Are you looking to have your residence painted? Save on costs with these essential tips!

Few things bring more life to a room than a fresh coat of paint. Whether you are looking to paint the interior rooms of your home or the entire exterior, you are probably looking to accomplish it for a reasonable price. In this post, we will cover top tips for saving on residential painting!

How to Save on Residential Painting

With these easy cost-saving tips, you can paint your home on a budget that works for you!

Find a Great Painting Company

There are many steps that you can take to save a little extra money on a residential paint job, but few options will offer more savings than choosing the right company. Any time that you work with a great painting company, you can rest easy knowing that you are getting as much high-quality work as possible for a good price.

A high-quality company is not necessarily the cheapest, but it can offer cost savings over time. When you call in a team that is going to do a great job, you are increasing the lifespan of the paint job. High-quality work from a great company will always outlast work from a company that is moving quickly or not taking as many steps to ensure quality. Partnering with a high-performing painting company can help you save and make it less likely that you will need to touch up your paint in the near future.

Compare Prices

When it comes to saving on painting work, it is always a good idea to compare prices. This is an excellent way to pick a company that will give you great work at an affordable price.

Comparing prices as a homeowner is a process that takes special consideration. In most cases, you will not want to work with a group offering a price that is significantly higher than others in the area. However, you also want to avoid going with the cheapest option a lot of the time. While some exceptions may apply, painting is one field where you often get what you pay for.

If the paint job price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Look for a company that offers a reasonable price and has an excellent portfolio instead.

Choose Your Paint Carefully

Paint types may all serve a similar purpose, but they are not all made the same way. Some paint types may come at a much higher price than the other options. If you are looking to lower costs, it is often best to avoid the more expensive types of paint available on the market.

When you are working with a residential painting company, they should be completely transparent about the paint they will be using. You don’t need to be a paint expert yourself–just ask them what kind of paint options they have that come in at a lower price point without compromising quality. It is absolutely possible to get great paint for a low price.

Determine if You Can Do Certain Parts of the Process Yourself

There are several steps that go into painting a home. With some companies, this means there may be opportunities to save. Although it is often best to allow professional painters to handle everything for your home, it is sometimes possible to cut down on labor by doing certain parts of the process yourself.

When you contact the company you want to work with, simply ask them if there is anything you can do to cut down the total price. They may be open to you doing some of the more simple tasks. Not all companies support this–and some may even charge extra if you do–so be sure to ask before you assume.

Look for Specials and Deals

Painting companies, like any other local business, are very likely to run promotions, deals, and specials. If you schedule your residential painting appointment at the right time, you may be able to get a truly amazing deal on the work.

How a residential painting company offers deals will differ. However, many of them offer seasonal promotions or even holiday promotions. These opportunities can come with significant savings, and it allows you to support the company at a time that is convenient for them too. Before you schedule anything, ask them what deals they offer and if they have any upcoming promotions that might benefit you. It never hurts to ask!

Paint Your Home Over Time

Improving your home costs a significant amount of money if you do it all at once. This is why many people choose to renovate their homes slowly over time. This is absolutely an effective way to lower the costs of painting and make the process more manageable.

To do this, you will have to pick and choose what parts of the home you want to prioritize at a time. It may mean painting your kitchen when you put in your new refrigerator–or it might mean prioritizing your living room over bedrooms.

Keep Your Designs Simple

The intricacy of your paint job can have a big impact on the scope of the project. As you might expect, a more intricate paint job will automatically warrant more work than a simple one. Understanding how design changes will impact the final scope of a project can help you to find a project at a price that works for your wallet.

When you are deciding what will and will not impact the scope of the project, it is always easiest to ask the painting company directly. You might think that something will impact the price when it really will not. Asking can help you to decide what design options will be appropriate for your budget if you do decide to do something extra.

The Takeaway

When it comes to residential painting, Denver is the land of opportunity. Local Denver painters are offering great work to homeowners all around the Denver metro area. To learn more about how to get a great paint job for an affordable price, contact us today to get started!

You will see hundreds of color variations and examples in the color shade cards in a paint store when you are choosing the best color for your house painting project. Picking the best color isn’t only selecting the color that satisfies your taste, there are other factors too. 

The best part about this is that experienced and skilled house painting professionals are always on hand to help. When you feel you need help choosing paint colors, getting assistance is quite easy, whether you get help by searching online yourself or talking with a professional home painting contractor. You can also get a customized color palette created by a painting expert.

Here are some insights that you can consider when thinking about picking the correct hues that compliment you and your whole household. Below are a couple of tips that you can retain in your memory when searching for the best color for your residential painting project.

Get Some Inspiration

You must be inspired right from the start with a few color ideas that you adore. It could be a color you saw in an online magazine. Look at various pictures from architect magazines, residential painting companies, and interior designers, selecting your preferred color choice. You can also pick a common factor that you like best, mainly when it comes to colors. For example, you can pick two colors from the same hue or two colors that are polar opposites.

Coordinate Your Colors

House painting can be intense work, but it only stays interesting when you pick the right colors. Consider your color plan and coordinate. With the right combination of colors, you can renovate your house at an affordable price. Coordinate the colors with all that is around you. With the correct color flow, you can be sure that you get the vibe you desire in your residence.

Intensify the Color You Love

You don’t have to start from scratch when choosing your house’s colors. If you have a current color that you love, pick a color with similar undertones. Your goal is to coordinate colors flawlessly.

