Categories Exterior Painting

How to Paint a Porch: The Step by Step Guide 

How To Paint A Porch

Most people don’t know the proper way to paint a porch. After all, it isn’t a space you commonly paint such as your bathroom or living room. It can often seem like a very tedious task, but knowing what steps to follow, along with the best paint for your job, can make for a simple project with results you can be proud of. 

If you live in the Boise area and need help with your exterior home painting or porch painting, we’ll give you a free quote! We serve the entire Boise area including Meridian and Eagle.

How to Paint a Porch 

When gearing up to paint your porch, there are some simple steps to follow to get started: 

  1. Remove Everything From Your Porch 

Your very first step should be to remove everything from your porch. This would include any furniture as well as decorations on your floor. Be sure to cover any items you don’t want to be painted but can’t remove, with a drop cloth for paint protection. 

  1. Thoroughly Clean the Area 

Once everything is removed, you’ll want to give your porch a good cleaning. Start by sweeping away any cobwebs or debris. You’ll need a smooth, clean surface before painting for the best results. Next, hose down the area, allowing plenty of time to dry before applying any paint. 

If you have a wooden porch, you’ll want to sweep away all dirt, paying special attention to cleaning between the cracks and crevices of the planks. 

  1. Apply Primer 

Once your porch is clean, it’s a good idea to prime before you start painting. If you’re working with a wood surface, apply two coats of primer with a roller. Allow at least 8 hours to dry. 

For concrete porches, apply only one coat of primer with a roller on an extension pole and also let dry for at least 8 hours. 

  1. Pick a Paint Color

Once you decide which color to go with, be sure to choose an exterior, porch-specific paint that is designed to withstand the wear and tear of foot traffic and can handle the outdoor elements. 

How to Paint a Wooden Porch 

If your porch has a wooden surface, clean and spray it down completely then give it at least 24 hours to dry. Once you’re certain the surface is dry, use a sander to help remove any existing paint. Remember to wear protective eyewear and a mask during sanding. After you’ve finished sanding, sweep away any residual dust from the surface. 

Next comes taping. Use high-quality painters tape to ensure your new paint doesn’t get onto the siding or trim of your home. Now that you have all your edges taped off, it’s time to apply an exterior primer. Pay attention to any debris the wind may blow into your fresh primers so it doesn’t stick to the primer as it dries. Depending on the outside temperature, you’ll need to let your primer dry from 2-8 hours before moving on. 

Now you can apply your paint of choice. Allow around 8 hours to dry before applying a second coat. 

How to Paint a Concrete Porch 

For a concrete porch you’ll still start with cleaning but you’ll want to use concrete chemicals for the best results. Safety needs to be a big concern during this part of the process so wear gloves and a mask for protection. After you’ve thoroughly scrubbed the concrete down with a scrub brush, spray with a hose or pressure washer and let it completely dry. This generally takes around 24 hours but will obviously dry faster on warmer days. 

Tape off any areas you don’t want paint to touch then start applying a concrete primer. After your primer has had a chance to dry, apply your paint of choice. Make sure you go with a concrete exterior paint. Exterior paints are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and general activity. When finished, allow at least 24 hours for your paint to dry. 

Best Paint for Porches 

When painting a porch floor, you’ll want to choose a porch or deck paint that is designed for your specific porch surface. Concrete porches do well with low-luster acrylic latex paints. This paint is excellent at preventing scuffing, bubbling, cracking, and fading, and hides all those little imperfections. It’s also durable and stain resistant. For a wooden porch, we recommend Premium Advanced Deckover by Behr. It comes in dozens of colors and makes your wood splinter-proof. It may cost a little more but the fact that it’s mildew-resistant and long-lasting makes it well worth your money. Also, be sure to choose an exterior paint specifically made for horizontal surfaces rather than vertical ones for walls and trim. 

