FAQ

How often should I paint my house exterior?

• It mostly depends on the prep work done, condition of the home, quality of the product used, and the exposure to elements. Generally, every 7-10 years.

What are the best paint colors for resale value?

• Normally neutral tones like beige, grey, and lighter blues are recommended for broader appeal.  Things change all the time though. 

How do I prepare my walls for painting?

• Clean the surfaces, repair any damage, clear off excess material, apply primer, then paint with an even overlap and ending in the same direction.

Can I paint over wallpaper, or should I remove it first?

• Not the best idea - it's better to remove it for a smoother, longer lasting finish. Some wallpapers can be painted over, just depends how adhered it is.

What type of paint is best for different surfaces?

• More often than not, you'll see latex being used.  Oil-based products are used, but not as commonly. It depends on what you want painted.

How long does it take for paint to dry and cure?

• Temperature dependent, but with the SW products we use, paint can be dried quickly, like less than an hour. Wait a few hours before re-applying though.

• To cure, it depends on the product.  If you can press your finger nail into it, and the paint indents, the paint hasn't cured.  Some paints take up to 30 days.

Should I hire professionals or attempt a DIY paint job?

• This depends on the size of the project, the time you have available, and your experience.  Using a professional can ensure quality and peace of mind.

What is the average cost of hiring a professional painter?

• It depends on the size of the project, the products being used, and the amount of work required to do the job. Pricing can't be done by the square foot accurately, because there are so many different factors that go into a paint job.  A home requiring a lot more prep work will cost more than one not needing any at all.  A home upgrading all their paint to the highest level available will cost more than one who didn't upgrade their paint.  A home making a dramatic color change will cost more than one doing a color match.  The easiest way to get an accurate price is to have us look at it and walk you through it.

How can I prevent and deal with paint peeling or chipping?

• Commit to proper surface preparation based on what the problem came from. Then fix that problem so your paint doesn't fail in the future. You'll want to remove any dead paint, make sure it's dry before any more work gets done to it, then prime it until no raw wood is showing.  Once the primer is dry, apply the correct paint to the surface.

Do I need to prime before painting, and when is it necessary?

• Most of the time, yes.  Paint can act as a natural primer, which is why you don't need to fully prime a house that's being repainted.  However, priming can be a useful tool.  If there is a paint failure present, you'll want to fix it then apply primer before re-painting it.  If material is raw, it's a good idea to apply primer before painting it.  If you're making a dramatic change on your paint colors, like painting a previously white home black, you'll want to use primer tinted to black or dark grey.  It will enhance adhesion and coverage, and it's more cost-effective.  Same exact situation with going from a dark home to white or a lighter color.  It makes more sense to shoot primer tinted to the color before using the actual paint.  You'll save money on the transformation, you'll get extra coverage, and likely more longevity out of the paint job.

Can I paint over a glossy surface?

• Yes, if you use the same glossy paint.  Otherwise, sand it down, use a bonding primer, then repaint it.

What is the difference between interior and exterior paint?

• Exterior paint is designed to withstand the weather and provide protection against UV rays.  Interior paint is designed to be easily cleaned and durable.  Do not use interior paint for an exterior painting project.

How do I choose the right sheen for paint?

• Your choice. What look are you going for? What function does the paint need to serve? Flat paint will provide a non-reflective finish, satin will provide a subtle shine, and semi-gloss or gloss will provide durability and easier cleaning.

What's the best time of year to paint the exterior?

• In Idaho, the exterior painting season is usually sometime in March until some time in October.  It can fluctuate based on temperature. Interior can be painted basically any time of the year.  Sometimes we'll do them during summer when it's way too hot to be working on a house outdoors.

Can I paint in humid conditions?

• High humidity can affect drying time and paint adhesion, so it's best to paint in moderate humidity.

How do I remove mold or mildew before painting?

• Clean the affected areas with a mixture of bleach and water, or Simple Green, then prime with a mildew-resistant primer.

Is it necessary to tape before painting?

• If you don't have a steady hand, taping edges and trim helps achieve clean lines, especially when painting different colors or avoiding splatter. Otherwise it's usually just a material that's used with paper or plastic.

Can I paint over lead-based paint?

• It's safest to encapsulate or remove lead-based paint, especially in homes with children. There's a special process for this.

What's the shelf life of paint?

• Properly stored paint can last 2-10 years, but check for signs of spoilage like separation or a foul smell. Ensure it's in a controlled environment maintaining a constant temperature, and it's not in direct contact with the ground.  During winter, if left on the ground in a shed or garage, the paint can freeze from the ground up, and if it's already separated, good luck getting it to mix back together.  I recommend it stay on a shelf indoors.

How do I fix paint drips or mistakes?

• We always have wet rags with us to quickly wipe it up or off the wall. If you're using a different color, it's best to wait until you're using the only wet paint on the wall or area, so you can wipe it up and not worry about a bigger mess to correct. Otherwise, sand it, prime it, touch it up. 

Can I paint over a dark color with a lighter one?

• Yes, but it will require extra coats. Use a tinted primer to help with coverage.

What's the purpose of painter's tape, and how do I use it effectively?

• Painter's tape protects areas from accidental paint application. Apply it carefully, and remove it before the paint fully dries.

How can I estimate the amount of paint needed for a project?

• Measure the walls' height and multiply by the total length, then subtract openings. One gallon typically covers around 250 square feet.

Can I paint over wallpaper glue residue?

• It's recommended to remove the glue residue for a smooth finish. Clean thoroughly and possibly sand before painting.

Is there a difference between water-based and oil-based paints?

• Yes, water-based (latex) paints are easier to clean and dry faster, while oil-based paints provide a more durable finish. Oil-based products must be used in certain situations as well, just depends on what you're trying to cover.

How do I handle lead paint safely during renovations?

• Follow lead-safe practices, use personal protective equipment (PPE), and consider professional lead abatement for significant work. 

What's the ideal temperature range for painting indoors?

• Around 60-75°F (15-24°C) provides optimal conditions for paint application and drying. We'll usually have a fan or two with us to increase circulation too.

How long should I wait to apply a second coat of paint?

• Wait for the first coat to dry completely, usually within a few hours, before applying the second coat. Your paint can should also tell you how long to wait too.

Can I paint vinyl siding, and what type of paint is suitable?

• Yes, use a high-quality acrylic latex paint for vinyl siding, and ensure the surface is clean and primed. You'll need to also make sure your paint is a vinyl-safe formula. Definitely make sure that what you want done can be done before committing to it.

What's the best way to clean paintbrushes and rollers?

• Clean immediately after use with water for latex paint, or with appropriate solvents for oil-based paint. They make effective tools that will help clean them.

questions: aluminum siding painting