If you’re finally getting round to that exterior paint job, here are some techniques to make it go a little more smoothly.
Summer’s a great time to get that outdoor painting done. Only problem is, the hot summer sun can be hard on fresh paint. So work behind the sun. Start with the north side of the house in the morning, and follow the sun around into the afternoon.
Don’t paint too early in the day while the dew’s still hanging around or too late in the day if there’s a good chance of dew that night. And if rain’s threatening, put the paint job off till tomorrow.
Try and choose a day that’s not too windy, so you don’t have dust and debris blowing up against your new paint.
Start from the top and work down, and paint with the grain — horizontally on lap siding and vertically on board and batten.
Use an empty paint can as a working can to take up the ladder with you. Mix the paint well before pouring in this can, and only fill it about 1/3 full. A sturdy metal clip, such as those used to connect chains is handy. Hook it around the paint can’s handle, then lock it over a rung of the ladder.
Before you move the ladder, look closely at the area you’ve just painted to find any missed spots. Touch them up now, before the paint dries, for best results.
When you cover up flowers and shrubs, use white drop cloths if possible. Sheets of plastic will protect them from paint, but if the sun sits on them for any length of time, it will fry your plants.