In addition, you want to think about the colors you choose. Your color choice should inspire some sort of emotion. Setting the mood you crave for your room will help you theorize the complete thought of what you desire, which in turn helps you get the look you would like to have.

The Best for Residential Painting Projects in Denver

Regardless of the type of residential painting project, we can come up with the best solutions for your home paint job. As the top company for residential painting in Denver, you can be confident knowing your house painting is in good hands from beginning to end. Get in touch with us to add new color and life to your home with a fresh coat of paint.

The best way to avoid the most common paint problems is to understand them before tackling this can-be-intimidating project.

Color is essential in defining a room – it evokes a feeling, mood, or response from all who enter. So, it is natural for you to want to give your space a makeover to best share your unique vibe. But you don't want to do it at the risk of a poor outcome.

So understanding the pitfalls first – before you grab a brush or roller – will help you get the beautiful results you deserve.

painting baseboards yourself

What Are the Most Common Paint Problems That DIYers Experience?

Painting looks easy at face value, especially on social sites like Pinterest. But the reality is that it takes a good bit of practice, know-how, and tons of prep work to get a flawless finish.

Here are five of the most common paint problems Colorado Painting has experienced.

Now that you know some of the difficulties some people experience in painting, we can look at the causes. More importantly, we can talk about how to fix them.

What Causes Paint Cracks or Fissures?

Cracks in your paint job mean that the paint did not adhere to the surface correctly.

That's usually the result of three possible reasons:

How to fix cracked paint:

You may ask yourself this question: Can you paint over cracking paint? Unfortunately, adding more paint over this poor surface will not fix your issue.

But here's the good news.

Although the repair is time-consuming, it is a relatively simple problem to fix.

  1. Sand the affected areas to smooth the surface
  2. Vacuum up all grit and debris--then give the walls a quick wipe with a damp (not wet) cloth.
  3. Apply primer (if you skipped that step); allow the primer to dry completely (check the manufacturer's label)
  4. Reapply the paint.

flaked and cracked paint

What Causes Paint to Peel or Flake?

Flaky paint usually results from using an old or low-quality primer or paint.

Avoid the urge to "use up" old paint in the garage from a decade ago just because you spent money on it – this will only lead to more headache and paint later.

How to fix flaky paint:

Like the previous problem, you cannot take shortcuts or hide this poor finish.

Here's what to do:

  1. Use a scraper to gently separate flakes. They will likely start to come off in large peels.
  2. Sand the surface to make it smooth again.
  3. Vacuum any sanding particles and damp wipe the walls. Let them dry completely (it takes just a few moments).
  4. Apply a new, good-quality primer; let it cure according to the manufacturer's instructions.
  5. Use unexpired, good paint to reapply.

What Causes Paint Bubbling and Blistering?

Similarly to one of the previous common paint problems – paint cracking – pain bubbling indicates that the product did not adhere well to the surface.

Generally, this comes from one of these two things:

The paint may somewhat grip to the surface in most places, but other areas may have too much "slip," and that is where bubbles or blisters form.

How to fix bubbly or blistered paint:

If your wall was clean at the start of your project, you might have oil-based paint underneath – hire Colorado Commercial & Residential Painting for professional results. We have the correct bonding primer to switch from older oil-based paints to modern-day latex and the experience to give you the best finish. It is one of the common paint problems our pros see in mid-century or older homes.

However, if you have an oil-splattered or dirty wall on your hands, you can fix this problem yourself.

Here's how:

  1. Sand the affected areas to create a smooth surface.
  2. Vacuum the sanding and paint debris and use a damp cloth to wipe down all the wall surfaces to remove all dirt, cobwebs, oils (especially cooking oils in a kitchen), or any other barriers to adhesion. Let the walls dry after your wipe-down.
  3. Apply a high-quality primer; let it cure per the manufacturer's instructions.
  4. Reapply your paint color of choice.

dripping paint

What Causes Running or Dripping Paint?

Paint runs or drips indicate that you loaded too much product into the brush or roller – one of the most common paint mistakes for an enthusiastic DIYer.

Fortunately, most notice this issue pretty quickly. Stop as soon as you notice it and address it immediately.

How to fix running or dripping paint:

  1. Stop using the overloaded paint brush – grab a clean one.
  2. If the run is still wet, you can try to pick the paint up and feather it out, blending it with the rest of the surface.
  3. If the paint has already dried, you should wait until all the paint in the room dries completely. This patience will help you avoid an altogether new mess.
  4. Sand down the run.
  5. Vacuum any debris and damp-wipe the wall – allow it a few minutes to dry.
  6. Repaint the wall – don't panic if the paint appears darker than the nearby surfaces. Remember, the surrounding area is dry, and the tone changes.

How to grab the correct amount of paint with your brush:

What Causes a Poorly-Textured Wall Finish?

Poor texture arises from poor preparation, and it's usually the same culprit – a dirty or gritty wall. Some inexperienced painters get so excited to start their projects that they don't even consider cleaning first.

This common paint problem is similar to bubbling and blistering – and you can fix it the same way.

  1. Sand the surfaces to create smoothness.
  2. Vacuum and damp-wipe down every nook and cranny (not too wet!) and let it dry.
  3. Apply a good primer; let it cure according to the manufacturer's label.
  4. Reapply the paint.

Avoid Most Common Paint Problems with a Professional Painter

Painting looks easy when you look at the DIY sharers on Pinterest – but it does take practice, knowledge, and excellent preparation.

