What To Get For Your Exterior Painting Project in Boston, MA

Exterior painting is a significant project that can instantly transform the overall appearance and appeal of your home.

However, this project is certainly not small-scale, and it involves a lot of materials and tools – which can certainly confuse the average homeowner!

But fret not, we’ve whipped up a guide to help you as you gather the materials for your upcoming painting project.

Here’s What To Get For Your Exterior Painting Project.

1. Paint

One of the first things you will have to get for your upcoming exterior painting project is – from the name itself – paint!

It is important to remember that every painting project will require a specific paint specially formulated for the type of project you’re about to do.

And in painting your exterior, it is important that you also get paint formulated specifically for exterior painting.

Getting exterior paint for your project is important since your exterior is a surface that is constantly exposed to a lot of external factors – dust, dirt, fluctuating weather, animals, or children getting into rough play – and you’d want a coat of paint that can withstand all that!

As a recommendation, acrylic latex paints are popular for exterior surfaces due to their flexibility and resistance to fading and mildew.

For areas exposed to harsh weather, consider elastomeric coatings that offer exceptional waterproofing and durability.

If you’re having a hard time shopping for paint all on your own, fret not – your local paint professional will be happy to assist you!

2. Primer

Always remember that when there is paint, there should also be primer – these two always go hand in hand!

Primer is essential to every painting project, and most especially for your upcoming exterior painting project.

This is because primer will provide your exterior with an extra coat of protection against external elements, to ensure its structural integrity for the years to come.

Primer will also provide better adhesion for your fresh coat of paint, and ensure a brighter and more vivid color for your paint – decreasing the chances for common paint problems such as peeling and fading.

So, in shopping for paint materials, don’t forget to add a can or two of primer to your cart!

3. Painting Tools and Equipment

Of course, to help you apply your paint, you will need the appropriate painting tools and equipment.

When purchasing tools and equipment for your painting project, it’s essential to invest in high-quality items.

While it is tempting to opt for cheap options, you must remember that cheap tools are made of low-quality materials – which also allowed for their low cost – and thus, will inevitably render poor-quality results.

Here’s a quick list of what you’ll need:

• Brushes and Rollers: Brushes with natural bristles are best for oil-based paints, while synthetic bristles work well with latex paints. Rollers should be chosen based on the texture of your exterior walls; smoother surfaces require a roller with a shorter nap.
• Paint Sprayer: For large or difficult-to-reach areas, a paint sprayer can significantly speed up the process. It provides an even coat and can penetrate nooks and crannies more effectively than brushes or rollers.
• Ladders and Scaffolding: Ensure you have sturdy ladders or scaffolding that can reach the highest points of your building safely.
• Drop Cloths and Tape: Protect your landscaping and hardscaping by laying down drop cloths. Use painter’s tape to protect windows, doors, and trim from splatters.

4. Surface Preparation Supplies

Before proceeding with your painting process, undergoing proper surface preparation is crucial.

Here’s what you’ll need for this process:

1. Power Washer: A power washer can clean off dirt, grime, and peeling paint much faster than manual scrubbing.
2. Brush and Detergent: If you do not have access to a power washer, you can also opt for a simple brush and a detergent. Just make sure that you scrub your exterior really nice and clean!
3. Scrapers and Sandpaper: After washing, you may need to scrape off peeling or loose paint. Sandpaper or a sanding block will help smooth out the surface and ensure that your new paint adheres well.
4. Caulk and Caulking Gun: Seal any gaps around windows, doors, and joints with a good quality caulk to prevent moisture intrusion and provide a neat, finished look.

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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