Diagnose the failure before choosing preparation
Peeling, blistering, cracks and chalking are observations, not a single diagnosis. Moisture, incompatible coatings, application conditions and surface contamination can all affect the result. Ask what the proposed preparation is intended to correct at each damaged area.
Check leaks, loose material and rotten trim before discussing primer. On older painted surfaces, assess the possibility of lead before sanding or stripping. Health Canada advises against dust- and fume-producing removal methods for lead paint; the preparation plan must account for that condition.
Clean and remove what cannot support a new coat
Choose cleaning suited to the cladding and finish. Some products call for a low-pressure hose and soft brush, not a power washer. Remove residues and let the surface reach the moisture condition required by the coating; two or three sunny days is not a universal drying test.
Loose paint cannot provide a durable base for a new film. Once a suitable removal method is established, take failed coating back to a stable surface, smooth appropriate repair edges and remove dust. Investigate why the old layer detached so the same problem is not simply covered again.
Specify primer, sealant and the finishing window
Primer requirements vary with bare substrate, stains, existing finishes and the coating system. Write down where spot priming or broader priming is included. A primer does not make a wet, rotten or contaminated surface suitable for paint.
Renew only joints intended to be sealed, preserving weeps and cladding drainage. Choose a compatible paintable sealant for joints that will be coated; a silicone product’s flexibility does not establish paint adhesion. Follow the sealant and coating instructions, then allow the specified weather and recoat window before applying the finish.
Technical references
- Benjamin Moore: Exterior painting preparation — Preparation and substrate condition.
- Health Canada: Lead-based paint — Older paint requires assessment before removal.
- Benjamin Moore: Exterior painting conditions — Weather limits and drying depend on the product.
- GE Advanced Silicone 2: Technical data — Silicone flexibility and paintability are different attributes.
Include a preferred date and time
Discuss your exterior project
Select the exterior work and note the current material and repair or replacement needs.
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