Want smooth, long-lasting exterior results? It’s all about prep. Use this straightforward checklist—tailored to Ambler, PA homes and weather—to get your siding, trim, and doors ready for a pro-level finish.
1) Pick the right weather window (Ambler edition)
- Aim for 50–85°F with low humidity and no rain in the 24–48 hours after painting.
- Avoid painting in direct, blazing sun; paint on the shady side of the house throughout the day.
- After spring pollen and before peak summer storms is often ideal; early fall is another great window.
2) Walk the exterior and note issues (your scope map)
- Circle the house and mark peeling, flaking, hairline cracks, soft wood, mildew, and chalking.
- Check south- and west-facing sides for UV wear; they usually need extra prep.
- Photograph problem spots to confirm they were addressed before painting.
3) Clear the perimeter
- Move grills, furniture, and planters at least 6–8 feet from the walls.
- Trim shrubs and branches off the siding; tie back vines.
- Cover delicate landscaping with breathable drop cloths (no plastic suffocation).
4) Wash first—then judge the paint
- Rinse loose dust with a garden hose, then clean with a siding-safe wash (mildew areas get a mildew remover).
- Gentle approach wins: soft wash or low-pressure settings protect older siding and mortar.
- Let everything dry fully—usually a day before scraping or sanding.
5) Test for lead if your home predates 1978
- Older Ambler homes may have lead-based coatings under newer layers.
- If you suspect lead, use EPA-recognized test kits or hire a lead-safe certified pro.
- Skip any power-sanding that creates dust unless properly contained and handled by qualified pros.
6) Scrape and sand (thin, smooth, even)
- Hand-scrape all loose paint to a firm edge.
- Feather edges with medium, then fine grit.
- Glossy trim needs a scuff-sand so new paint bonds.
- Vacuum or brush off dust before priming.
7) Repair before you prime
- Wood: Consolidate soft areas or replace rotted sections; use exterior wood epoxy for small spots.
- Siding joints & trim gaps: Apply paintable exterior caulk (sparingly—don’t seal intentional weep gaps).
- Nail holes / minor dings: Exterior filler or putty, then sand flush.
- Masonry hairlines: Use a compatible masonry patching compound.
8) Prime where it counts
- Bare wood, metal, patched areas, and chalky spots are primed with exterior primer chosen for the substrate.
- Stain-blocking primer handles tannins (cedar/redwood) and water marks.
- Spot-priming is fine for small areas; larger repairs may require a full-section prime for a uniform sheen.
9) Mask and protect
- Mask windows, fixtures, door hardware, and light boxes.
- Lay drop cloths along foundations and walkways; tape to hold position, but leave air gaps to allow moisture to escape.
- Turn off exterior lights you’re masking so the adhesive doesn’t heat up and stick.
10) Plan the color story (and samples)
- Paint sample swatches at poster board size and tape them to multiple elevations.
- View colors in morning, midday, and late-afternoon light; Ambler’s leafy streets can cast cool or warm tones.
- Decide sheen: satin on siding (durable, easy to clean), semi-gloss on doors and trim for crisp edges.
11) Stage materials & tools (no mid-project runs)
- Exterior primer and finish coats (quality, weather-resistant lines)
- Angled brushes, mini-rollers, and extension poles
- Scrapers, sanding blocks, filler/epoxy, exterior caulk
- Masking paper/tape, plastic for fixtures, canvas drops
- Ladders and, if needed, planks with proper stabilizers
12) Safety check
- Inspect ladders, set them on a firm footing, and maintain 3-point contact.
- Keep paths clear; coil hoses and cords away from ladder feet.
- Wear eye protection, a dust mask or respirator when sanding, and gloves for chemicals.
13) Day-before confirmation
- Re-walk the home using your photo notes: peeling gone, repairs smooth, primer set, caulk cured.
- Confirm the start side (usually shaded) and the order: top down, shady side to sunny, trim last or first depending on approach.
- Stage paints and tools by elevation to minimize carrying while on ladders.
14) Day-of painting rhythm (so prep pays off)
- Cut in edges and seams first, then roll field areas while the paint is wet for seamless blending.
- Maintain a wet edge to avoid lap marks—especially on warm days.
- Light, even coats; let the first coat cure before the second for better durability and color depth.
Ambler-specific tips for better results
- After spring pollen bursts, wash surfaces again before priming/painting.
- Watch afternoon thunderstorms—wrap up early if humidity spikes.
- Shade trees can drip sap and debris; keep covers on fresh paint zones when leaves are active.
What to leave to the pros
- Extensive rot replacement, high gables, and steep ladder setups
- Lead-safe prep and dust containment
- Spraying large elevations near neighboring homes, windows, or vehicles
When you want a smooth, efficient project with clean lines and strong adhesion, a local crew that knows Ambler’s housing stock and weather patterns is your best ally. Explore our Exterior Painting Services or our Ambler service area page for help planning your project and scheduling a friendly, no-pressure estimate.
- Exterior Painting Services: https://aspenpaintingpa.com/exterior-painting-services/
- Ambler page: https://aspenpaintingpa.com/painters-ambler-pa/
Quick homeowner checklist (printable)
- ☐ Choose weather window (2+ dry, mild days)
- ☐ Move/cover landscaping & items away from walls
- ☐ Wash siding; let it dry completely
- ☐ Scrape loose paint; sand to feather edges
- ☐ Repair rot, fill holes, caulk select gaps
- ☐ Prime bare/patchy areas; stain-block as needed
- ☐ Mask windows/fixtures; lay drop cloths
- ☐ Sample colors on all elevations; set sheen
- ☐ Stage tools/paint; confirm start side
- ☐ Paint top-down, shady-to-sunny; keep a wet edge
FAQs
1) Do I have to remove all old paint?
No—only loose, failing paint must go. Sound, well-bonded paint gets scuff-sanded and primed where needed.
2) How long should I wait after washing before priming?
Typically 24 hours, longer if it’s humid or shaded. Surfaces must be bone dry for good adhesion.
3) Which exterior areas usually need the most prep?
South/west exposures, fascia near gutters, window sills, and lower trim where splash-back happens.
4) Is caulking every seam a good idea?
Not always. Seal gaps that admit water but avoid closing intentional ventilation or drainage joints.
5) What’s the best sheen for front doors?
Semi-gloss or even a durable gloss for impact and wipeability; it highlights panel detail and resists fingerprints.
Ray is an inspiring leader with a strong work ethic stemming from his exemplary upbringing in a caring and loving family environment. His parents modeled the importance of integrity and hard work to him and his siblings, values which Ray now instills in his teenage daughter. As the owner of Aspen Painting & Wallcovering, Inc., he leads by example by expecting nothing but the best from himself and his employees. His primary goal is to provide superior service and quality craftsmanship to each of his clients so that they become enthusiastic ambassadors for the company. Ray is a passionate team player who always strives to exceed expectations.