Painting Wood Siding Prep

Proper painting preparation includes.

Painting wood siding prep.

If the unfinished wood was exposed more than 3 to 4 weeks lightly sand the surface to remove the thin layer of degraded wood before applying paint. Before weathered wood can be painted it will require extensive prep work to ensure that the paint stays on for more than just a couple of years. Use a stiff bristled brushed to scrub away anything that may resist coming off. Sunlight degrades the unfinished wood surface thus it will never hold paint as well as fresh wood.

Adjust the pressure on the power washer to light and gently knock off any dirt or debris that may be attached to the surface of the wood siding. This is where water seeps into cracks and soaks into the wood causing the paint to peel. Use an old screwdriver or similar tool to scrape out any failed caulk from joints and cracks. Unfinished siding exposed to several weeks of sunlight before painting needs to be sanded.

Without good preparation all of the effort and expense that you invest in painting may be diminished by less than stellar results and a job that may not last. Use a long handled scrubber brush and a mild detergent to gently scrub away accumulated dirt grime mold and other residue. Prepare the surface with old buildings such as my 130 year old barn water blasting the loose paint is not a recommended practice. Power wash the siding.

Cleaning the siding. Give the surface a full day to dry before moving on. Clean the wood surface thoroughly. Applying a fresh coat of paint every few years will keep your home looking beautiful.

Paint tends to peel or flake near joints between dissimilar materials think siding and trim window frames and glass etc.