Cost to Paint a Porch 

Obviously, the size of your porch and the quality of paint you choose will play a large part in figuring out how much painting your porch will cost. On average, you can expect to pay around $2-$5 per square foot. Porches are usually around 150 square feet in size with a typical cost running around $525. Take the time to accurately measure your porch before purchasing paint so you’ll have a good idea of what you’ll be spending. 

Paint Ideas for Porches 

Because your porch is one of the first things people see when they pull up to your home, it can have a profound overall impact on its appearance. With that said, if your porch is looking run-down and dingy, it puts a negative spin on your curb appeal. And while your front porch can give a powerful first impression, don’t forget about your back porch. A back porch is an extension of your home as well as a place to create memories with friends and family. 

We’ve compiled a few of our favorite porch painting ideas that can add personality and style to the entryway of your home:

  • Go with a Contrasting Paint Color 

Painting your porch a contrasting color from the rest of your home is an excellent way to highlight this unique feature. The color you choose for your porch doesn’t need to match that of your house but needs to be a nice compliment. 

  • Have fun with Patterns 

A bold or playful pattern can be an attention-grabbing asset to any porch. From your classic checkerboard diamonds to stripes or stamped concrete, a pattern can dress up your porch with a fun and inviting element of style. Black and white will always be a popular duo. However, neutral or earthy tones of blue, gray, tan, and brown will always pair well with rock pillars or dark wood doors. 

  • Look to your Landscaping 

Don’t forget that your landscaping is a natural way to compliment your porch. You can draw in the bold floral colors of blossoms to enhance your porch’s beauty or keep a crisp and clean look while contrasting your white porch against crisp green foliage. 

How to Paint a Porch Conclusion 

Painting your porch isn’t a complicated process. Follow the steps focused on above and you’ll be thrilled with the results of your labors. However, if you prefer to leave your porch painting to the professionals, contact Boise Home Painting. Our skilled team of painters has years of experience throughout the entire Treasure Valley. We pay attention to the details and only use the best quality products to ensure our customers are more than satisfied with the finished product. 

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Categories Painting

Sanding Between Coats of Paint: Should You Do It?

When Should You Sand Between Coats of Paint?

There are several factors that will determine if sanding between coats of paint is necessary for your DIY project. Where and what you are painting as well as what kind of paint you are painting with are all factors that will determine if sanding between coats will be beneficial. The good news is, you generally won’t harm anything by taking the extra time to sand. However, with time being a precious commodity, you might not want to throw in that added step unless it will make a noticeable difference in your finished product.

When You Should Sand Between Coats of Paint

The proper amount of sanding can make all the difference in the outcome of your painting project. If the surface you’re painting has peeling or bubbling paint, you’ll most certainly want to sand it down before applying your first coat.

 Sanding serves multiple purposes, such as creating a slightly rough surface which helps your paint adhere better as well as removing any old paint. Taking the extra time to sand when necessary could save you time in the long run. By not sanding, you may end up wasting more time in an effort to correct your mistakes later. But when it comes to sanding between coats, there are some important things to consider because every project is unique.

  • What Type of Paint You’re Using

What type of paint you choose to work with will ultimately be the biggest factor in determining if you need to sand between coats. Some paints adhere extremely well to certain surfaces while others need a rough or scuffed-up area for the best application.

 For example, when working with bathroom trim or kitchen cabinets with semi-gloss or high-gloss finishes, you’ll most definitely need to sand between coats. This is because typically, most paint won’t adhere to a glossy surface. On the other hand, if you’ve already painted your living room with a matte or eggshell finish paint, after adequate drying time, you’re safe to apply a second coat with no sanding at all in between. 

Opting to work with cheap paint is also another factor to consider. Lower-quality paints have more of a tendency to drip, run, bubble, and leave behind brush strokes far more than paints that are of higher quality. You really do get what you pay for. However, sanding between coats can cover up a myriad of imperfections as well as help your paint adhere better. 

