Preparing your home’s exterior is the most important step in achieving a paint job that not only looks great but also lasts through Colorado’s intense sun, snow, and seasonal weather swings. A properly prepped surface ensures paint bonds well, resists peeling, and protects your home for years to come.
Signs Your Exterior Needs Repainting
Not sure if it’s time to start? Look for these red flags:
- Faded or chalky paint color
- Peeling or blistering paint
- Exposed wood or stucco cracks
- Increased drafts around windows/doors
- Water stains or mold growth
- It’s been more than 7 years since the last repaint
Step 1: Inspect Your Home’s Exterior
Start by walking around your home and noting areas that need attention:
- Peeling or bubbling paint
- Mold, mildew, or algae growth
- Cracks in stucco or gaps around trim
- Warped, rotted, or water-damaged boards
Fixing these issues before painting ensures the new finish lasts.
Step 2: Wash the Surfaces Thoroughly
A clean surface is critical for adhesion. Use a garden hose with a scrub brush or a power washer set to a safe pressure. Focus on:
- Dirt and dust buildup
- Cobwebs and insect nests
- Chalky paint residue
- Stains from water or rust
Allow surfaces to dry completely before moving to repairs.
Step 3: Repair and Patch Damaged Areas
Strong paint starts with a strong surface. Common fixes include:
- Replacing rotted siding or trim
- Patching stucco cracks
- Re-caulking joints and seams
- Filling nail holes or small gaps
Always prime repaired areas so the paint bonds evenly.
Step 4: Scrape and Sand Away Loose Paint
Any flaking or peeling paint must be removed, or it will cause new paint to fail. Use a paint scraper and sandpaper to feather edges smooth. Pay special attention to:
- Windowsills
- Door frames
- Horizontal trim boards
Step 5: Prime Before Painting
Step 6: Protect Areas You’re Not Painting
Use painter’s tape, plastic sheeting, and drop cloths to cover:
- Windows and doors
- Hardware and fixtures
- Decks, patios, and landscaping
Taking time here makes the final result look crisp and professional.
Step 7: Choose the Right Exterior Paint
Colorado’s climate demands premium-quality paint. Look for:
- 100% acrylic latex paint (best durability and flexibility)
- UV-resistant formulas to combat fading from strong sunlight
- Moisture-resistant finishes to handle snow and summer storms
At MGM Painting Co, we use products specifically designed for homes in Northern Colorado.
Step 8: Plan Around the Weather
Avoid painting when:
- Temperatures are below 50°F or above 90°F
- Rain or snow is in the forecast
- Direct midday sun hits the siding
The best conditions are mild, dry days — common in late spring and early fall in Fort Collins and surrounding areas.
Step 9: Paint with Care
When it’s finally time to paint:
- Work from the top down to control drips
- Maintain a “wet edge” to prevent lap marks
- Apply two coats for the best protection and color depth
CONTACT MGM Painting Co
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Common Myths About Exterior Painting
You Don’t Need to Wash Before Painting
Save some time, but at what cost? Hover to learn why this is a big mistake!
Primer Isn’t Necessary
Cutting corners will ensure a poor result. Hover to see why.
One Coat of Paint is Enough
Exterior painting takes time. Learn why one coat is a bad choice.
All Exterior Paint is the Same
Don't be fooled. Not all exterior house paint is created equal.
You Can Paint in Any Weather
Weather is one of the hardest things to coordinate with exterior painting.
DIY Exterior Painting Saves Money
DIY is often tempting, but can lead to major expenses if done incorrectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Even if the house looks clean, dust and chalky paint will prevent new paint from bonding.
Paint will not adhere as well, leading to peeling and uneven color. Primer also blocks stains and seals repairs.
No. Any loose paint must be scraped and sanded first. Otherwise, the new paint will fail quickly.
For most homes, 1–3 days depending on size, condition, and number of repairs.
Our strong UV rays, hail, and freeze-thaw cycles are tough on paint. Proper prep extends your paint job’s lifespan.
Your home is ready once surfaces are fully cleaned, dry, and free of loose or peeling paint. Repairs should be patched, sanded, and primed before applying new paint.
At minimum: a scraper, sander, caulk gun, exterior-grade caulk, filler or patching compound, primer, painter’s tape, plastic sheeting, and drop cloths.
No. Paint won’t adhere to chalk, dust, or grime. If the siding feels chalky when you rub it, it needs to be washed and dried before painting.
Not always. You only need to scrape away loose, peeling paint. Any areas that are firmly adhered can be sanded smooth and painted over after priming.
Always repair or replace caulking before painting. Fresh caulk seals gaps and prevents moisture from getting behind the paint.
Not until it’s cleaned. Mold or mildew must be scrubbed off with a cleaning solution before painting, or it will grow back through the new paint.
Skipping prep leads to paint that peels, chips, or bubbles within a year or two — meaning you’ll spend more time and money repainting sooner.
No. Exterior formulas are designed to handle UV rays, temperature changes, and moisture. Interior paints will fail quickly outdoors.
At least two coats are recommended for full coverage, durability, and protection against Colorado’s climate.
Yes. Wood may need scraping and sanding, stucco often requires patching cracks, and aluminum or vinyl must be thoroughly cleaned to remove chalk.
