“Surface prep” is one of those kind of ambiguous terms that could mean a lot of different things. So, is it a catch-all that simply sounds good to say, or is it really an integral part of your home painting process?
Yes.
Before you think we just offered the most vague and unhelpful answer possible, we can explain. For many painters, surface prep is something that either is tacked onto the process, skipped altogether, or barely touched on. For other painting companies, it’s a priority. In some cases, it even includes the lion’s share of the work.
For a real-life example of what can happen when the prep stage is skipped, click on over to this article we published a number of months ago: What Does Your Painting Estimate Include? Don’t Forget to Ask!
At Sundeleaf Painting, we believe that thoroughly preparing the surface is absolutely critical and an essential part of being a high-end painter. Why? We’re glad you asked!
Making Sure Your New Paint Lasts Just As Long As Possible
There is so, so, SO much more to the painting process than just grabbing a bucket of paint and slathering it on siding. Incorrect products, processes, and faulty applications, especially on older homes, can leave layer upon layer of weak coatings. This means that if you simply give the surface a cursory scrape and wash, then begin painting, you’re building on a doomed foundation.
You might be using the highest quality paint in the world, but it simply won’t last.
Proper surface preparation involves removing everything that will get in the way of superior paint adhesion. This includes:
- Dirt
- Mold
- Mildew
- Surface damage
- Rot
- Old, failed coatings
- …and more
Ask Your Painter about What Surface Prep They’ll Include
Doing the job properly is always the most cost-effective option, even if the initial price is higher. Because of that, we strongly suggest never choosing the cheapest painter you can find. There always will be someone willing to do it for less, but that often includes cut cohttps://www.sundeleafpainting.com/contactrners, cheaper materials, less motivated and invested painters in your home, and short-term satisfaction… if any at all.
If you live in the Portland area and have more exterior painting questions, why not reach out to us at Sundeleaf Painting? We’re here to help!