If you want a flawless finish that will impress your visitors, you might find it more convenient to rely on the Colorado Commercial & Residential Painting professionals. We will give you the luxe look you desire.

The exterior of your home can make a huge impact on not only the visual appeal of your house, but also the way it feels. The right colors can make you feel comfortable, cozy and satisfied with how your house looks. That’s why it’s so important to choose the best exterior accent colors for your white house.

exterior accent colors for house

Top Accent Colors For The Exterior Of A White House

We know just how hard it can be to decide on a good color when there are so many options out there.

Here are our top six accent colors for your home.

Modern White

Modern white is a great color choice for a white house, especially if you're looking to give it an updated look.

This shade of white will make your home seem fresh and new without being too trendy. If you have an older home that's in need of some love and care, Modern White is the perfect way to clean up its facade while still preserving the integrity of its original design.

Unlike other shades of white that are often used as neutral colors (such as linen white), modern white can be paired with just about anything—from bright blues like Bluebonnet or Azure Cotton to rich greens like Emerald Forest or Amethyst Orchid—and still look good on any palette. This makes Modern White a great option for those who want their homes' exterior paint accent colors to complement their interior decorating schemes rather than clash with them.

Crisp Grey

While a crisp grey may sound like it would be more suited to the interior of a home, it's actually a great exterior paint color. The color can be used to create an interesting contrast between the white exterior and crisp grey siding or trim, which creates an interesting effect.

This accent color is also neutral enough to work with any type of house, especially a white home, but still has some contrast for those who want their house to stand out from others on their street. It is especially attractive when used on homes that have large windows or a lot of natural light coming into the home because they help offset some of its darker tones.

The gray family of colors includes shades like dove, silver, ash and slate. These are all neutral colors that work well with any other shade because they offer enough contrast to offset each other without being too bright or dark.

Beige Neutrals

Beige is a neutral color that works well with just about any other colors as an accent color. Beige can also be used as a primary exterior color on its own or paired with another neutral, such as gray or cream. It's also a good choice for homes with a lot of natural light because it won't reflect too much heat back into the house. The main drawback of beige is that it can look bland and boring if you don't have any accent colors on your home to break up the color. This is especially true when used as a primary exterior paint color because it won't give your home much personality or visual interest.

green accent color on white house

Forest Green

Forest green is a dark green color that looks great as an accent or background color. It's a neutral, almost yellowish-green, which gives it an earthy feel. Forest green is lighter than hunter green and can be used on its own in smaller spaces. If you want to use more than one color on your home, this would be a good choice for the area where people will be most of the time (patios/ decks) because it's less bold than many other green accent colors for your home.

Earthy Browns

If you're looking for a bold color that will bring warmth and texture to any home, Earthy Browns are one of your best options. In addition to the rich hues they offer, they also have a variety of undertones which can be used to create different looks. For example, yellows and taupes tend to be brighter and warmer while browns with red undertones are more muted and cooler in feel.

Earthy browns are especially well-suited for modern homes because their neutral tones allow them to flow seamlessly with other elements in a space without overpowering them or distracting from other aspects of design—the perfect choice if you have several different styles competing for attention!

Navy Blue

Navy blue is one of the best exterior accent colors for a white house or any light-colored house, as it contrasts nicely, like forest green does.

If you have a large house with lots of windows, navy blue is an excellent choice as an exterior accent color. The dark color will make the outside seem darker and smaller, which makes it appear more open and inviting. This color is perfect for properties that have a lot of outdoor space or large lawns. The dark hue may be too overwhelming to some if used throughout your exterior design scheme.

The downside is that navy works best with larger houses because it makes them appear smaller than they actually are! So if you live in an apartment building or condo townhouse in Colorado but still want something bolder, navy is among the best exterior accent colors for white homes.

Which Accent Color is Best for Your House?

Choosing the right exterior paint color and accents for your home is crucial. Here are some tips to help you choose the right exterior paint color:

We hope that this article has given you some inspiration for your next paint job. Whether you choose to go with a bold color or one of our more subtle suggestions, remember that the most important thing is to pick something that you love and make sure it’s going to last.

commercial exterior painting

Colorado Commercial & Residential Painting Can Help

Colorado Commercial & Residential Painting (CCRP) is a highly rated Colorado painting contractor that has over 39 years of industry experience within both Residential and Commercial properties.

A primary focus of Colorado Commercial & Residential Painting is treating its customers with respect, integrity, and clear communication. The painting industry is full of contractors ranging from independent contractors to large-scale companies and we fall right in the middle. We are here to provide a professional service that you would expect from any large company, but with the customer service and support of a small local business. Our prices are competitive and we strive to exceed your expectations.

Let us take the pain out of the painting and show you how maintaining and beautifying your home or property can be uncomplicated and worry-free. We know how to help you pick the best exterior accent color for your white home (or any color).

As you’ve been getting home from work lately, you’ve probably realized that your home’s once vibrant color is starting to look a little shabby. You are itching for an opportunity to get some fresh paint on ye ol' home. But the heat! It’s been too hot outside lately to even consider painting it. Then you start thinking, "Maybe this is a good time to paint my home." What exactly is the best temperature to paint the exterior of your house?

Finding the best temperature to paint your home’s exterior is fundamental for a quality, work of art kind of a job. So, when is it too hot or too cold to paint your home’s exterior?

These are a couple of house painting questions many homeowners ask themselves throughout the fall and mid year months.

Whether you are tackling the project or are hiring someone, these are a few things to consider on when painting the exterior of your house.

types of exterior paint

Which Paints Are Best?

