Exterior Painting Prep: What Happens Before the First Coat

The Prep Work That Makes or Breaks a Paint Job

A beautiful exterior paint job starts long before we open a single can of paint. At Hyannis Painting, we spend significant time on preparation because that's what separates a paint job that lasts 2 years from one that lasts 10+ years. Here's what our process looks like before the first coat goes on.

Step 1: Thorough Inspection

We walk the entire property examining every surface. We look for peeling paint, rotting wood, moisture damage, mildew growth, and any structural issues that need attention. We document everything and discuss findings with you before proceeding.

Step 2: Power Washing

All exterior surfaces receive a professional power wash to remove dirt, mildew, loose paint, and contaminants. This ensures proper paint adhesion. We use eco-friendly cleaning solutions safe for your landscaping.

Step 3: Scraping & Sanding

Every loose and flaking paint chip is scraped away. Remaining edges are feather-sanded smooth. Any glossy surfaces are lightly sanded to create a profile for the new paint to grip.

Step 4: Repairs & Priming

Damaged wood is replaced or repaired with epoxy filler. Bare wood and repaired areas receive a high-quality primer. Caulking is applied around windows, doors, and trim to seal gaps and prevent moisture intrusion.

Step 5: Protection

We cover windows, doors, fixtures, landscaping, and any surface that isn't being painted. Your property is treated with the same care we'd give our own homes.

Only after all of this is complete do we begin applying finish coats. It's why our paint jobs last.