Tips for Protecting Exterior Paint in Charleston, SC
The beautiful Lowcountry, known for its sunny weather, sea salt breezes, and stunning views is now becoming an increasingly popular place to move. If you want an exterior paint job that gives you lasting results, preemptive measures can go a long way. Keeping the paint on the outside of your home looking refreshing can be challenging, (especially where sunlight and extreme weather remain a threat) however, there are several steps you can take to help prevent the paint from getting damaged. Here are our top tips for protecting exterior paint in Charleston, SC.
Deep Clean the Exterior Prior to Painting
First things first – no paint job will measure up to its best quality without a proper sudsing and scrubbing. Even though the home may look clean at first glance, exterior materials collect and trap dirt and debris. The new paint won’t adhere well on a dirty surface, so we recommend a thorough pressure washing prior to painting your home. If you skip this step and paint over dirt, your paint job won’t give the same professional look or long-lasting results that you want.
Let the Surface Dry
After cleaning your home’s exterior, it may be tempting to dive head first into the paint job, but this is one of the worst mistakes you can make. We recommend waiting 24-48 hours after cleaning to begin painting. Beware of dew as well, as any moisture will make paint adhering more difficult.
Use a High Quality Primer
Before you apply any paint, be sure to choose a high quality primer first. Primers help the exterior to seal and provide a smooth, even base to apply paint. In addition to slowing the process of fading, it will have your paint job looking smooth and crisp.
Choose Paint Type Wisely
Exterior paints vary, and it’s important to research paints that will hold up well in the Carolina heat before making a decision on which one to go with. When painting in Charleston, it is essential to use mildew-resistant and UV blocking paint to combat humidity and extreme heat. Acrylic latex paints tend to give the best results for homes in a warm climate, and will provide a long-lasting, vibrant color.
Apply Multiple Coats
Most paints are designed to look flawless after just one coat, but applying two can actually help protect your paint job especially when painting the exterior of a home. With 2-3 coats, the color will last longer and provide a thicker layer between the paint and the elements. Beware of over-painting, as this could cause the paint to peel off or crack.
Beware of Moisture
Humidity and salty air makes a perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew growth, especially in the Lowcountry. While some moisture is inevitable, try to remove any damp or wet items from around your home. Some items to look out for include overgrown landscaping, pools, or leaky hoses. Once growth begins to spread, it will become more difficult to manage.
Trim Landscaping
Landscaping is one of the major culprits contributing to mold and mildew growth on home exteriors. Plants can trap moisture from rain, and if they directly touch the house, they can spread growth onto the house. Landscaping should generally be planted no closer than two or three feet away from your house to ensure it stays in tip-top shape.
Maintain Regular Exterior Maintenance
Regular exterior maintenance is essential for maintaining a lasting, beautiful paint job in Charleston. Clean your home exterior regularly using water and diluted, mild detergent to remove bird droppings, dirt, mildew, salt, or other debris that may get trapped. You can pressure wash the home to remove stubborn stains, but be sure to use it on a low-pressure setting to avoid damaging the paint.
Additionally, you’ll want to keep the roof and gutters in check. Keeping a well-maintained roof prevents excessive water runoff and can reduce the risk of mildew growth. With Charleston’s frequent rain and humidity, moisture can creep into even the smallest gaps. Use weatherproof caulk around windows, doors, and trim to prevent moisture from getting behind the paint, causing rot or peeling.
Repaint When Necessary
Repainting is a necessary step if you want your paint to keep the same clean glow. In Charleston’s climate of heat and humidity, we recommend a paint touch-up every 5-7 years, depending on the level of exposure your home has to the elements. This may vary depending on the side of the house, as some sides will be in direct sunlight more than others.
Hire A Professional Painter in Charleston, SC
An exterior paint job can really make or break the character of a home, so you’ll want to research and choose wisely before selecting a contractor. At Low Country Painting, you’ll find “the painters you can trust for lasting results!” If you’re looking for a reliable painting company that will give you the polished look you need, book a consultation and get your free estimate today!