Trusted Exterior House Painters
Looking to give your home a makeover? Our skilled exterior house painters can enhance your curb appeal. With extensive experience and a sharp attention to, we excel in painting siding, trim, doors, and more. Allow us to revitalize your home's exterior!
Repainting Composite Smartside Siding
Composite, engineered-wood, and Smartside (brand name) siding and trim are among the most painted materials we encounter. The paint can be smoothly applied with a sprayer without the need for back rolling. According to paint specifications (which we can provide in writing), only one coat is necessary for repaint projects when using premium paints from Sherwin Williams. Don't be misled into thinking that your repaint project needs two coats or that coats are superior to one.
Stucco Surface Painting
Stucco surfaces are quite porous, necessitating additional paint. The application process involves using a sprayer to apply a coat, followed by back rolling to ensure thorough coverage in the crevices. If not done properly, remnants of the old color may show through. It's important to remember that new stucco needs a waiting period for the pH levels to decrease or may require a specialty primer before the topcoat is. Minor cracks can be effectively filled with a high-quality caulk that allows expansion and contraction with the house.
Brick Houses Painted
The topic of painting brick surfaces can be quite divisive; some people love it, while others dislike it. Our primary goal is customer satisfaction. Over the years, we've successfully painted numerous brick homes without any warranty concerns. The process is akin to painting any other type of house, but it does require a masonry primer before applying the top coat. Additionally, due to its porous nature, brick may need extra paint and potentially back rolling, similar to stucco.
Revamping Shake Siding with Paint
Painting shake shingle siding is often one of the most difficult tasks we face. Unfortunately, many homeowners delay this job until the paint starts to peel or flake off. In our region, this siding is typically found on homes built before 1978, raising concerns about potential lead paint. When we arrive to paint these homes, we often encounter significant peeling that leads to voids, multiple layers of old paint, inconsistencies in the orientation of the shakes and wood rot along the roof lines. It's essential to back roll the paint if the grooved side is facing out during the painting process.
Repainting T-111 or Plywood Siding.
Painting plywood or T-111 siding can be quite challenging, much like shake siding. Without regular maintenance and a solid coat of paint, these materials are prone to splitting, lifting, and peeling over time. Additionally, because these materials are often found on older homes with multiple paint layers, peeling can create craters. To effectively paint this type of plywood, we employ a mix of spraying, back rolling, and brushing to ensure that the paint penetrates the crevices. If your home features this siding, expect a shorter lifespan for your paint.
Metal Siding Houses Painted
Metal siding, whether aluminum or another material, can be painted, but additional steps are necessary to maximize the paint's longevity. The painting process for metal siding differs significantly, as it is typically powder coated during manufacturing. Over time, the paint may begin to fade or peel. To prepare for repainting, it's essential to thoroughly pressure wash the surface to eliminate any chalking, followed by sanding away any flaking paint. Finally, applying a primer over the entire house is crucial, as it helps bond the new paint to the old surface effectively.
Cedar or Pine Siding Painting
Painting real wood siding, like cedar beveled siding, is relatively simple. Common challenges include peeling paint and wood rot caused by worn-out caulking. This type of siding is often found on older homes, so lead paint considerations may need to be taken into account. Frequent repainting can result in craters left by peeling paint, and any new wood should be primed before applying the top coat.
Repainting Vinyl Siding
While paint manufacturers offer paints claimed to be safe for vinyl siding, we advise against painting this type of siding altogether. It's not about the paint's quality, but rather the "vinyl safe" color that matters. The main concern is that using an incorrect color can lead to heat absorption, which may warp the vinyl siding. Additionally, doing so would void any existing warranty on the siding. For the above reason(s) we DO NOT PAINT vinyl siding.
What causes the paint on my house to fade or peel?
UV Rays and Your Paint: The Hidden Culprit Behind Fading
Causes of Faded Paint
The science is straightforward: UV rays from the sun initiate a chemical breakdown, leading to the deterioration of pigments responsible for color, which results in oxidation. Increased oxidation means diminished capacity for the paint to absorb UV rays, ultimately leading to a noticeable loss of color and vibrancy.
From a practical perspective, greater sun exposure on your home accelerates damage. Moreover, darker colors absorb more UV rays, fading more pronounced over time. When selecting paint, consider longevity over trendiness to mitigate fading.
How to Delay Fading
The key lies in the quality of pigments, binders, and additives in your paint. Higher quality ingredients result in better durability. Paint contains solids that provide color (pigments) and those that enhance adhesion to surfaces (binders).
When discussing high-quality paint, what truly differentiates one from another? It's not merely the price or marketing; it's the concentration of solids in the paint that typically determines its overall quality.
House Movement and Your Paint: The Hidden Culprit Behind Flaking Paint
Causes of Paint Flaking
In simple terms: paint flakes appear when it lifts from the underlying surface. This can happen due to the expansion and contraction of wood caused by changes in temperature and humidity, which affects the coating.
From a practical perspective: flaking may occur if the preparation work is inadequate. Inexperienced painters might mistakenly believe that pressure washing alone is sufficient. Paints that claim to include primer are not effective; a standalone primer should be used before applying the top coat.
How to Delay Paint Flaking
From a real life viewpoint: since you can't control house movement, it's crucial to properly prepare any areas of paint that show signs of failure by scraping or sanding. Using the right paint will allow it to expand with the wood beneath, preventing fissures that lead to flaking.