Like any big home improvement decision, you will want to do some studying to determine the best paint decision for your home. Prior to picking your favorite paint color, you’ll want to understand what sort of paint your home really needs. Some paints dry faster than others, and some paints can endure the weather changes a bit better than others. Both of these are big factors to consider when thinking about time and temperature, as Colorado can sometimes be unpredictable, weather-wise.

Latex Paint

Latex paint has been a common choice of paint since the 1950s. Latex paint is often water-based which is good for the environment and yourself.

Latex paint is strong, mildew-resistant, and adequately thick enough to usually get the job done in one coat. Latex paint is easier to apply and has a much quicker drying time when compared to other paints.

Acrylic Paint

Acrylic paint can withstand direct sunlight far better than latex. The chemicals used in the paint gives more elasticity which allows acrylic paint to expand and contract as temperatures change.

While latex paint is water-based, acrylic is chemical-based which makes it harder to fix if a mistake arises.

Oil-Based Paint

Oil-based paint dries to a smooth, hard surface that stands up well to the Colorado weather. Oil-based paints are made from a strong resin which makes the paint incredibly durable to sun damage.

The downside to using oil-based paints is that they are more likely to fade or crack than acrylic and latex paints. Oil-based paints are not widely used today because of the hazardous fumes it emits when wet.

Oil-based paints are also very difficult to get clean once spilled on something it wasn’t supposed to.

painting exterior house in hot temperatures

The Effects of Temperature On Paint

The problem with outdoor temperatures being either too high or too low is that your paint might not bind to other materials properly.

Heat and Warm Temperatures

Direct sunlight and heat can affect paint drying and curing. Hot temperatures mean the paint dries almost instantly when applied.

Latex paint is water-based and needs sufficient time for the water to naturally evaporate for the paint to cure. When the paint doesn’t cure properly, it can lead to bubbling, cracking, or peeling of your paint once it dries.

Cold/Freezing Temperatures

Painting your house at lower temperatures will greatly impact your paint’s drying time and overall consistency.

So, if you are trying to brave the cold and paint your house, don’t paint outside when it’s below 35 degrees Fahrenheit. If done at lower temperatures, it will cause your paint to cure incorrectly. The results may leave you with ugly bumps/bubbles in your paint when spring arrives. Worse yet, it can lower the lifespan of your paint job.

Painting in Wet Conditions

Colorado is infamous for its unconventional and eccentric weather patterns. It can rain, snow, or hail just about out of nowhere sometimes.

As a general rule, paint should only be applied to dry surfaces. So even after the rain, snow, or hail; you need to allow plenty of time for the exterior of your home to dry before applying any paint. This allows the paint to not get washed off.

If there is any precipitation in the forecast, you’ll need to hold off on painting. Typically, you’ll need 4-8 hours of dry time (minimum) after it rains for things to completely dry out.

painting exterior house in fall

The Best Temperature To Paint The Exterior of Your House

In Colorado, the best time of year to paint your house is between late April and early October. Temperatures between 50-70 degrees Fahrenheit are going to be the most optimal. That being said, there is some leeway on temperature, with about 10 degrees on both sides of the spectrum.

Although there are great days and temperatures to paint the exterior of your house in just about every month of the year, the window of opportunity really begins in late April. This will allow you to avoid most of the precipitation associated with our spring season.

The mid-summer is another one of the best times as far as temperature goes to paint your home in Colorado. With low precipitation, warm temperatures, and plenty of sunshine, the season allows your paint to dry and cure as it was meant to.

The window to paint the exterior of your home closes in early October. After this time of year (for the most part), the temperature drops too low for painting.

Nothing sets the scene for summertime fun quite like a beautiful deck at your home. Wooden decks yearn for barbecues and family and friend get-togethers. You are a part of a glorious American tradition. Having a deck adds a layer of personality and life to the exterior of your home. Your deck is an extension of the rest of your home. So when you see peeling paint and washed-out stain on the wood, it can put the brakes on the summertime celebrations.

As I’m sure you’ve realized, having a deck at your home requires a decent amount of maintenance to remain a polished-looking beauty. Wood can become painful to look at if left unprotected in the elements. Your deck will warp, crack, and twist without the proper protection. The sun isn’t especially friendly to your deck either. Ultra-violet rays discolor the deck over time, whether it’s unprotected, painted, or stained. The sun is also responsible for the breakdown of the wood’s lignin. Lignin is the natural glue that holds its fibers together.

Since you’ve noticed the paint is peeling and just starting to lose its overall shine, you start asking yourself, should I paint my deck?

Whether you choose to paint or stain your deck, the decision comes down to the look you want, what kind of protection you need, and how much time and energy you want to spend on applying the paint or stain. Here’s a breakdown of the differences between painting and staining your deck.

Whether you decide to paint or stain your deck depends on the appearance you desire, the level of protection you require, and how much time and effort you want to put into the painting or staining process.

Should I Paint My Deck?

Prepping Your Deck For Painting or Staining

No matter which route you ultimately decide to choose, the absolute first step in the process is to prep your deck. This includes sweeping away any trace amounts of dirt and debris, scrubbing the wood of your deck with a deck-specific cleaner, and smoothing away rough patches with sandpaper.

Ensure that any rotten wood boards are fixed and replaced, that all nails and screws are tight, and that any holes are filled with exterior-grade wood filler. For paint to adhere correctly and for stains to cure, a clean surface is necessary.

