Tips on Painting Exterior Trim

Right Paint

• Only use paint that is specifically designed for outdoor use. Check the label for the words "exterior paint." The type of surface you are painting on will also play a factor in the paint you select. For instance, if your trim is stucco, you may choose a thick, elastomeric paint. If the paint is wood, an acrylic paint will work well. When purchasing paint, ask a professional about the exterior paint they would recommend for your particular climate.

Preparation

• Just like any other paint job, the right preparation is essential to achieving your desired result. Any trim that can be removed from the building without compromising the structure, such as shutters, should be removed and painted on a flat surface to avoid getting unwanted paint on the rest of the building. Before you paint or prep the surface, be sure the air and building are dry. Wait several days after a heavy rain for excess water and humidity to clear.

Sanding

• Sanding is key to any painting process. Smooth out any imperfections with coarse grit sandpaper. Sanding will not only even your trim's surface, it will help the paint to properly adhere. Repair or replace any trim as needed to ensure a clean, finished look once the paint is dry.

Taping

• Apply painter's tape surrounding the areas that you want to paint. This will prevent the paint from spreading to areas you do not want painted. If you plan on using a spray application for your exterior trim, you should go a step further and hang plastic to cover portions of the building you want to protect. This plastic can be hung with painter's tape and easily removed once the paint has dried.

Painting

• Apply the paint vertically, making long, even strokes over the trim. If paint drips and pools on the trim's surface, smooth it over right away with your paintbrush. Even if the side of the building does not have visible wood grains to follow, it is vital that you always paint in the same direction or these strokes will be visible once the paint has dried.

Finishing Touches

• Depending on how porous your trim is, you may need to add a second coat of paint to the trim. If once the trim dries to see that some areas are drying unevenly, you may need to sand down the area once again and start over. To further protect your painted trim, use a polyurethane sealant designed to withstand outside exposure.