If you are thinking about painting the exterior of your home, you need to do the proper prep work first to get outstanding results. If you cut corners when preparing the exterior of your home for a new paint job, the results will not be what you want, and they are not going to be long-lasting. 

Check Caulking and Drip Edge Around Windows and Doors

First, you are going to want to check around your windows and doors. You will want to ensure that all of the caulking is in place around your windows and doors. If the caulking is getting old or wearing off, you will want to remove the old caulking and apply new caulking. You should do this before you paint for the most visually appealing results. 

You are also going to want to check on the drip edge flashing. If that is old or falling apart, replace it. 

Power Wash the Exterior

Second, you are going to want to power wash the exterior of your home. Power washing is the most effective way to remove all the dirt and grime that can build up on the exterior of your home over time. For the best results, you want to paint over a clean surface. 

Sand Down Imperfections

Third, you are going to want to sand down any imperfection on the outside of your home. Bumpy and damaged surfaces will not look better with a new coat of paint on them; they are just going to look worse.

If you have any chipped paint or areas looking harsh, put your sander to smooth them down. Then, rinse away the dust created by the sanding process to keep the area as clean as possible. 

Fix Any Damage

Fourth, you are going to want to fix any damage to the outside of your home. If you have any cracked or damaged siding, you will want to replace that before you paint. 

Clear the Space

Fifth, you are going to want to have an accessible work area. Remove all furniture and items from around your home so that you have more space to work. You don't want to trip over a lawn chair or a kid's toy when you are trying to paint. 

Protect Your Landscaping

Finally, on the day that you paint, get out some plastic sheeting, and use it to protect your landscaping. Just throw the sheeting over the landscaping to protect it from paint drops, and be sure to remove the sheeting at the end of the day. 

If you don't feel up to doing all the necessary work to prepare the exterior of your home for new paint, you can hire an exterior painting contractor to handle the work for you. They will do all the prep work, and then they will paint the exterior of your home, leaving you with stunning results that will last for years to come.