  • Where You’re Painting

Sanding can be tedious and messy but well worth it in the end. It can help you achieve the silky-smooth finish we all desire. As a general rule, it isn’t necessary to sand between coats when painting drywall interior projects. Minor imperfections on your wall or tiny bits of debris from your roller won’t be noticeable against a slightly textured wall. However, areas with bright lighting that will spotlight your walls or cabinets are prime candidates for that extra dose of sanding.

  • How Long the Project Will Take

Properly sanding between coats can be a fairly quick addition to your project or can add quite a bit of time depending on the kind of surface you’re painting. A smooth surface will require you to thoroughly sand the entire wall which could take a considerable amount of time. In comparison, sanding a textured area may mean nothing more than sanding down a few areas where you see blemishes or imperfections. 

It’s also important to take into account for proper drying times between coats. You need to allow for a minimum of 24 hours of drying time between coats which could significantly postpone the completion of your project for a few days. If you have the time to sand between coats, it’s probably a good idea. But if you simply need the project completed on a deadline, you may have to forego the extra sanding and decide if the quality of your project or your time constraints are more important.

  • Tools You’ll Need

Make sure you select the sandpaper with the proper grit for your project. Generally, 180-220 grit is a good choice for sanding between coats. These extra fine grits do a great job on most interior walls. Grits of 240 and higher are best suited for projects where polishing is involved. 

Remember that after you’ve finished sanding between coats, you’ll need to wipe down the surface with a rag to completely remove the fine dust left behind. If much dust has settled on the surface, your second coat won’t adhere correctly. 

When You Should Not Sand Between Coats of Paint

There are a few instances when we recommend NOT sanding between coats of paint. Sanding between coats of touch-up paint, primer coats, or clearcoat can often leave you in a bind and unnecessary work. Your basecoat may feel dry but could potentially still be too soft to sand down. No one wants to sand the entire finish down and start over. 

Once you’ve completed your last coat of primer, you should go ahead and sand before applying your first coat of base color. However, there is no reason at all to sand between coats of primer. It will only add more work to your plate with no visible benefits. 

Sanding Between Coats of Paint Conclusion

While sanding between coats of paint is usually of benefit, it’s a good idea to evaluate your circumstances and consider what kind of paint you’re using and the surface you’re working on to help make your decision. If you have a painting project that you want to turn over to the professionals at a low cost to you, call Boise Home Painting. We are a local business that can provide you with the experience and skills you deserve. Whether your project is large or small, we bring passion and quality to every job we take. We serve the entire Boise area including Meridian and Eagle. Click here to schedule your free estimate.

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Categories Painting

Can You Paint over Lead Paint?

Can You Paint Over Lead Paint?

Can you paint over lead paint? The answer is yes. Whether you’re flipping an older home for a profit or planning to live there, finding the presence of lead in your paint might feel like a major setback. 

Luckily, as long as you use the correct type of paint, you can paint over lead paint. This is known as encapsulation. Using a type of paint called an encapsulant, the lead paint is sealed off so that it cannot contaminate your home.

How to Paint over Lead Paint

Can you paint over lead paint? Yes. But how? The answer is that it takes a little more work than a traditional paint job. Make sure you follow these steps when painting over lead-based paint. 

  1. Test the paint. If your home was built before 1978, you’ll want to test the paint to determine whether or not lead is present. You can opt for a DIY testing kit, but an analysis from a professional lead testing lab will be more accurate. 
  2. If you have lead paint in your home, you’ll want to look at the condition of the paint. As long as the finish of the lead paint is intact, you can use encapsulation to paint over lead-based paint. However, if the lead-based paint is cracked or otherwise in poor condition, you cannot safely encapsulate it. If this is the case, you’ll need to hire a professional to remove the lead-based paint from your home. 
  3. Remove all household items and furniture from the room you’re working on. 
  4. Seal off the area you’re working on with plastic sheeting to prevent lead-contaminated dust from traveling to other areas of the home. 
  5. Wipe down the surface with a wet cloth. Never chip, scrape, or sand lead-based paint.
  6. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on your encapsulant to apply the paint. Most of the time, this will mean using a brush, roller, or airless paint sprayer to apply the encapsulant.  

