be able to get away with red or blue).
- Clear room for the painters (which could be you and very helpful friends) to access the home. Cut tree branches back from the roof and sides. Create a gap of 8 to 12 inches between a bush and the property. (Now’s a good time to level the hedge so that prowlers can’t hide behind it.)
- Check with your home owners association if there are any particular color choices, or if you need to let them know you are going to paint the exterior. It’s essential to adhere to these guidelines to avoid potential fines or conflicts with neighbors. Additionally, notifying the HOA about your plans to paint the exterior demonstrates good communication and respect for community rules. They might provide you with a list of pre-approved colors or offer valuable insights that align with the overall aesthetic of the neighborhood.
- Was your home built before 1978? Have the paint tested for lead which was a very common ingredient back then.
- Wash the surfaces either with soap or a pressure wash. Washing the surfaces not only removes dirt, dust, and mildew but also provides a clean canvas for the paint to adhere to effectively. Pay attention to areas prone to mold and algae growth, such as shaded spots or surfaces near plants.
- Replace broken or rotting wood before you begin painting. Sealing in wood that is breaking down is only asking for trouble in a year or two. Indeed, addressing any structural issues before commencing the painting process is a crucial step that should not be overlooked. Before you even think about dipping your brush into the paint, carefully inspect your home’s exterior for any signs of deterioration. Replace any broken or rotting wood promptly.
- Set up drop cloths to protect shrubbery and metal.
- Cover windows with plastic sheeting. Blue painter’s tape is your friend when tackling this project. When embarking on your exterior painting project, protecting your windows is paramount to avoid accidental splatters and drips. Covering your windows with plastic sheeting provides a reliable barrier against stray paint, ensuring your glass surfaces remain crystal clear.
The burning question is: How long will it really take to paint my house? A typical estimate is between 6 or 7 days for an average-sized home with a crew of 3 experienced people.
Covering your windows with plastic sheeting provides a reliable barrier against stray paint, ensuring your glass surfaces remain crystal clear. Blue painter’s tape is an invaluable tool in this process, as it adheres securely to various surfaces without leaving a sticky residue behind.
Here at Brush Masters we pride ourselves in taking less time all while being punctual, meticulous, and spotless. If you are anywhere near New Jersey, hit us up for a quote for your home. Our commitment to punctuality, attention to detail, and cleanliness sets us apart. If you reside in New Jersey or its vicinity and are considering giving your home a fresh, vibrant look, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for a quote.
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