Many folks have various structures in the yard that might have been neglected over time such as the playhouses, lawn maintenance storage sheds, workshops, standalone garages or something similar. Wanting to revitalize the structure isn’t as difficult as you might suppose. Even a 130 year old barn can be given a youthful face lift. We at Jeff the Painter would like to share the steps you can do to make your weathered structure beautiful again.

Replace Wet or Dry Rot Areas of Wood

When you are ready to roll up your sleeves and down to get busy, you are going to want to begin with the prep work. Older wood needs a little more TLC. To remove paint from exceptionally older wood, it is optimal to use a paint scraper, and younger wood can be hit with sanding. If the paint is fairly old, keep in mind it could contain lead and caution is advised. Wet rot concerning wood is wood that is damp decaying and soft. Dry rot is wood that is brittle and dry. As you remove the paint, take note of the wet rot or dry rot, these sections will need to be replaced. Larger areas may have to be completely removed and replaced with sections of lap siding. If any wood is exceedingly cracked, warped or twisted, they too should be replaced.

Scrape, Sand & Brush Wood

Following the paint scraping of the old wood off and the excessively damaged wood, you will need to begin the next gruesome task of sanding and brushing. An electric sander can make it easy work and a wire brush is helpful. With your tools the loose fibers can make easy work of them, along with any old paint left behind. Never skip the sanding it removes the rough the wood and it helps remove the junk to help improve the longevity of your outdoor structure.

Apply Caulking

Caulk needs to be applied where necessary and it can prevent water seepage. Invest in a high quality acrylic caulk and apply it to corner joints, seams and trims around doors and windows. Not only can caulk help protect the wood, the overall look well help sharpen the appearance.

Clean Outdoor Wood

Using a pressurized nozzle attachment for the hose, wash the exterior surface down to and remove dirt, mud, sanding shavings, and other debris, it can’t be too clean, the remember the cleaner the better. Any spots and stains that are more stubborn use a brush in those areas.

Prime Before Painting

Might be tempting to skip the primer, but don’t give in. Primer helps protect the wood, and enriches the paint job. Oil based primer is recommended with 2 applications, as well as 2 coats of exterior paint that is formulated for climate in your area.

Interior & Exterior House Painting & More in San Marcos, Vista, Oceanside, Encinitas, Carlsbad & Escondido, California

Jeff the Painter can perform a number of painting services and would happily get your outdoor structure like new again.