Exterior Wood Trim: Painting For A Fresh Look

Painting old exterior wood trim can be a challenging task but is a great way to enhance the appearance of your home and protect it from the elements. In this article, we will outline the steps you need to take to paint your exterior wood trim like a professional. From preparing the surface to selecting the right paint, we will provide you with all the information you need to achieve a long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing finish.

Clean the wood trim

To paint old exterior wood trim, the first step is to clean the surface. Dirt, dust, pollen, and other airborne contaminants can all create a barrier between the paint and the trim, causing the paint to peel and flake over time. To clean the wood trim:

Firstly, protect any nearby plants by misting their leaves and saturating the surrounding soil with water. Pull them away from the house if possible, and cover them with fabric drop cloths. Lay additional drop cloths along the base of the walls to collect any falling paint debris.

Next, wash the exterior trim with a mild bleach and water solution to clean and remove any mildew. You can also use TSP (trisodium phosphate) for tougher stains. Wet the walls before you begin scrubbing. Then, wash the walls with a mixture of one gallon of water, one cup of chlorine bleach, and one cup of a concentrated, phosphate-free cleaner or a trisodium phosphate substitute. Work from the bottom to the top to avoid streaks. Rinse the walls well before the solution dries.

If your house was built before 1978, it may contain lead paint. If you suspect this is the case, carefully chip off a small sample and use an EPA-recognised lead test kit or send it to an accredited lab for testing. If the paint is lead-free, you only need to wear a mask and lay down tarps to catch debris before proceeding.

Once you're done cleaning, remove any loose, peeling, or bubbling paint with a paint scraper. Work from multiple angles to catch all problem areas, always scraping with the grain. Pay special attention to corners where paint can build up and crack. After this, sand the scraped areas where the paint meets the bare wood, using 50- or 80-grit sandpaper. This will create a smooth transition between the two.

Inspect for damage

Inspecting for damage is an important step in preparing to paint old exterior wood trim. Here are some detailed instructions to help you through the process:

Firstly, conduct a thorough inspection of the exterior trim, paying close attention to areas that are prone to moisture, such as under eaves or near the ground. Look for signs of damage, including cracks, peeling or bubbling paint, and rotting or warped wood. Use a simple test to assess the extent of the work needed: choose an inconspicuous area with poor paint, clean and dry the surface, paint a small patch, and let it dry for 24 hours. Firmly press a piece of tape onto the painted area and quickly pull it off. If the tape pulls off paint down to the bare wood, you may need to strip the entire surface before repainting.

Next, identify the type of paint currently on the exterior trim. Determine whether it is oil-based or latex paint, as this will impact your next steps. Look for common paint problems, such as alligatoring, which is a pattern of deep cracks.

Once you've assessed the condition of the trim and identified the type of paint, it's time to start preparing the surface. Use a scraper or wire brush to remove loose paint and sand rough edges to create a smooth transition between painted and bare areas. Pay special attention to corners and areas where paint can build up and crack. After scraping and sanding, fill minor cracks, holes, and dents with wood putty and a putty knife. Follow the instructions on the product to ensure proper application and setting.

If there are sections of the trim that are extensively damaged or rotten, it is best to replace those boards. This will ensure a smooth and even surface for painting. After making the necessary repairs and replacements, it is important to caulk the joints and small holes. Choose a paintable caulk and apply it generously to create a flexible seal that will allow the trim to expand and contract with temperature changes, while also keeping out moisture and insects.

Finally, scrape off any remaining old, flaking, or loose paint. This step is crucial as it helps the new paint adhere better and creates a smoother surface that is more resistant to dirt and grime. Use a paint scraper, a tool designed specifically for removing paint, to avoid damaging the bare wood underneath. Once you have removed the loose paint, sand the surface to create a smooth finish.

Prime the surface

Priming is an essential step in painting exterior wood trim, as it ensures the paint adheres properly and that the colour is distributed evenly. It also helps protect the wood from weather damage.

Before priming, it is important to clean the trim to remove any dirt, dust, mildew, or other contaminants. This can be done with a mild bleach and water solution or TSP (trisodium phosphate) for tougher stains. Once the trim is clean, repair any cracks or holes with wood putty and a putty knife.

When choosing a primer, select one that is specifically designed for use on wood. This will ensure proper adhesion and prevent peeling or chipping. Look for a high-quality latex acrylic primer with 100% acrylic binders. If you are painting over cedar or redwood, use an oil-based primer to prevent tannins from bleeding through the paint.

To apply the primer, use a paintbrush or roller. Start by cutting in along the edges of the trim and then use a roller to cover the rest of the surface. Allow the primer to dry completely before moving on to the next step, which is painting.

