Painting the exterior of your house is a significant home improvement project. It requires careful planning, time, and effort to achieve the desired results. While some homeowners may choose to take on the task themselves, hiring a professional exterior house painter can save you valuable time and ensure a high-quality finish.
However, you must learn how to hire an exterior house painter to have a clear understanding of their role and what they can deliver. This will help you set the right expectations and ensure a successful painting project. In this article, we will discuss in detail what to expect from an exterior house painter and provide tips on how to hire the right one for your needs.
What Does an Exterior House Painter Do?
Before diving into what to expect from an exterior house painter, it’s crucial to understand their primary responsibilities. Professional exterior house painters are skilled tradesmen who specialize in painting the outside of residential and commercial buildings.
If you’re wondering how to hire an exterior house painter and what they do, their work typically involves the following:
1. Cleaning and Preparing the Surface
A thorough cleaning of the exterior surface is done to remove dirt, mildew, and any loose paint. The painter will then inspect the surface for any damage and make necessary repairs, such as filling cracks and sanding rough areas.
2. Choosing the Right Materials
An exterior house painter is knowledgeable about different paint types and finishes. They can help you select the appropriate materials that can withstand the elements and enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home.
3. Protecting the Surrounding Areas
Before starting the painting process, the painter will take measures to protect the surrounding areas, such as covering plants, furniture, and other outdoor fixtures, to prevent any damage.
4. Applying the Paint
This is the main task of the painter – they will apply the paint using various techniques, including brushing, rolling, and spraying, depending on the surface and the desired finish.
Apart from the actual painting, an exterior house painter is responsible for maintaining a clean and tidy work area. This includes properly disposing of paint cans and other materials after the job is completed.
What to Expect From an Exterior House Painter
When learning how to hire an exterior house painter, you’re not just getting someone to apply paint to your home. You’re investing in their expertise, experience, and attention to detail. To give you a clearer picture of what lies ahead, here are some common things you can expect from a professional in this field:
1. Initial Assessment and Cost Estimate
The first step in the painting process is the initial assessment, where the painter will evaluate the condition of your home’s exterior. This includes checking for any structural damage, peeling or chipped paint, and other issues that may need to be addressed before painting can begin.
During this phase, the painter will also discuss your color preferences and any specific requirements you have. Based on the assessment, the painter will provide you with a cost estimate outlining the expected expenses for materials, labor, and other necessary factors.
It’s important to note that while cost is a significant consideration, it should not be the sole determining factor in your decision-making process. Professional exterior house painters may charge higher rates, but their expertise often translates into quality work and long-term savings.
2. Preparation
Before the actual painting can commence, your chosen painter will prepare the exterior of your house. This typically involves cleaning the surfaces to remove dirt, mildew, and any loose or flaking paint. In some cases, power washing may be necessary to achieve a clean and smooth foundation for the new paint.
Additionally, the painter will protect the surrounding areas, such as windows, landscaping, and outdoor furniture, from paint splatters or damage. They may use drop cloths, plastic sheets, or other coverings to safeguard these elements during the painting process. Thorough preparation is a hallmark of a professional exterior house painter as it sets the stage for a well-executed job.
3. Surface Repair and Priming
During the preparation stage, the painter will also identify and address any surface imperfections or damage, such as cracks, holes, or rotten wood. Repairing these issues is crucial for achieving a seamless and durable paint finish. Depending on the extent of the damage, the painter may fill the cracks and holes, replace damaged siding, or perform other necessary repairs.
Once the repairs are complete, the next step is priming. Applying a coat of primer is essential for two reasons: it helps the paint adhere better to the surface, ensuring improved longevity, and it can also act as a sealant, preventing moisture from penetrating the underlying material.
However, there are instances when priming may not be necessary, such as when the surface is in good condition or when using certain types of paint, like self-priming or paint-and-primer-in-one products.
4. Painting and Cleanup
After the preparation work is finished, the painter will start the main event – the painting process. They will use the agreed-upon color and type of paint, carefully applying it to the exterior surfaces of your home. A professional exterior house painter will typically employ techniques that ensure an even and smooth coat of paint, such as using brushes, rollers, or sprayers, depending on the specific requirements of the job.
During the painting phase, it’s important to note that some painters may opt for multiple coats, depending on the desired finish and the type of paint being used. They will also keep you updated on the progress, addressing any concerns or questions you may have along the way.
Once the painting is complete, the painter will conduct a thorough cleanup, removing any paint materials and equipment from your property. They will also take the time to inspect the work, ensuring that everything meets the required standards. Attention to detail during this stage is a mark of a professional exterior house painter, as they strive to leave your home looking its best, free from any paint smudges or drips.
5. Final Inspection and Touch-ups
Before considering the job done, the painter will perform a final inspection of the painted surfaces. This is to catch any missed spots, uneven coverage, or other issues that may require touch-ups. If such areas are found, the painter will promptly address them, ensuring that the final result meets your expectations.
6. Post-Painting Cleanliness
Aside from inspecting for any touch-ups, a professional exterior house painter will also take care of the post-painting cleanliness. They will be responsible for returning any moved furniture or decorations to their original places, leaving you with a beautifully painted home and no additional tasks to worry about.
7. Longevity and Maintenance Guidance
Lastly, you can expect a professional exterior house painter to guide you on how to maintain the quality of the paint and the overall exterior of your home. They may offer recommendations on cleaning schedules, as well as tips for addressing common issues like fading or peeling. Taking care of your newly painted exterior is essential for maximizing its longevity and keeping your home looking fresh for years to come.
Questions to Ask an Exterior House Painter
Now that you know what to expect from an exterior house painter, it’s time to equip yourself with the right questions to find the best professional for your project. Here are three questions to ask an exterior house painter during the selection process:
1. Do you have insurance?
It’s important to work with a painter who has insurance coverage, specifically general liability and workers’ compensation. General liability insurance protects you from any potential damage to your property during the painting process.
At the same time, workers’ compensation covers the painter in case of an accident or injury while working on your premises. Asking this question upfront can save you from potential financial liabilities.
2. Can you provide references?
As with any service provider, it’s wise to seek references from past clients. This allows you to gauge the quality of their work and their level of professionalism. When contacting the references, consider asking about the painter’s timeliness, communication, and ability to address any concerns or issues that arose during the project.
3. What is your expected timeline for the project?
This is one of the most important questions to ask an exterior house painter when project planning. It helps you set appropriate expectations and coordinate other tasks, such as any necessary arrangements for alternative accommodation if the work involves the entire exterior of your home. A professional exterior house painter will be able to provide you with a clear and realistic timeframe based on the scope of work and their availability.
Key Takeaway
When starting a renovation project, it’s essential to have a clear vision of what to expect from an exterior house painter. You can expect a comprehensive service that extends beyond applying paint. Their expertise includes surface preparation, repair, and material selection, ensuring a durable and aesthetically pleasing result.
Attention to detail, clear communication, and post-project support are hallmarks of their work. Understanding this scope of services helps in making informed decisions and setting realistic expectations for the quality and longevity of the paint job.
Elevate Your Home Exterior With Jeff Schultz Painting
Transform your home’s exterior with the trusted expertise of the leading painters in Sarasota, FL— Jeff Schultz Painting! Experience unparalleled quality and professionalism in every brushstroke. Contact us now for a consultation and see the difference true craftsmanship can make!
