One question that homeowners often have when it comes to exterior painting is: “Do I really need to remove all of the old paint before getting started?” This is a valid question—especially considering that it can sometimes take a bit of time and money! However, most of the time, you can’t expect your project to go well if you neglect this important step. Here’s more about why it’s something you shouldn’t skip, along with a few tips for doing it the right way.
Why Is It Best to Remove My Old Paint?
In many cases, a proper prep job, including cleaning, scraping loose paint, sanding rough edges, and priming bare spots, is all that’s needed before applying a fresh coat of paint. The goal is to have a stable and clean surface for your new paint, but old paint often doesn’t accommodate this.
If your home has significant paint buildup, especially around trim, window casings, and architectural details, full removal may be the only way to achieve a lasting result. Paint layers expand and contract with temperature changes, and the more layers you have, the more stress is placed on the bond between the wood and the paint.
If there’s also widespread peeling or cracking, you’ll want to remove the old paint, especially if it’s covering large sections of siding, occurring in multiple layers simultaneously, or presenting as a scaly pattern called “alligatoring.” This is often caused by moisture damage, and painting over this will only temporarily hide the problem!
Finally, you have to keep in mind that very old paint might be lead-based, which means removing it is the safest option for you and anyone else living in the home.
How Should I Remove Exterior Paint Before Repainting?
There are a few different methods used to remove exterior paint, and the right one depends on your home’s specific situation:
- Thermal removal uses a heat gun or infrared tool to warm the paint until it bubbles up, at which point it can be scraped away cleanly. It works especially well on surfaces with heavy buildup or paint that is already peeling, cracking, or alligatoring.
- Abrasive removal, which involves sanding, scraping, and shaving, is the most used method and one of the safest. It’s best suited for prepping localized areas rather than stripping an entire surface, and it’s generally the most cost-effective approach.
- Chemical stripping uses specially formulated products that penetrate the paint film and cause it to swell and release from the surface. It can be effective, but it’s messier and involves safety precautions that make it less practical for most exterior, as well as most DIY, jobs.
If you’re unsure about what method to use, it’s all the more reason to entrust your project to a team of pros! They’ll be sure to remove all of the old paint so that your home’s new look lasts for as long as possible—and they’ll take care of everything else that goes into painting, saving you the hassle!
About Platinum Painting of Richardson
Here at Platinum Painting, our team has been helping home and business owners all around Richardson and the surrounding DFW metroplex for several years. We offer a wide range of interior and exterior painting services, so if you’re ready to transform your home, our experts are ready to help. To learn more about the blog or our services, or to schedule a FREE in-home estimate, just reach out online or call today. Telephone: (469) 965-1863.