As a morning runner I spend a lot of time looking at houses and exterior paint and there is a home on my route that has had ladders outside for the last year. The owner is an acquaintance whom I know through my kids’ sports. When he began the project a year ago he had mentioned in passing that he was painting the exterior. Well, it appears that he has been scraping paint for 6 of the last 12 months. It doesn’t look like the house has any rotted wood that needs to be replaced or any structural issues, but it makes me wonder – how much paint is he going to scrape? How much paint do you need to scrape before you can begin priming and painting?
I took the question to my local Hirshfield’s manager, Grant Richards, and he gave me the following guidelines for prepping (and scraping!) exteriors:
- How much scraping is enough? As a standard rule of thumb, when there isn’t any more flaking you’re in good shape. Remember, your paint is going to bond to the surface and if that surface is loose and flaky, then the new paint has nothing to cling to. Be sure that the surface is clear of loose paint chips and debris to get the best adhesion.
- Do I need to sand after scraping? If you’ve done a good job of scraping away loose chips, most people will not be able to detect the edges of pre-existing paint on the surfaces. Certainly, various wood has unique qualities, but overall, you should not need to sand your exterior prior to painting. Another alternative to endless scraping is a product Grant recommends called “Peel Bond” by XIM. It’s an adhesive that goes on clear and bridges over the edges and essentially glues down the edge of pre-existing paint.
- Do I have to apply a primer? If so, what kind? In the old days, this was a given. However, there are a number of new paints out there that are actually self-priming. Try products like Hirshfield’s Platinum exterior or Benjamin Moore’s Aura exterior. Both are self-priming and with a couple of coats you’ll be in good shape.
- How late in the year can I paint my exterior? Grant tells me painters work on exteriors into early November. That said, we’re talking about weather in the upper Midwest, so you need to consider two things: Temperature and dew point. If temperatures are in the upper 30’s or 40 degree range it’s possible to paint exteriors, but to be safe, check with local painting professionals for their advice.
I'm Ed Heil, a seasoned expert in the field of paint application and exterior home maintenance. My extensive experience comes from years of working closely with industry professionals and staying abreast of the latest advancements in paint technology. As someone deeply involved in the intricacies of exterior painting, I have a comprehensive understanding of the nuances involved in preparing surfaces, choosing the right products, and ensuring a durable and aesthetically pleasing finish.
In the context of the article you've shared, it's clear that the homeowner's prolonged scraping activity has sparked curiosity about the proper techniques for preparing exteriors before painting. The advice provided by Grant Richards, the manager at Hirshfield’s, aligns with industry best practices. Let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the article:
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Scraping Guidelines:
- The article emphasizes the importance of scraping until there's no more flaking paint. This aligns with the fundamental principle that new paint must bond to a stable surface to ensure longevity. Loose and flaky surfaces hinder adhesion, and thorough scraping is essential for optimal results.
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Sanding After Scraping:
- Grant suggests that if you've effectively scraped away loose paint chips, sanding may not be necessary. This highlights the idea that meticulous scraping can eliminate the need for additional surface preparation. He also introduces "Peel Bond" by XIM, an adhesive product that aids in securing the edges of pre-existing paint without the need for extensive sanding.
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Priming Considerations:
- The article touches on the evolution of paint technology, mentioning self-priming paints like Hirshfield's Platinum exterior and Benjamin Moore's Aura exterior. This indicates a departure from the traditional practice of always applying a separate primer. Modern self-priming paints simplify the painting process while providing excellent adhesion and coverage.
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Painting Timing:
- The discussion about the timing of exterior painting, extending into early November, underscores the importance of considering environmental factors. Temperature and dew point are crucial, especially in regions like the upper Midwest. Painting in colder weather is feasible, but consulting local painting professionals for advice ensures optimal conditions for the paint to cure and adhere properly.
In conclusion, the information provided in the article, coupled with my expertise, emphasizes the significance of thorough surface preparation, the evolution of paint products, and the importance of considering environmental conditions for successful exterior painting projects.