In addition to improving paint adhesion, priming can also help create a smoother finish. If there are any areas of the trim that are particularly rough or uneven, lightly sand them after priming to create a smooth, even surface.

By following these steps and properly priming the surface, you will ensure that your paint job on the exterior wood trim looks professional and lasts for years to come.

Choose the right paint

Painting exterior wood trim is a great way to protect your home and increase its curb appeal. Choosing the right paint is essential to ensure the paint job's durability and aesthetics. Here are some factors to consider when selecting the right paint for your exterior wood trim:

Type of Paint

The two main types of paint to choose from are water-based (latex or acrylic) and oil-based. Modern acrylic latex paint is widely considered the best choice for exterior painting due to its durability, flexibility, colour retention, and ease of use. It resists fading, peeling, and blistering better than oil-based paints and can expand and contract with changing temperatures. Latex paint is also easy to clean up and less prone to yellowing over time. However, oil-based paint has its advantages, offering excellent adhesion, durability, and a smooth finish. It is particularly useful for exterior trim or high-traffic areas and is more resistant to moisture and everyday wear and tear.

Sheen

The sheen or finish of the paint affects both the appearance and performance of your paint job. For exterior wood trim, a satin, semi-gloss, or full gloss finish is recommended. These finishes provide more durability and are easier to clean. They also help the trim stand out and provide an accent to your home's exterior.

Additives

When choosing exterior trim paint, look for additives such as mildewcide, which will help prevent mildew growth. This additive can be mixed into the paint if it is not already included.

Colour

When selecting a colour for your exterior wood trim, consider the existing colours on your home, including the siding, roof, and surrounding landscape features. You also want to take into account the architectural style of your home. For example, a traditional home with brick siding might suit a classic white or cream trim, while a home with vinyl siding may offer more flexibility in colour choices. You can purchase sample cans to test out different colours before making a final decision.

Primer

It is essential to use a primer before painting exterior wood trim. Choose a bonding primer designed explicitly for glossy surfaces like varnished wood. An oil-based primer will provide a more durable and moisture-resistant base for your paint. If you are painting the trim white, select a primer that matches the shade of your paint. If you are using a coloured paint, a white primer can be custom-tinted to match your chosen shade.

Paint application

Painting exterior wood trim can be a challenging task, but with the right tools and techniques, you can achieve professional results. Here are some detailed instructions for the paint application process:

Before you begin painting, make sure you have chosen the right type of paint for your exterior wood trim. Exterior paint is formulated differently from interior paint to withstand tough weather conditions. Select a high-quality paint with a semi-gloss or full-gloss finish for added protection and a smooth finish.

Prepare your paint and work area:

• Pour your chosen paint into a bucket or tray. If using a roller, you will need a roller tray to evenly distribute the paint.
• Work in an area with moderate humidity and out of direct sunlight. Maintain a temperature between 50°F and 85°F (or 50º-90º F) for optimal paint application.
• Protect nearby surfaces and plants by laying drop cloths or fabric sheets.

Apply primer:

• Use a high-quality primer specifically designed for exterior wood surfaces. Exterior latex primer or oil-based primer are good options.
• Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application. You can use a paintbrush, roller, or sprayer, depending on the size of the area and your personal preference.
• Allow the primer to dry completely before proceeding to the next step. This usually takes about 2 hours.

Paint the trim:

• Select a high-quality paintbrush with an angled edge for better reach in corners and edges. You can also use a small roller for larger, flat areas.
• Start painting from the top of the trim and work your way down to easily manage drips.
• Use smooth, continuous strokes, ensuring that each stroke begins on wet paint. Avoid overloading the brush to prevent drips, and apply enough paint to avoid streaks.
• Work in long strokes and avoid overbrushing, as stroke lines are typically not visible on exterior trim.
• For paneled doors and frames, start painting in the recessed area of the panel, working from the top to the bottom.
• Maintain a "wet edge" by re-loading the brush as needed to avoid visible brush marks and ensure a smooth finish.
• When painting vertical trim, work from the top down to easily manage any drips.
• If using a ladder, only carry the amount of paint you need in a small container, and be careful not to overfill it.

Allow the paint to dry:

• Follow the paint manufacturer's instructions for drying time. Most paints will require several hours to dry completely.
• Ensure proper ventilation during the drying process.

Apply a second coat:

• For the best results and a more uniform finish, apply a second coat of paint.
• Follow the same painting techniques as the first coat, ensuring smooth and continuous strokes.

Clean up:

• Clean your brushes and rollers immediately after use to prevent paint hardening.
• Dispose of any paint rags and leftover paint safely and according to local regulations.

Remember to take your time, work in a systematic manner, and always follow safety precautions when working on a ladder or handling paint. With these steps, you'll be well on your way to achieving a professional-looking paint job on your exterior wood trim.

Frequently asked questions