Clean your deck, then allow it to completely dry. You will need to strip and sand your deck if it is already painted and seems old from use and abuse.

Painting Your Deck

There are many reasons why you should paint your deck, but be aware that by doing so, the paint hides the distinctive details in the wood that give it character. Painting your deck has more color options and lasts longer than staining.

Many homeowners like the uniform appearance that paint offers. If your deck is especially old and worn, this might be a nice alternative. Paint totally conceals the grain of the wood, whereas stain seeps into the wood, giving your deck a tidy, sharp appearance. If your deck is more aged, paint can conceal faults (such as cracks and other blemishes) far better than stain, giving it the appearance of a brand-new deck.

By selecting an organic color scheme, such as taupes, browns, sand-colored tones, and shades of green that mirror the great outdoors, you can still get a natural effect with paint even though you are hiding the wood grain.

Because of its consistent application, paint provides your deck a more streamlined, minimalist aesthetic for more contemporary homes, whereas stains allow a wood's subtleties and differences to shine through. Additionally, there are additional color options with paints, and you may even choose a paint.

Painting your deck

When selecting paint, you will have two options:

Oil-based paint
These paints offer moisture protection and frequently have extended shelf lives. They are more resistant to normal wear and tear than latex because of their strength. Oil-based paints often provide a smooth finish and have good surface adherence.

Latex paint
The ideal places to utilize latex paints are in environments with higher temperatures since they resist UV fading. These paints dry faster than oil-based paints, emit less smell, and are resistant to cracking and chipping.

Pros of Painting Your Deck

 Cons of Painting Your Deck

Prepping Your Deck For Painting or Staining

Staining Your Deck

Your deck is shielded from the elements by staining it, preserving and enhancing the wood’s original, natural beauty. You may emphasize wood's distinctive qualities and lovely grain. For your deck, you'll probably choose a clear sealer or a semi-transparent stain, but stains can provide a lot of options:

Solid Stains

Solid stains hide the majority of the wood's natural features, much like with paint. It produces a darker, more uniform appearance.

Semi-transparent Stains

Semi-transparent stains offer a hint of color while letting the wood's distinctive qualities and patterns show through. They also offer weather-proofing and UV protection.

Clear Wood Preserves

This kind of stain works best on decks made of beautiful wood, including rich cedar and redwood, where you want to preserve the wood's natural color and highlight its beauty. To prevent the wood from fading over time, certain transparent wood preservatives provide UV protection. To prevent the wood from growing mold and mildew, the majority also contain fungicide. Additionally, they have less wax than a transparent water repellent or sealer.

Pros of Staining Your Deck

Cons of Staining Your Deck

Cracks are not filled by staining. A wooden deck can have defects, small holes, and grooves filled with paint. Because stain is thinner than paint and won't do much to cover cracks and splinters, you can't rely on it as a repair technique.

Have you ever walked through your neighborhood and said to yourself, “Oh, I love that fence!” or, “That house could use more landscaping,” or even, “Why on Earth would they pick that color?!” Us, too. You might not have realized it before, but these features of a house have actually been coined as a phrase: curb appeal. Here are some ideas on how to add curb appeal to your home (within a budget).

how to add curb appeal to home

What is “Curb Appeal?”

Curb appeal is the initial impression or the description of the feeling you get as you glance at a house, take in its appearance, and maybe even imagine what it might be like to live there and what you would do differently, if it were your own. With curb appeal, the options are endless and fun to imagine as you cruise past the neighbors and take it all in.

If you’re a homeowner on the market, understanding why it’s something that should be on your radar has never been more important.

What Are Some Ways to Add Curb Appeal to My Home? 30+ Ideas!

Adding curb appeal to your home can be as expensive or inexpensive as you want it to be.

Here are a few of the improvements you can make to your home, all depending on how far you wish to take your renovations:

  1. Trim the hedges. No one likes an overgrown bush!
  2. Have a seating area. Patio empty? Throw a pretty Adirondack chair out front!
  3. Add new house numbers.
  4. Re-paint your house number on your curb.
  5. Trim your trees. Especially if you’re in a coastal area – those palms need tending!
  6. Add flower boxes under your windows.
  7. Paint your front door.
  8. Stain your fence a new color.
  9. Add lights to your walkway or driveway.
  10. Create symmetry in your plant and furniture décor.
  11. Add a container garden for more variety.
  12. Add shutters.
  13. Clean out or replace gutters.
  14. Check and fix up rust spots.
  15. Add a sculpture to your yard.
  16. Add potted plants or cacti.
  17. Add a bird bath.
  18. Power wash your driveway and sidewalks.
  19. De-weed your lawn and walkway.
  20. Upgrade or replace railings that have deteriorated.
  21. Add outdoor light fixtures, such as lamps.
  22. Hide you’re a/c unit with a fence.
  23. Add a seasonal wreath to your door.
  24. Add a bench to your patio with cute cushions.
  25. Put a catchy welcome mat at your door.
  26. Hang artwork or a sign with a welcoming quote.
  27. Put up your garbage bins – in garage or behind a fence is ideal!
  28. Paint door trim.
  29. Refresh window panes.
  30. Hang a bird feeder from your tree or place one in your lawn!
  31. Plant flowers along your walkway.
  32. Install a new door knocker that adds flare.
  33. Tile your doorstep.
  34. Upgrade the mailbox – there are tons of fun options out there!
  35. Have your roof professionally cleaned.

boost curb appeal

How to Improve On Your Home

First step: Take a walk around your house with fresh eyes. Try to look at your home as a neighbor or passing stranger might. What is outdated? What needs to be mended? Are there any major projects you’ve been putting off that would help your house reach its full potential for potential buyers?

