Home Improvement Tips – Selecting the Right Exterior Paint

In order to save money, more and more people these days are choosing to tackle home improvement projects themselves rather than pay a professional to do it. One thing that you might want to do to give your house the updated look that it needs is change the color of it. If you are planning on repainting the outside of your house, it is important to know what kind of paint and primer to get. This will depend on what the surface you will be painting is made out of. For example, it is not always necessary to use primer – it is only called for when you are painting over a porous surface such as wood or over another layer of paint that has a different base than the one you are using. Here are some painting tips for different types of siding materials.

1. Bare wood. If your house has bare wood siding, you will need to use a primer with a latex or oil base before painting. The type of primer should be consistent with the paint you intend to use as well as what kind of wood you are painting on. When you are painting over wood, you need to take into account what effects mold and mildew may have on your paint job over time. Because fungus tends to thrive on the minerals found in some types of paint, it is important to always use mildew-resistant paint. For the best level of protection, look for varieties that also include fungicides.

2. Painted wood. If the existing layer of paint is in a good condition and has the same base as the new layer, then you may not need to use a primer first. If, however, the old paint has fallen into disrepair or is not compatible with the new paint, then you will want to prime the surface before painting. Consider using paints with shiny finishes, as these are easier to maintain than their matte counterparts.

3. Stucco or concrete. If the sides of your house are made out of stucco or concrete, then you will need to prime the surface before painting. Choose acrylic latex paint that is intended for masonry work. You should also use two coats of paint on each wall.

4. Vinyl siding. If you have vinyl exterior walls, then you do not need to prime them before painting. However, it is important to check for and remove any mold, mildew, and dirt before starting. Use spray versions of acrylic latex. It does not make much of a difference whether they have a satin or flat finish, but choose a color that is at least as light as original color of house to avoid heat from being absorbed. This can result in warped siding.

5. Metal. If your house is made out of a matallic material like aluminum, then you do not need to prime it. If it is made out of steel, however, in order to prevent corrosion, you will want to use two coats of primer (with a latex or oil base).

Consider sears windows, siding, and paint when shopping for home improvement materials. For more information, visit www.homeproimprovement.com.