Preparation is the most important step in any paint job.

Exterior Painting Services

For exterior surfaces, power washing is the first process for the elimination of mildew.

  • Storm window frames are removed to provide complete access to windows.
  • Downspouts are dismantled to gain access to corner boards.
  • Shutters are taken down to expose window frame edges.
  • All of these items are replaced after the job is completed.
  • Decks, bushes, roofs, and other areas not to be exposed to paint will be covered.
  • Any existing loose and flaking paint is intensely scraped and sanded and loose window glazing is removed and replaced.
  • Raw wood is primed.
  • All window sills and drip caps receive a full coat of primer.
  • One full coat of primer on all trim or siding is offered when applicable.
  • All cracks are caulked, holes are filled, and water damage (rotting wood) materials are replaced.

All of these steps should be taken before any top coat paint is applied on an exterior surface. Without these steps, the paint will not adhere properly and areas not fully protected will attract moisture leading to long-term damage to the property.

Hand Brushed Siding
Older pressboard siding is very prone to rotting, and the area most susceptible is the bottom section of the bead. Many painting companies will apply paint to pressboard type siding with an airless sprayer to reduce labor cost. However, this is not an effective method.

In order for the spray pattern to be even the painter will be forced to reduce the thickness in this area to avoid running and sagging. The spray unit creates a tiny vacuum or vortex that can keep any quantity of paint from reaching the bottom of the bead.

The best way to paint siding is by brushing on the paint.

At Hughes Painting, we brush this type of siding by hand.

Applying Stain to Cedar Homes and Decks
Cedar homes and decks require stains that are more difficult to apply with a brush. The only way to apply most semi-transparent stains is with an airless sprayer. Similar to most companies, we spray stains to cedar siding. However, we add an additional procedure for solid color or non-semi-transparent stains called “back rolling.”

Using a small tipped roller while the stain is still wet, the painter rolls off the stain to press it into the cracks of the board which gives a more uniform coverage. Not only does this allow for a better seal and longevity of the stain, it also creates a consistent, even appearance.

Because the spray pattern is not an issue and the sprayer is used solely to get the stain in place for the roller, the painter can reduce the pressure and get the gun closer to the siding. This reduces “over spray” mess commonly associated with airless sprayers.

We cover windows and openings with plastic, and cover decks and bushes with drop cloths. This ensures your property is protected from paint spills and splatters.