Why Lead Paint is Dangerous

Lead is poisonous for humans, particularly children who are still developing. When lead paint is disturbed, it becomes airborne. You might breathe in the lead-laced particles, or it might settle on your furniture. When inhaled or consumed, lead-based paint causes lead poisoning. 

Mild symptoms of lead poisoning include nausea, headaches, trouble sleeping, and loss of appetite. Longer-term exposure to lead can lead to severe lead poisoning, which causes memory loss, vomiting, weakness, aggressive behavior, seizures, comas, and confusion. 

Precautions to Take

Because of the dangers of lead poisoning, lead-based paint needs to be handled properly. Even if the lead paint is still in good condition, you need to take precautions to stay safe. 

  • Wear protective gear, including a respirator, goggles, gloves, shoe covers, and coveralls. 
  • Never scrape or sand lead paint. This will release lead particles into the air. 
  • Keep children and adults with at-risk health conditions away from the home until the project is complete. 
  • Use a HEPA filter while you work, as well as for a little bit after, to filter out the lead dust that might have been kicked into the air. 
  • Make sure you wash all of your protective gear at the end of each day. Throw away disposable protective gear. Wash your clothing thoroughly. You don’t want to contaminate other parts of the house with lead dust!
  • Wash your painting tools thoroughly after the project is done. Dispose of all drop cloths and plastic sheets used during the project

Types of Paint to Use

When painting over lead paint, you can’t use typical oil or water-based paint. The toxins from the lead will still seep through typical paints. Instead, you’ll need to purchase a special kind of paint called an encapsulant. Encapsulants are thicker than typical paint and keep the lead protected behind a membrane. Encapsulants are available at just about any paint or hardware store. 

There are three types of encapsulants: 

  • Traditional polymers
  • Epoxy or polyurethane polymers
  • Cement-like products that contain polymers

If you’re taking on the project yourself, you’ll probably want to stick with a polymer and epoxy-based encapsulant. Cement-like products require mixing that can be tricky for DIYers. 

Benefits of Hiring a Painting Company vs DIY

After asking “Can you paint over lead paint?” and finding out that you can, you might be tempted to DIY the project. If you only have one room to worry about or a piece of furniture, painting over the lead-based paint on your own might be just fine. However, hiring a professional painting company to paint over your lead paint comes with many benefits: 

  • Painting companies, like the pros at Boise Home Painting, are trained specifically on how to handle painting over lead-based paint. 
  • A professional painting company can evaluate the condition of your paint to see if it’s eligible for encapsulation. 
  • Professionals have to follow the EPA regulations in the Renovation, Repair, and Painting rule, which means you can be sure the job is done correctly. 
  • Perhaps one of the biggest benefits of hiring a painting company overdoing it yourself is peace of mind. Lead paint poses a serious safety risk for all occupants of the home. You want to know that you’re safe in your home. 

If you need to encapsulate lead-based paint in your home, you can count on the professionals at Boise Home Painting. We’ll protect your family from the dangers of lead paint and give you peace of mind that’s worth its weight in gold. We serve the entire Boise area with commercial and residential painting including Merdian, Caldwell, and Eagle. Click here to get your free estimate!

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Categories Exterior Painting

Can You Paint Pressure Treated Wood?

Can you paint pressure treated wood?

Pressure treated wood is used for numerous outdoor projects. Because it’s been treated with chemicals, people often wonder, “Can you paint pressure treated wood?” While you most certainly can paint pressure treated wood, it’s important to be sure it’s had proper time to dry as well as knowing which kind of paint will adhere best. Continue reading to learn the ins and outs of painting pressure treated wood so your next outdoor project will be a success. 

What is Pressure Treated Wood? 