Second: take into account what your budget is for these kinds of fixes. Some are as cheap as simple yard work, while others can cost hundreds. It’s up to you how much effort you’re willing to put in, but there are plenty of crafty approaches to managing your curb appeal without breaking the bank.

Third: make a plan of attack and get to work. Decide what you can and can’t live without doing and create a plan for obtaining materials, deciding days of dedicated labor time and watch as your masterpiece unfolds.

Our Favorite Home Improvements

With all of this being said, there are a few options from the list above that we highly recommend, all with one common denominator: paint.

Paint is the most aesthetically pleasing and effective way to dress up your home's appearance – inside and out – and achieve results that provide prospective buyers and neighbors alike with the wow-factor you want!

If nothing else, we strongly suggest recruiting professional help for all your painting needs.

home improvement ideas

What Color Should I Paint My House?

Deciding what color you want to paint your house, window, trim, or any other feature of your home is almost as important as deciding to paint itself. Choosing an unappealing or distracting color could be worse than not painting at all.

Below are a few recommended tones and palette trending that you can use to freshen up the exterior of your house:

Whatever tone you end up going with, we strongly recommend hiring a trained professional that has experience rather than attempting to re-paint without any prior experience.

Painting Is the Ultimate ROI When Renovating Your House

Painting your home will always add curb appeal and more value. It may be an initial investment with a pricey cost up front, but the return is worth the initial spend. On average, repainting nets a 152% return on investment.

Even if you don’t want to paint the exterior of your home, picking a weekend to repaint even one room of your house holds high ROI for your listing. Repainting interior walls increases home value by an average of 5% and nets an ROI of 107%.

Painting is always a good idea if you notice any of these signs before listing:

Curb appeal is the instant upgrade to your home’s first impression that could be the problem solver to a long and tedious journey in selling your home.

Exterior paint jobs are a big task, so you want to make sure they last as long as they can. A home improvement project of this scale requires careful thought, specific preparation, and proper maintenance to ensure its longevity.

home exterior paint

Here are some factors that affect the lifespan of your exterior paint:

Home Materials

There is a range in which exterior paint lasts and this is because not all homes are made with the same material. Here are some common exterior materials:

Wood

Homes with a wood exterior will often see a paint job that lasts five to seven years. Wood naturally ages which can cause the painted surface to fade or crack. Wood sidings will often require frequent paint jobs because of their vulnerability to moisture and the elements.

Brick

A well-done paint job on brick homes can last 15-20 years when maintained properly and in optimal conditions. Refreshing your brick exterior with a fresh coat of paint can provide additional protection from the elements by acting as a sealant, protecting your home from precipitation and other harsh weather conditions. Additionally, painted brick is easy to keep clean, all you need is an occasional power wash.

Vinyl

If done properly, homes with vinyl sidings can see paint last up to ten years. Vinyl siding is considered one of the lower-maintenance options and doesn’t require regular repainting. However, if you spot any signs of mold, mildew, debris, or other buildups, make sure it is properly removed and allow the surface to dry completely before applying paint.

Stucco

Paint lasts an average of seven to ten years with a stucco exterior because it is made of a combination of cement, sand, and limestone. A fresh coat of paint on a stucco interior can protect your home from moisture and prevent the growth of mold or mildew.

Paint Prep

Properly preparing your home for an exterior paint job can increase the lifespan and durability of your paint. Failing to prep can result in bubbling, cracking, or making the color less vibrant. Prepping your home for an exterior paint job can include pressure washing to remove lifted paint and caulking or sealing any cracks and gaps, or holes. You want to make sure paint is going on a smooth and clean surface and that all imperfections are repaired and treated.

Choose the right paint and primer

Choosing the right paint is crucial when preparing for a paint job. The wrong paint can end in poor results and require significant time and money to fix. Acrylic-latex paint is often recommended for exterior application because of its versatility and is less likely to blister. However, if you live in areas with a wet climate, it’s recommended to use oil-based paint to repel and resist wear and abrasion.

Additionally, raw unpainted surfaces require the right primer. The purpose of primer is to provide a base coat for the layer of exterior paint to adhere. The type of primer you use will depend on which top coat you use, so it’s best to consult a professional on what is the right paint and primer for your home’s exterior material.

When choosing paint, homeowners must decide on a color. Not many know that the color of your exterior paint can also affect its lifespan. Cooler colors lead to less heat insulation while darker colors retain more heat and can lead to premature breakage.

exterior paint on wood

Extreme Weather and Exterior Paint

Climate plays a significant role in how long your exterior paint will last. In Colorado, we see hot summers and cold summers and experience large temperature differences throughout the day. So, an exterior painting project can be tricky.

If your home is often exposed to direct sunlight, the paint will show faster signs of deterioration such as fading and cracking. On the other hand, if you live in colder climates or areas with high humidity and frequent storms, the elements can cause your exterior paint to wear much quicker.

Maintaining Your Paint Job

Proper maintenance is another factor in prolonging the lifespan of your exterior paint job. Maintaining your exterior house paint will not only bring new life into your paint job, but it will keep your home looking fresh year after year, regardless of when your last paint job was.

Washing

Most materials require some level of washing. Washing your home will remove surface debris, bird droppings, mildew, mold, and other types of dirt. Cleaning your home’s surface will ensure your paint lasts longer.

