How to Paint a Front Porch With Tongue & Groove

Sand the entire surface of the tongue-and-groove floor in the same direction as the wood grain, using a fine-grit sander to dull the existing paint. Sanding allows the primer to adhere correctly. Sand the posts, steps, railings, spindles and other details with a fine-grit detail sander.

Wash off the sanded surfaces with a cloth rag and bucket of soapy water. Allow the surface to completely dry before continuing.

Brush on an even coat of primer with a 3-inch synthetic-bristle paintbrush. Start with the highest areas of the porch and work your way down so you don't have to place a stepladder against wet paint. Cut in the edges with the 2-inch sash paintbrush. Paint all of the small detailed areas such as spindles, railings and trim with the sash brush. Allow the primer to dry for at least four hours.

Apply an even coat of exterior-grade, acrylic house paint, using the 3-inch paintbrush for large areas and the 2-inch sash brush for smaller, detailed areas. Follow the same procedure as you did for priming.

Brush in the same direction as the wood grain. Work paint into the small spaces between boards so the entire front porch surface is coated with paint. Allow the first coat to dry for four hours, then apply a second coat.