Preparing your home for painting involves more than just moving furniture or laying down drop sheets. The first and most crucial step is washing the exterior of your home. By properly washing the surfaces before painting, you can ensure a longer-lasting and better-looking paint job. Below, we explain why washing your home is essential and how to do it correctly to achieve the best results.
Why Wash Your Home Before Painting?
You might assume that applying fresh paint is enough to rejuvenate your home’s exterior. While a new coat of paint can dramatically improve the look of your home, skipping the washing step can lead to serious issues down the line. Dirt, grime, and debris trapped beneath the paint will weaken its bond to the surface, causing peeling and chipping far sooner than expected.
Consider this: a paint job on an unwashed surface might last only 2-3 years, whereas a properly cleaned exterior can extend the lifespan of your paint to up to 7 years. Washing your home ensures that the paint adheres securely, saving you time, money, and frustration in the long run.
How to Wash Your Home Before Painting
Knowing the importance of washing your home is just the beginning. To do the job right, you need to use the correct method. Below are the two most effective approaches for cleaning your home’s exterior before painting.
1. High-Pressure Power Washing
High-pressure power washing is an effective way to remove large debris, dirt, and grime from your home’s exterior. However, it’s essential to exercise caution to avoid causing damage, especially on delicate surfaces like vinyl siding.
Key Tips for Power Washing:
Use a wide tip, such as a 25-degree or 15-degree fan tip, to distribute the pressure evenly.
Avoid zero-degree tips, as their concentrated spray can damage siding and other surfaces.
Focus on every area you plan to paint to ensure no spots are missed. Neglecting even a small section can result in uneven paint application.
Power washing requires skill and experience to be done safely and effectively. For the best results, trust the professionals at Wash Rite Newcastle. Request a fast quote today through our online form.
2. Soft Washing or Low-Pressure Solution Application
Soft washing involves using a low-pressure application of a cleaning solution, making it ideal for surfaces that could be damaged by high pressure. This method is particularly effective at removing mold, mildew, and other organic stains.
Steps for Soft Washing:
Use a “soaper” tip on your pressure washer or a dedicated soft wash system to apply the cleaning solution.
Opt for a solution containing Sodium Hypochlorite for more effective cleaning.
Allow the solution to sit for up to 10 minutes, depending on sunlight and temperature. In warm, sunny conditions, rinse sooner to prevent streaks or stains.
Soft washing ensures a thorough clean while protecting your home’s exterior from potential damage. For expert soft washing services, contact Wash Rite Newcastle.
Allowing Your Home to Dry
After washing, it’s essential to let your home dry completely before painting. The drying time depends on the type of siding:
Wood siding: Requires up to 24 hours to dry thoroughly.
Vinyl siding: Dries much faster, often within a few hours.
Ensure all sides of your home are completely dry before applying paint to achieve a smooth and even finish.
Ready to Paint
Properly washing your home is the foundation of a successful painting project. By investing in this crucial step, you’ll achieve a paint job that not only looks great but also stands the test of time.
At Wash Rite Newcastle, we specialize in exterior cleaning services that prepare your home for painting and more. Contact us today for professional and reliable house washing solutions to kick-start your painting project.
