What is a critical step before starting an exterior painting job?

Before beginning an exterior painting job, inspecting the surface for damage and repairs needed is essential. This step ensures that the surface is adequately prepared for painting, which is crucial for achieving a durable and aesthetically pleasing finish. If damage such as rot, cracks, or peeling paint is overlooked, it can lead to significant issues after the painting is completed, including premature failure of the paint and ongoing damage to the substrate beneath.

Assessing the condition of the surfaces allows you to identify and address any necessary repairs, such as filling in gaps, sanding surfaces smooth, or applying appropriate primers. This preparation work helps ensure that the paint adheres properly and results in a smoother application.

While selecting paint color, covering furniture, and testing paint consistency are all important tasks as well, they occur after the initial inspection and necessary repairs have taken place. Without first ensuring that the surface is sound, the effectiveness of any paint job may be severely compromised. Thus, focusing on surface inspection at the outset is critical for a successful exterior painting project.