In practical terms: it's advisable to scrape and lightly sand all existing flaking paint by hand. Avoid using a washer, as it may cause more damage. Apply a primer followed by the appropriate amount of paint to accommodate movement without cracking.
Moisture and Your Paint: The Hidden Culprit Behind Peeling Paint
Causes of Paint Peeling
In simple terms: peeling paint occurs when the paint loses its adhesion to the underlying surface. This often happens when a wet substrate swells beneath the paint, leading to loosening, cracking, and eventual flaking.
Understanding the issue: moisture is usually the main culprit behind peeling paint. This can arise from failed caulking, blocked gutters, or painting over damp surfaces due to rain, pressure washing, condensation, or dew. In poorly designed homes, surfaces placed too close to the ground can also draw moisture from the ground.
How to Prevent Paint Peeling
In simple terms: check the moisture level of the surface with a moisture meter before to ensure it's within a safe range. All materials contain some moisture, but it’s crucial that it remains at a safe level, as approximately 50% of paint consists of water.
Practical advice: avoid painting on the same day you pressure wash. Make sure gutters are dry and not dripping during application. If the wood surface is damaged, replace it and apply primer if needed. On cooler mornings, wait until later in the day to paint to prevent issues with condensation and dew.
Key Concerns San Antonio Homeowners Consider Before Hiring a Painting Contractor
FINAL PRICE WILL BE MORE THAN QUOTE
Many homeowners are concerned about unexpected costs and budget overruns. They fear that the contractor might provide a low initial estimate but add extra charges for unforeseen issues or materials.
QUALITY OF WORK
Homeowners worry that the painting contractor may not deliver the desired quality of work. They fear that the paint job might be sloppy, uneven, or not up to their expectations.
CONTRACTOR TRUSTWORTHINESS
Homeowners often fear hiring a contractor who is not trustworthy. They worry about contractors who may cut corners, use low-quality materials, or engage in unethical business practices.
DAMAGE TO PROPERTY
There is a fear that the painting process could damage their property. This includes concerns about paint spills, drips, or accidents that might harm furniture, flooring, or other belongings.
WON'T HONOR WARRANTY
Homeowners worry that they are promised the world while being courted for their business but once an issue occurs they will be forgotten. Also some companies make submitting warranty claims a hassle that ends up becoming a stressful situation.
RELIABILITY AND PUNCTUALITY
Homeowners worry that the painting contractor might not be reliable or punctual. Delays in starting or completing the project can disrupt their daily lives and schedules.
The Significance of Exterior
Painting in San Antonio
Revamping your home's exterior with a fresh coat of paint might seem daunting, but it’s one of the most fulfilling home improvement projects you can undertake. Here are some advantages of regularly painting your home's exterior:
Protection: The main function of exterior paint is to shield your home from harsh weather conditions like rain, snow, wind, and sunlight. It serves as a protective barrier, helping to prevent water damage, rot, and other issues.
Aesthetics: A new paint job can transform your home’s appearance and enhance its curb appeal. A beautifully painted house creates a positive first impression for visitors, potential buyers, or neighbors.
Value: An updated exterior can boost your home's market value. If you're considering selling, a well-maintained paint job can attract buyers and increase your resale price.
Services for Exterior Painting We Offer
Exterior Painting Services We Perform
Standard Exterior Painting Process
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How much does it cost to paint the exterior of a house?Please check out our 'How much will exterior painting cost' page for a detailed breakdown.
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Is it better to spray or brush and roll when painting the exterior of a house ?Brushing and rolling is more physically demanding than spraying. Due to the roller possibly skipping after in use for a while, it requires 2 coats for an even looking finish. Have you ever tried rolling paint on an interior wall? Then you know that you have to go back and cover up that first pass to get an even finish. Spraying allows for a more even application which makes the job move faster. Following manufacturer instructions on sprayer tip sizes, the proper thickness of paint can be applied without any worries. If working with a painting company that knows their craft, either process will work just fine. Keep in mind that a reputable painting company will stand behind their workmanship with a lengthy warranty period. That's what you are really seeking--peace of mind that the paint job will last. Anything below 5 years may not be worth the investment.
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How long should an exterior paint job last?It all depends on how much UV rays your house is exposed to and if you have proper water drainage. If you look at your house you will see that it fades unevenly. The back side may look worse than the front or vice-versa. You may also see around gutters serious discoloration and possibly wood rot. When selecting the grade of paint, it's important you select a grade that's going to hold up to the elements as long as possible. It may cost you a little more upfront but it will last longer on your house. Would you rather be painting every 5 years or every 8-10 years?
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Is primer required to paint the exterior of a house?Primer should be used on: exposed bare wood when the existing paint is not sound metal siding or surfaces Think of primer as glue that bonds the surface being painted and the new paint.
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How long does it take to complete an exterior house painting project?Most exterior paint projects, depending on the size of the house, take about 4 days to complete. If there's wood rot repairs involved you need to add another 1-2 days. During winter months the temperatures should be hovering at about 40 degres when the paint is being applied and up 3 hours afterwards. Most high quality paints today have an application rating of 35 degrees.
Why We Stand Out as the Best Option
We understand that painting your home's exterior is a significant undertaking, which is why you won’t pay until the job is finished.
Our track record speaks itself, so be sure to check out our Google Reviews.
As a veteran-owned business based in San Antonio, your support helps us contribute to our local community instead of a franchise in another state.
We are fully licensed and insured, and we’re happy to revisit your exterior painting project even a year later.
We take pride in our workmanship, offering a 5-year standard warranty, the best in the area.