While you may think that getting whatever is readily available or cheapest is the best way to go for your project, this approach can lead to subpar results and potential issues down the line.
Thus, when acquiring materials for your upcoming fence painting project, it is important to ensure that you’re getting the right and appropriate materials.
So, if you’re looking for a guide to help you determine what you should get for your upcoming fence painting project, here’s something you should check out!
Here is a list of What To Get For A Fence Painting Project.
1. Materials For Surface Preparation
An essential process for every painting project is surface preparation – and thus, it should be an item on your list when shopping for paint materials.
Surface preparation is crucial for ensuring the paint adheres well and lasts longer, resulting in a clean and smooth finish.
More importantly, proper preparation lays the foundation for a durable paint job, significantly reducing the chances of common paint problems in the near future.
So, here’s a quick list of what you should get:
- Cleaning Supplies: To wash your fences to remove dirt, mildew, and/or old paint. A power washer is ideal for this task, but a garden hose with a high-pressure nozzle can work as well. For stubborn grime, use a scrub brush and a mixture of water and a mild detergent or a specialized fence cleaner.
- Sanding Tools: Sanding the fence smooths out rough spots and helps the paint adhere better. Use medium-grit sandpaper or an electric sander for larger areas. Pay special attention to peeling or blistering paint, as these areas need to be sanded down thoroughly.
- Drop Cloths and Painter’s Tape: Protect the surrounding area from paint splatters by laying down drop cloths. Use painter’s tape to cover hinges, latches, and any other hardware or areas you don’t want to paint.
2. Quality Paint
Of course, in a painting project, you will have to get paint – if that’s not already obvious!
In doing this, you will have to get paint specifically made for fence painting, to ensure its compatibility and longevity.
Here’s what you should consider:
- Type of Paint: Exterior latex paint is a popular choice due to its durability and ease of cleaning. For a more natural look, consider using a stain instead of paint. Oil-based paints and stains are also available and offer excellent durability, but they take longer to dry and require mineral spirits for cleanup.
- Color Selection: Choose a color that complements your home’s exterior. Light colors can make your yard feel larger, while dark colors can add a touch of sophistication. Always test a small area first to see how the color looks when dry.
3. Primer
When there is paint, there should also be primer.
In any painting project, paint and primer should always go hand in hand – because skipping the latter would just invite a lot of paint-related problems for your project.
For starters, primer will help your coat of paint adhere better to your fence material.
This is particularly important because fences are continually exposed to various external elements that can weaken the paint’s adhesion over time.
Thus, without primer application, your fences are bound to experience early signs of paint problems, such as paint peeling!
More than adhesion, primer will also provide an additional layer of protection from your fence material, ensuring its structural integrity for a longer time.
4. Painting Tools
To aid you in your paint application, you’ll have to acquire the right and appropriate painting tools for your project.
It is important to remember that having the right tools can make a huge difference in your painting process, potentially making the job easier and more efficient.
So, to ensure that, here’s what you might need:
- Paintbrushes: Invest in high-quality brushes designed for exterior painting. Use a large brush (4-6 inches) for the main surfaces and a smaller brush (2-3 inches) for edges and detailed areas.
- Paint Rollers: Rollers can cover large areas quickly. Use a roller with a medium to thick nap (3/8 to 1/2 inch) for rough or textured surfaces.
- Paint Sprayer: For the fastest application, consider using a paint sprayer. Sprayers provide even coverage and can reach tight spaces that brushes and rollers might miss. However, these might require more preparation and cleanup.
- Paint Tray and Liners: These are essential for holding and evenly distributing paint when using rollers.
We are Total Pro Painters. As a successful, family-run business we’ve been providing commercial and residential painting services in the Boston area since 2010.
For painting inquiries, you can contact us at 774-509-0345 or send us an email at info@totalpropainters.com.
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