Pressure treated wood is simply wood that’s been treated with chemicals to protect it from moisture and insects. The chemicals it’s treated with don’t necessarily make the wood stronger but prevent it from prematurely rotting. Wood structures that will be constantly exposed to moisture or the elements are often built with pressure treated wood. Fences, playgrounds, decks, railings and playground equipment are typically constructed with pressure treated wood to hold up better over time. 

When to Paint Pressure Treated Wood 

The most important thing to consider when painting pressure treated wood is drying time. It may take up to 3-4 months for it to completely dry out enough to paint. One easy way to test if pressure treated wood is ready to paint is to drop some water on its surface. If the water droplets bead up, you’ll know the treated wood is still too damp. Once the droplets are absorbed into the wood instead of being repelled, it’s ready to be painted.

When Not to Paint Pressure Treated Wood 

Be very aware that if you attempt painting pressure treated wood before it’s fully cured, it can leave you with a disaster. If you paint one side of the wood but it isn’t fully dry, you will most likely deal with some pretty severe warping. The non-painted side will dry faster and when that happens, you’ll end up not only with warped wood but with peeling and cracking paint as well. 

How to Paint Pressure Treated Wood 

Painting pressure treated wood involves steps that you wouldn’t necessarily take when painting regular lumber. Below is a list of step-by-step instructions you’ll need when painting pressure treated wood:

Step 1. Thoroughly Clean the Wood

Making sure the wood you’re working with is clean is the first step you’ll need to take before painting. Using a stiff-bristled brush and a solution of soapy water, scrub the entire surface of the wood. Follow up the cleaning with a good rinse and let dry. 

Step 2. Let the Wood Dry 

If you have an upcoming project that involves pressure treated wood, make sure and plan ahead when considering drying time. Be prepared that it could take as long as a few weeks to a couple of months. If you have a deadline on your project, it may be worth purchasing pressure treated wood that has already been through the drying process. 

Once the wood feels dry, test it out by using the water droplet method mentioned earlier in this article. If water beads up on the surface of the treated wood, it needs more time to dry. If the water absorbs into the wood, it’s dry enough to go forward with your painting. 

Step 3. Apply Primer 

Once you know your wood is completely dry you can begin applying your primer. Make sure and purchase a primer that is designed for exterior pressure-treated wood. A paint sprayer is fast and efficient but also using a brush may be necessary to catch all the detail work. 

Step 4. Apply Paint or Stain 

After you’ve allowed proper time for the primer coat to dry, you can start applying your top coats. We recommend applying two coats for the best protection and coverage. Stick with using latex paints as they tend to work best when dealing with pressure treated wood. Avoid using oil-based paints. 

Can You Paint Pressure Treated Wood Conclusion

Pressure treated wood may need a few extra steps in preparation for painting but other than that it’s a fairly straightforward process. However, if you feel your painting project may be more involved than you would like, and you live in the Boise area, calling in the professionals at Boise Home Painting is always a great option. Our team of experienced painters will be happy to answer all of your questions or give you a free quote. We serve the entire Boise area including Meridian and Eagle. Don’t hesitate to contact our office today!

Categories Painting

How Often Should You Paint Your House?

How Often Should You Paint Your House?

Painting your home can take lots of time and can also prove to be quite expensive. So, how often should you paint your house? Waiting too long can do costly damage to the integrity of your home. On the other hand, you don’t want to spend money to upgrade your paint if your paint has plenty of life left. Because your home is likely your biggest asset, it’s important to recognize the signs when it’s ready for a fresh coat of paint. 

How Often You Should Paint Your House Exterior 

Most painting professionals agree that you should paint the exterior of your home every 5-10 years. That number certainly isn’t set in stone and may vary depending on the surface of your home and the quality of paint previously applied. Here are some guidelines to follow for painting different surfaces: 

  • Aluminum siding needs to be repainted every 5 years 
  • Wood surfaces require painting every 5-7 years 
  • Stucco should be repainted roughly every 5-6 years 

How Long Does Exterior Paint Last? 

