At Royal Home Painters, we know how much a freshly painted exterior can transform a home. Whether trying to improve curb appeal or protect their siding from the elements, painting wood siding is a critical step. You can achieve a stunning and long-lasting finish with patience and attention to detail. In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step of the process, from preparation to cleanup, sharing the tips and techniques we’ve perfected over years of experience.
Step 1: Inspect and Prepare the Siding
The first step in painting wood siding or painting your deck is to assess its condition carefully. First, check for damage, such as rot, cracks, or loose boards—test for soft spots with a screwdriver. Soft spots imply rotten spots that could well need board replacements. More minor cracks can be filled with exterior-grade wood filler, while one might re-nail or screw those that have come loose to keep them in place. Attend to these, and you’ll have a sound surface to start painting on.
Next, clean the siding thoroughly to remove dirt, mildew, and any peeling paint. Use a pressure washer on a low setting, or a garden hose with a scrub brush and mild detergent, for general cleaning. Mildew-prone areas may need a bleach solution of 3 parts water to 1 part bleach. Apply this mixture to the affected areas, let it sit for about 15 minutes, and then rinse thoroughly. Allow the siding to dry completely before moving forward; this usually takes 24 to 48 hours, depending on the weather.
Related Article: How to Stain Wood? A Simple Guide for DIY
Equally important is removing old paint. A paint scraper will pull off peeling sections, while medium-grit sandpaper (80-120 grit) smooths the edges. If peeling is extensive, use a chemical paint stripper or a heat gun, but follow safety precautions. Then vacuum up dust and wipe the surface with a damp cloth to ensure it’s clean and ready for the next step.
Step 2: Priming and Sealing Your Wood Siding
Proper sealing and priming of the surface are necessary for a hard-wearing, professional finish. Start by filling in all gaps and holes around windows and doors, and between siding boards, with exterior-grade caulk. After application, go over it with a wet finger or some other tool to achieve a neat, even coat. This step will improve the final appearance and prevent moisture infiltration.
Related Article: The Ultimate Guide to Caulking: Master Every Technique
Once repairs are complete, apply a high-quality exterior primer. An oil-based primer works best for older, weathered wood, while a latex primer is ideal for newer siding. The primer seals the wood, blocks stains, and provides an excellent base for the paint to adhere to. Cover the entire surface evenly and allow the primer to dry thoroughly, following the manufacturer’s recommendations (typically about 24 hours).
Is Your Wood Siding Faded or Looking Old?
Let us show you your options to modernize your exterior Wooden siding!
Step 3: Painting Wood Siding
The most rewarding part is painting the siding. This starts with a high-quality exterior acrylic latex paint. This type of paint is flexible, durable, and water-resistant, making it ideal for wood siding. Gather your tools, including brushes for detail, rollers for larger surfaces, and possibly a paint sprayer for faster coverage in large areas. Additionally, have drop cloths, painters’ tape, and a sturdy ladder to protect your surroundings and ensure safety.
Related Article: 15 Commercial Paint Types: How to Choose the Proper One
Cut in the edges and corners with a brush first. That way, you’ll get into all the nooks and crannies that a roller or sprayer may miss. When painting the larger surfaces, use a roller and work methodically in small sections from top to bottom. This will help prevent streaking and allow you to maintain a wet edge, enabling seamless blending between sections. Always paint in the direction of the wood grain for a smooth, natural-looking finish.
Apply the first coat with the aim of even, consistent coverage. Do not hurry; this step should be done leisurely, allowing the paint to adhere well and dry properly. Usually, drying time is within 4 to 6 hours, depending on conditions and the type of paint, but always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. After the first coat of paint has dried, inspect the surface for any areas that might have been missed or imperfect. Correct these before applying a second coat.
When it comes to painting wood siding, a second coat is essential for durability and colour vibrancy. The exact process followed for the first coat should be repeated, ensuring the application is thorough and uniform. The second coat enhances the barrier against weather elements and gives the paint a rich, polished look. Remember to monitor the weather conditions during this process. Avoid extremely hot, cold, or humid days for painting, as these can interfere with the drying and curing. Try to paint in temperatures between 50°F and 85°F when no rain is forecast.
Step 4: Inspecting and Touching Up
Once the paint has thoroughly dried, carefully inspect your work. Look for any missed areas, uneven coverage, or imperfections. Use a small brush to touch up these spots for a flawless finish. Taking the time to make these final adjustments ensures a professional-quality result.
Step 5: Cleaning Up and Finalizing
Cleanup is just as important as the painting itself. If you used latex paint, wash your brushes and rollers with warm, soapy water and store them properly for future use. Remove painter’s tape carefully while the paint is still slightly tacky to avoid peeling. Dispose of empty paint cans and other materials responsibly, following local regulations.
When everything is cleaned up, take a moment to admire your hard work. A freshly painted home looks fantastic and is better protected against the elements.
Estimating the time needed for each step to paint a wood siding surface of approximately 100 square feet
| Step | Task | Estimated Time |
|---|---|---|
| Inspection | Inspecting for rot, cracks, and damage | 30 minutes |
| Surface Cleaning | Washing and removing dirt/mildew | 1-2 hours (plus 24-48 hours drying time) |
| Paint Removal | Scraping and sanding old paint | 1-2 hours |
| Priming | Applying primer and letting it dry | 1 hour (plus 24 hours drying time) |
| Painting | Applying two coats of paint | 2-3 hours per coat (total: 4-6 hours) |
| Touch-ups and Inspection | Checking and correcting imperfections | 30-60 minutes |
| Cleanup | Cleaning tools and workspace | 30 minutes |
Total Active Work Time:
Approximately 8-11 hours (not including drying times). Drying times can vary depending on the weather, so plan accordingly! Let me know if you’d like additional details or adjustments.
Conclusion
Painting wood siding is a step-by-step process that requires patience, preparation, and the right materials. Following this guide can achieve a stunning, professional-quality finish that revitalizes your home and provides long-lasting protection. At Royal Home Painters, we specialize in exterior painting and are always here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and let us bring your vision to life.
