If you're wondering how to clean exterior walls before painting, there are several steps you should take to ensure the walls are in tip-top shape. The first step is to inspect the walls. If they're dirty, you will need to repair the damaged mortar. You'll also need to allow ample time for drying. The best tool for cleaning exterior walls is a high-pressure water cleaner. These cleaners use less water than normal cleaning methods and avoid hazardous chemicals.
Pressure washer
Pressure washing can be an effective way to clean exterior walls. However, it is not recommended for the inexperienced. The high pressure can damage the exterior of a house, including the sheathing and wall cavities underneath siding. For safety reasons, pressure washing is best left to professional service companies.
It is important to thoroughly clean exterior surfaces before painting. This ensures a fresh canvas and avoids the trapping of foreign matter under fresh paint. Pressure washing should be used on the entire surface, starting at the top and working downward. During this process, it is also a good idea to clean gutters.
For a professional-looking exterior, use a pressure washer with a wide-fan nozzle. It is important to choose a nozzle that has low impact on the environment. Most professionals use yellow (15-degree) or green (25-degree) nozzles. You can also use a white (40-degree) nozzle for windows. For a more effective result, use a black (65-degree) pressure washer.
Bleach
Before painting exterior walls, it's important to remove moss, algae, and other organisms. Moss has a grassy appearance and algae looks like a thick, slimy substance. Bleach will kill these organisms and help your paint adhere to your exterior walls. It also removes stains. Bleach contains sodium hypochlorite, which is highly corrosive.
Bleach for exterior walls is a solution of one part bleach to three parts water. You can use this solution to whiten the exterior of your home. It is important to dilute the bleach before painting because too much can damage the paint or the wall covering. Besides, a high concentration of bleach can be harmful to your skin. You should also wear protective gear when applying bleach. Also, you must ensure that your exterior walls are free of mold, because mold can make it impossible to adhere paint.
Masking tape
When using masking tape, it is important to keep the area clean before applying it. Clean walls are more likely to hold the tape properly and adhere properly. To clean the area before applying the tape, you can use a warm, damp towel. But be careful not to get the tape too wet. You do not want to get paint all over the area!
Masking tape is useful for a number of painting projects. It can create precise lines, clean edges, and bold colors. It also protects delicate surfaces.
Repairing mildewed areas
Before you begin painting your exterior walls, it is important to repair mildewed areas. Mildew grows on surfaces that are constantly moist, such as wood or vinyl siding. It thrives in damp, unlit areas and is easy to mistake for dirt. Use household bleach to identify the spot, and wash the area thoroughly with water.
The best way to remove the mildew is to use a solution of one part liquid bleach to three parts water. The solution should be applied directly to the mildewed area and left for at least 10 minutes. Then, rinse the area with a garden hose and allow it to dry. Once the area is clean, use a top-quality paint to help prevent future growth of mildew.
Cleaning textured exterior wall coatings
If you are considering exterior house painting in San Diego, you may want to consider cleaning the textured exterior wall coating. This type of finish collects dirt and other particles, and can make your home look dirty. Fortunately, many of these types of coatings are self-cleaning. As they weather, small particles from the air settle on the coating's tiny pieces, which are typically made of crushed marble or perlite. These particles serve as extra strength for the coating, and they also improve its protection against weather.
While most modern homes have smooth siding, some older homes may have textured exteriors. While these types of surfaces are difficult to paint, they deserve the best protection possible. Luckily, there are a few simple tips to help you prepare them properly for the process. First, make sure that you clean the surface thoroughly to remove any dirt, moisture stains, and dust. This will help prevent any paint peeling off during the process.