Washing can be done with a mild solution of soap and water. You can use a soft-bristled scrub brush or sponge and once it’s clean, rinse with a hose. You can also opt for pressure washing, which does a great job of removing surface dirt. However, it can be tricky to get the balance of pressure and distance just right, and too much pressure can damage your surface. If choosing to pressure wash, it might be beneficial to hire a professional.

Touch-ups

It might be beneficial to perform touch-up painting on your exterior every couple of years. Some areas of your home will be more exposed to the elements than others, which means paint in these areas will deteriorate much faster. Putting in a few hours of touch-up painting every two or three years will significantly increase the longevity of your paint job.

how long does exterior painting last

Colorado Commercial & Residential Painting

Painting the outside of your home is a big job that needs specific skill and precision to execute, which is why we recommend using a contractor with quality products such as Colorado Painting. With over 39 years of trusted experience, we are the Denver area’s premier painting contractors, and we assure you that we’ll get the job done right.

Give us a call today or visit our website for a free quote. We guarantee to work until you are satisfied.

Painting your home’s exterior is a big home improvement project to take on, but a fresh coat of exterior paint can easily upgrade your home’s curb appeal. To get the best possible paint job for your home, there are specific preparation steps homeowners should take before applying the first stroke of paint. Whether it’s a DIY project or handled by professional painters, prep must be done properly to get the job done right. Here's how to prep your house for exterior painting.

How to Prep the Exterior of Your House for Painting

Exterior painting can seem like an overwhelming project, but it's really not intrusive, at all. And, with a little preparation on your end, you can make for an even smoother time.

Here's how to prepare:

colorado home exterior

Choose a Day With the Right Weather

Although Colorado's weather can be somewhat unpredictable, consider keeping a close eye on the weather forecast on the days leading up to your paint job.

There are a variety of reasons why you shouldn't paint in the rain, the moisture will start to blister, ruining any work started. Moreover, rain can present difficult and dangerous working conditions. So, pick a day where there is no precipitation in sight.

It is also recommended to avoid painting in the direct sun to prevent fading and cracks. Homeowners should paint the west-facing side of their home in the morning and the east later in the day.

Temperature is also an important consideration when painting your home. Most paints work best in temperatures between 60° and 85°F with little to no wind. Painting in windy conditions can cause it to dry too quickly, resulting in cracking, and peeling. You’ll also want to choose a day with humidity ranging from 40% to 70%.

pressure washing home exterior

Clean Your Home’s Exterior With a Pressure Washer

Before you start painting, you want to make sure you’re painting on a clean and smooth surface.

This will ensure you get the best coverage possible. Pressure washing your home will remove any dirt, residue, and peeling paint from the surface, ensuring it doesn’t get painted over with the new coat of paint.

Scrape Away Loose Paint and Repair Damaged Surfaces

It’s important to inspect the exterior of your home entirely and repair anything that appears to be damaged.

With a scraping tool, remove paint that appears to be flaking, also known as “loose paint.” If you find cracks and holes around doors and windows, you can use a spackle knife and apply filler or caulk. Once dry, lightly sand the surface using sanding paper or a sanding block to get a smooth surface.

Protect Your Lawns, Gardens, and Decks

The last thing you want to do is get paint somewhere it wasn’t meant to go. While we do provide tarps and drop cloths, there are some additional things you may want to do.

When painting a home’s exterior, there is a high risk of getting paint on bushes, flowerbeds, lawns, and other outdoor structures which is why we recommend using drop cloths to cover and protect anything that might get paint on it.

Additionally, cover and confine anything that might get in the way to prevent anything from rubbing against fresh paint.

Prime Before Painting

Priming the surface of your exterior will provide a more consistent look to the paint job by providing an adhesive surface.

Failing to prime your exterior before slapping on fresh paint can result in peeling paint, especially in areas with high humidity and moisture. Additionally, cleaning can be more difficult because paint can easily fade when wiped or cleaned.

Choose the Right Paint

Choosing the right paint doesn’t end with choosing a color.

There are many types of paint and each is designed for different surfaces and is available in a variety of finishes.

You’ll want to choose a paint that is durable and can withstand different weather conditions. Additionally, you’ll want to consider drying times and clean-up when making this choice.

Enamel vs. Latex

What differentiates enamel paint and latex paint is the paint’s base. Enamel paint is typically oil-based, while latex is water-based.

Enamel paint is recommended for hard and shell-like surfaces and does a good job at air drying. They generally come in a gloss or satin finish and take an average of six to eight hours to dry with a cure time of 8 to 24 hours. It’s important to note that using enamel paint comes with a difficult process that involves the use of solvents.

On the other hand, latex paint is more malleable and works best for surfaces that might expand. It's also beneficial to use latex paint for locations where flexibility and movement are required. Latex paints come in matte, flat, eggshell, and satin finishes and have a drying time ranging from one hour to two days. This type of paint is also known to be more environmentally friendly by producing fewer odors and toxic fumes.

Acrylic

Acrylic paint is another type of paint recommended for exterior paint jobs. This type of paint is known to have the highest durability and can resist harsh weather conditions over significant periods. It is also more resistant to fading, meaning you won't need to worry about repainting so often.

painting home exterior

What to Expect From Our Professional Painters

Painting your exteriors takes a lot of planning, so it might be optimal for you to hire an outside expert for the job.

