27 March 2023
 Categories: , Blog

A fresh paint job can make any exterior surface look new again. But to maintain that beautiful, freshly painted appearance, you'll have to take extra steps to protect your paint job from the harsh weather elements. Here are a few tips on how to keep your fresh paint looking its best throughout the year.

Regular Cleaning

To keep your paint looking its best, regular cleaning is key. You can use a mild detergent and water solution with a soft cloth or sponge to clean away dirt and debris without damaging the paint finish. This will help keep the paint looking vibrant and help prevent fading or wearing down.

It also helps rinse any soap residue with clean water so it doesn't attract more dirt or damage the paint surface. But avoid using abrasive cleaners because they can cause scratches and other damage. Some power washers can also be too harsh for exterior paint jobs. Talk to an exterior paint expert to find out the best cleaning methods you can apply.

Waterproof Sealing

Applying a waterproof sealant or paint sealer to your exterior surfaces can help protect them from water damage, fading, and cracking. You need to do this every few years to protect your exterior paint.

Waterproof sealants contain wax and other compounds that form a protective barrier between the paint and environmental elements. On the other hand, paint sealers are designed to penetrate deep into the paint and provide an extra layer of protection. They can also help to restore the original color and brilliance of your paint job. Both create an additional barrier between the exterior surface and the environment, which helps prevent fading, chipping, and other damage from UV rays, rain, snow, and ice.

Touch-Ups

It's inevitable that over time there will be some chips in your home's exterior paint job due to age, weathering, and other factors. Touching up small chips or scratches as soon as they appear can help protect your paint job from further damage. The sooner you spot these chips, the better your chance of keeping them from turning into eye sores.

Usually, touch-ups begin with sanding down the area to provide a smooth surface for painting. After that's done, you can use a paintbrush or roller to apply touch-up paint that matches the original color.

Most people who DIY this job find it's best to apply multiple thin coats and let each coat dry before applying another. But it's not always easy to match the original color, so it's best to consult with an expert if you're unsure. 

Contact a local exterior painting service, such as Elevation Painting LLC, to learn more.