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Summer Lake House Painting Tips for Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Posted on May 4, 2023

If you are looking for tips on painting your house this summer, look no further! This blog post will discuss everything you need to know about painting your home. We will discuss the tools you need to complete the job. We will also provide some tips on preparing your house for painting and avoiding common mistakes homeowners make. Let’s get started!

Assessing the Exterior of Your Lake House

Before you begin painting, it is important to assess the condition of your home’s exterior. Look for signs of damage, such as peeling paint or cracks in the siding. If these issues are present, they must be addressed before any new paint can be applied. Be sure also to inspect surrounding plants and trees, as any overgrowth should be removed before beginning.

Choosing the Right Paint

When selecting the right paint for your house, several important factors must be considered. Make sure you choose a paint specially formulated for outdoor use that can stand up to the elements. You should also know any aesthetic preferences or neighborhood regulations that may influence your color choice.

Tools and Materials You Will Need

You must gather the right tools and materials for a successful exterior painting project. For this job, you should have the following:

  • Drop cloths
  • Painting tape
  • Paint brushes and rollers
  • Paint Tray liners or plastic bags for paint trays
  • Primer for unpainted surfaces
  • Paint, preferably exterior-grade latex paint

DIY vs Professional Painting

If you don’t feel comfortable tackling the project on your own, there are professional painting services that can help. They will have the experience and expertise to do the job quickly and effectively. However, if you decide to go at it alone, plan out each process stage and follow best practices for exterior painting.

Steps to Painting Your Milwaukee Summer Lake House

  1. Preparation: Proper preparation is key to a successful painting project. This includes cleaning the surface, repairing cracks or holes, and sanding rough patches on wood surfaces. Make sure you wear protective gear such as goggles and gloves while doing this work.
  2. Priming: Use a quality exterior primer to cover any exposed wood surfaces once your surface is clean and prepped.
  3. Painting: After priming, you can start painting with an exterior paint of your choice. Use a roller for large areas and brushes for more detailed work around window sills or trim pieces. Ensure you take proper safety precautions, such as wearing a respirator mask while working with hazardous chemicals in the paint. Additionally, if possible, try to work when there’s little wind, so the fumes don’t blow away too quickly and affect neighbors or wildlife nearby.
  4. Cleanup: After the painting is complete, clean up properly. This means safely and responsibly disposing of any hazardous materials, such as paint cans or brushes.
  5. Maintenance: To keep your Lake House looking beautiful for years to come, regularly inspect it for any damage from weather or other sources. If you find any cracks that need patching, use a high-quality exterior caulking product and carefully follow the instructions for proper application.

Additionally, check periodically for any loose trim pieces or patches of paint that may have peeled off due to weathering – these should always be re-painted with high-quality exterior paint. Finally, clean your Lake House exterior every few months to keep it looking its best.

Painting Techniques and Tips:

When it comes to painting your Lake House’s exterior, a few techniques can help ensure you get long-lasting results. Start by pressure washing the entire area before you begin, then use an oil-based primer paint for maximum adhesion and durability. After that, apply two coats of quality paint – either latex or acrylic – while ensuring that the entire area is painted evenly. When selecting colors, opt for light shades that won’t absorb too much heat from the sun and be sure to add a sealant for extra protection. Lastly, pay attention to any small details, such as windows and trim, as these can make a big difference in the overall look.

Common Mistakes:

  1. Not pressure washing before painting – Pressure washing is necessary to remove dirt, dust and other debris that can cause the paint not to stick properly.
  2. Not using a primer coat – A primer coat ensures maximum adhesion of your paint and helps ensure long-lasting results.
  3. Skimping out on quality paint – Quality paints are designed for better coverage and smoother finish, so always invest in good quality paints from reputable brands.
  4. Going too dark with color selection – Darker colors tend to absorb more heat from the sun, leading to faster fading and higher cooling costs due to added insulation needed for exterior walls with darker shades of paint.
  5. Not sealing after painting – Sealing your newly painted house is essential to keep moisture and dirt out, which can damage the paint over time.
  6. Not protecting non-paintable surfaces – Protecting non-paintable surfaces such as windows, doors, and gutters from paint splatter will help ensure a neat and even finish for your entire project.
  7. Ignoring surface preparation – Make sure to clean all dirt and debris from your house’s surface before applying paint to get the best possible results.
  8. Poor ventilation during painting – Proper ventilation is essential when painting indoors to avoid breathing in harmful fumes that certain paints can release into the air.
  9. Not using drop cloths or plastic sheeting – Using drop cloths or plastic sheeting to protect surrounding areas from paint splatter is an important step in ensuring a successful painting project.
  10. Not using the correct tools and materials – Always use high-quality brushes, rollers, and other painting supplies recommended by manufacturers for the type of paint you are using.

Conclusion

When painting your summer lake house, having the right tools and materials, proper ventilation, and using drop cloths or plastic sheeting can go a long way toward ensuring a successful painting project. Following these simple tips will help ensure you get the best results possible while protecting yourself from any potential hazards.

 

Check out our comprehensive painting guide here!