A professional painter can offer expert advice on color and finishes, they’ll also have the high-quality tools and equipment they need to do the job right. This includes drop cloths and other protective materials. Additionally, professional painters will take care of any mess that comes with the job. This includes removing paint brushes, rollers, drop cloths, and cleaning up any drip or drops of paint.

Colorado Painting: Denver’s Best Painting Contractors Since 1983

Painting your exterior is a big task. Not only can it be costly, but it also requires a tremendous amount of effort and labor. This is a job you want to get right the first time.

Our team of painting contractors at Colorado Painting has over 39 years of interior and exterior painting experience, we can help you choose the right paint for your home and will work until you are satisfied.

Before we come out, we'll give you some reminders about how to prep your house for exterior painting.

Contact us today for a free quote. You can trust Colorado Painting to get the job right.

Painting the outside of your home is obviously something that you don’t want to screw up. There are a bunch of different factors you’ll want to consider when painting the exterior of your home, such as paint type, paint color, sun exposure, cleaning your walls, but the weather/time of year is another huge thing to consider when painting your exterior. Living in Colorado, you’re definitely aware that it tends to get pretty cold on occasion, especially at nighttime. Cold weather can impact a bunch of different aspects of exterior painting, all of which you’ll want to be aware of to make sure you get a nice, well-painted home.

How Cold is Too Cold?

When it comes to exterior painting in cold weather, there is a lower threshold for when the paint won’t cure correctly.

You have the metaphorical “green light”, so to speak, to paint as long as it’s above 35 degrees.

Many paints with low curing temperatures do not have additives, allowing for a superior finish.

However, this "35 degrees" refers to the lowest temperature you’ll get that day. A common misconception is that you can paint when the daytime high is above 50 and the overnight low is below 35.

However, the daytime high isn’t the only temperature that matters. You should also consider the overnight low, which should remain above 35 degrees since exterior paint typically won’t fully dry and cure in half a day.

Temperature-wise, while you won’t face any problems during the paint application, you will encounter difficulties during the drying stage. Paints stop melding or coalescing if the temperatures are too low, even higher than 35 depending on other factors. Other factors, such as the brushes and type of paint, can make a difference in the results, too.

Uncured paints can also expose your home to unwanted moisture. Dew forms on surfaces overnight because cold air doesn’t retain water vapor as well as warm air. When the moisture evaporates, it causes ingredients to come to the surface, creating stains and hindering adhesion.

For exterior painting in cold weather, the key is to pick a paint designed for cold (35-degree) weather that is water-resistant. The formula lets the paint cure on time and wicks moisture away from your home. These paints have twice the moisture resistance as standard latex coatings.

painting in cold weather

The Best Paints for Cold Weather

Many major paint manufacturers offer special paints that are formulated for cold weather.

However, as we discussed earlier, most of these are rated for temperatures no lower than 35 degrees. If you’re going to be exterior painting in cold weather, it's best to use one of these specially-designed paints. A paint that's designed for lower curing temperatures will be much more reliable than standard paints mixed with additives for freeze-resistance or thinned for easier application.

Note that the temperature must be at or above the minimum recommended curing temperature for the entire curing process, not just during application. If you add a fresh coat of paint in 45-degree weather, but then the weather turns colder an hour later, the paint may not cure properly even though it will eventually dry. It’s important to track the weather and especially note the night-time low temperature.

Additionally, you’ll want to use a specialized paintbrush when painting with these cold-weather paints. Because paints are thicker in lower temperatures, it's best to use relatively stiff brushes with nylon, polyester, or Chinex bristles, all of which tend to work well with thicker paint.

Tracking Local Weather Guides

Before beginning work on your project, you’ll want to check local forecasts and find a stretch of a few days when temperatures will be their highest and the sun will be out, as both of these will help speed up the drying process. You'll ideally need to have a few days in a row when temperatures don't drop below the minimum for the paint you are using because you also need to factor in drying time for multiple coats.

Plan each coat for times when the sun will be shining on the area you are painting. Direct sunlight quickly raises the surface temperature of most building materials. In hot weather, sunlight should be avoided, but in cold seasons it's preferable to paint in direct sun. The sun rises in the east and sets in the west, and throughout the day southern-facing walls will get near-constant sun. Painting north-facing or shaded parts of your home might be a little more difficult, so here’s where it’s especially important to understand when a good weather window is.

cold weather exterior house paint

Best Seasons for Exterior Painting

Generally, spring and fall are the ideal seasons for painting just about everywhere in the country. These seasons are when the weather is warm and the sun is not strong enough to overheat the surface that you are trying to paint. This is especially true in Colorado, where we frequently get very intense sunlight. It's also less likely that you’ll encounter temps dipping too low, so you can ensure that your paint will cure properly and your home will look great.

Ultimately, the best season depends on where you live. For instance, if you live up in the mountains in Colorado, spring still might be a little too cold and you’ll want to wait until summertime. If you’re somewhere in the Denver area, however, you might be able to get away with starting a little earlier in the year or going a little later.

Experienced Colorado Painters

Here at Colorado Painting, we take pride in providing long-lasting exterior paint jobs and reliable customer service. We know Colorado (we're locals) and we know painting – hence the name. We’ve assisted homeowners all across the front range of Colorado for decades. We strive to not only meet but exceed your expectations with every project in terms of quality, price, and communication.

Exterior painting in cold weather can be tricky. At Colorado Painting, we are continuously learning about the best products and application methods so that our customers get the paint job they want when they need it.

Give your home or office a fresh coat today!

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