There are some things to consider when it comes to prolonging your home’s exterior paint. If you want your paint job to last for 5-10 years, a lot is riding on the quality and kind of paint you choose. Just like everything, a higher quality paint will likely cost you more but is well worth it in the long run. Do some research before buying to ensure you are purchasing the best paint for your specific surface. You’ll need different paint for stucco, wood, aluminum, or brick. Keep in mind that a high-quality gallon of paint runs around $30. 

How Often You Should Paint your House Interior 

It’s difficult to give a specific time frame when it comes to painting the interior of your home. The level of use in each room is different which means that higher traffic areas will need to be repainted more often than a room that is rarely used. 

On average, most interior rooms may need to be repainted every 5-7 years. Children’s rooms, kitchens, and bathrooms may require painting closer to every 3-4 years. Even if you use the most durable paint finishes, kitchen walls are prone to grease and food splatters and will always require maintenance sooner. Bathroom and kitchen walls require wiping down on a more regular basis, naturally causing the paint to wear down more quickly. Adult bedrooms, as well as formal dining rooms, don’t actually get used very often.

These rooms tend to have more furniture which naturally keeps any traffic away from the walls, prolonging the life of the paint. Children’s bedrooms often function as a playroom as well as a bedroom. This usually means there’s an abundance of activity taking place every day which can lead to not only dirty walls but dented and damaged walls. When painting these rooms, always opt for the more durable paint finishes such as eggshell or satin. Taking advantage of these more protective sheens will prevent dirt from showing and keep your walls looking nicer longer. 

Signs you Should Repaint Your House 

There are various conditions that indicate it’s time to paint your house. Odds are, you may not even remember how long it’s been since your exterior was updated. If it’s been a while, it’s important to self-evaluate the condition of your exterior. You don’t want to be negligent when it comes to such an important matter. Here are a few signs to look for:

  1. Fading Paint 

One of the most obvious ways to detect that it’s time to paint the exterior of your home is fading. Over time, the Boise sun will cause your paint to fade, especially in areas where the sun directly hits your paint the longest. If your home is painted a dark color, you’ll likely notice any fading much sooner 

than with a lighter shade. If you see fading on the shaded parts of your home, you could have a problem with water intrusion. Look for stains dripping downward that may indicate a water leak. Call in a professional if you can’t determine the source of the problem. 

  1. Hardened Caulk 

Caulk used on the exterior of your home is generally designed to expand and contract along with your house. It’s used to seal cracks between doors and windows. After years of exposure to the sun, caulk loses its elasticity and can become hard or start to crack. If you see areas where caulk is missing, hardened, or cracked, it’s time to repaint. 

  1. Patching Stucco

Re-stuccoing your entire home is very expensive. To cut down on costs, patch cracked areas and repaint the entire house. Otherwise, you’ll be left with obvious patchwork areas and unsightly streaks. 

  1. Bubbling, or Flaking Paint 

There are several factors that contribute to bubbling, flaking, or cracking paint. But all are signs that there is a problem that needs to be addressed. Generally, all of these concerns are an indicator that the paint is no longer adhering to the house. Somehow, moisture is getting beneath the paint. Extreme humidity, storms, and harsh climates can cause these symptoms in your paint. 

  1. If You Want to Improve Curb Appeal 

Maybe you just purchased your home but don’t love the color. Or you might feel that times have changed and you want a more up-to-date style. If you’re looking to sell, an updated exterior is proven to make your home sell faster and for a better price. Whatever the reason, a fresh coat of exterior paint will most certainly improve the curb appeal of your home.

How Often Should You Paint Your House Conclusion 

Painting the exterior of your home can be a very daunting task. However, letting your exterior paint job go for even a few extra years can result in costly damage to your home. If you live in the Boise area and you’re unsure if your exterior is in need of repainting or you in fact know that it does, contact Boise Home Painting today. Our friendly team of experts can assess the situation and answer all your questions. We serve the entire area including Meridian, Caldwell, and Eagle. Click here to get your free consultation. 

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