Peninsula Starlight Painting - Exterior Repaint Process

We will begin with choose the perfect color for your project. Refer to the FAQ SECTION for more information on colors. Next we will set a start date and you will receive a email with instructions if there is anything to be done on your end.

The Essential First Step Before Painting

Preparing the exterior of your home for a fresh coat of paint begins with pressure washing, a critical step that ensures a clean, smooth surface for the paint to adhere to. Here’s why it’s essential and how to do it right:

1. Why Pressure Wash?
   
   • Remove Dirt and Grime: Over time, the exterior of your house accumulates dirt, dust, and grime, which can prevent paint from sticking properly. Pressure washing effectively removes these contaminants.
   • At Peninsula Starlight Painting we love our outdoors and environment so use nothing but water to clean your home.
   • Eliminate Mildew and Mold: Moist environments can foster the growth of mildew and mold, which can affect the longevity and appearance of your paint job. Pressure washing kills and removes these harmful growths.
   • Enhance Paint Adhesion: A clean surface allows the new paint to adhere better, ensuring a smoother finish and longer-lasting results.
   • Reveal Surface Issues: Pressure washing can expose areas that need repair, such as cracked or peeling paint, which can be addressed before painting.

1. How We Pressure Wash Your Home:
   
   • Choose the Right Equipment: Use a pressure washer with a psi rating between 2,000 and 3,000 for exterior surfaces. Attach a wide-angle nozzle to prevent damage to the siding.
   • Ensure all windows and doors are closed properly.
   • Start from the Bottom Up: Begin washing from the bottom of the house and work your way up to prevent streaking. Hold the nozzle at a consistent distance from the surface, usually about 2-3 feet.
   • Rinse Thoroughly: Make sure to rinse the entire surface thoroughly, removing all soap and debris.
   • Allow to Dry: After pressure washing, allow the surface to dry completely before proceeding with any repairs or painting. This typically takes 24-48 hours, depending on the weather conditions.

By following these steps, you’ll ensure that your home is properly prepped for a beautiful and long-lasting paint job. 

 Scraping:

• This involves removing loose, peeling, or flaking paint from the exterior surfaces using tools such as paint scrapers and wire brushes.
• The goal is to create a stable surface for new paint to adhere to.
• Care is taken to avoid damaging the underlying surface during this process.

Sanding:

• Sanding smooths out rough areas and feathers the edges of scraped spots to blend with the surrounding surface.
• It helps to create a uniform texture, ensuring that the new paint goes on smoothly and adheres properly.
• We use a combination of hand sanding and power sanding tools, depending on the area's size and condition.