From Prep to the Final Touches: What to Expect During Exterior House Painting

Thinking about giving your home a fresh new look? A professional exterior house painting project can enhance your house’s curb appeal. But if you’re wondering what to expect during exterior house painting, you’re not alone. Many homeowners feel a little uncertain before their first major painting project. Don’t worry—we’re breaking it all down in simple, no-fluff terms so you know exactly what’s ahead.

• You’ll need to prep your home and landscaping before the painting crew arrives.
• Weather plays a major role in the painting schedule.
• Expect several stages: inspection, prep, priming, painting, and cleanup.
• A good crew will communicate timelines, expectations, and keep things tidy.
• It usually takes a few days, depending on the size and condition of your home.

Professional painters don’t just roll up with a brush and bucket. They come with expertise, safety gear, industrial equipment, and the right materials for your home’s surface. They’re trained to spot potential problems, like wood rot or mildew, and address them before painting starts.

Once you book your project, most companies will schedule a pre-paint walkthrough. This is where they inspect your home, talk through color choices, and flag any issues like peeling paint or moisture damage.

They may also provide guidance on what you need to do ahead of time—like trimming back bushes or moving patio furniture.

Proper prep is 70% of a great paint job. Before painting starts, expect:

• Pressure washing to remove dirt, mold, and old paint flakes
• Sanding and scraping loose paint
• Caulking gaps around windows and doors
• Covering landscaping and walkways with drop cloths or plastic

The crew might tape off windows, fixtures, and other surfaces to keep lines crisp and mess to a minimum.

Depending on the condition of your home’s exterior, the painters may apply a primer. This step helps the paint adhere better and last longer. Any surface repairs, like filling cracks or replacing wood trim, usually happen here too.

Finally, the painting begins! Professionals typically use a combination of spraying and hand-brushing techniques for clean, even coverage. Depending on the color and the surface, one or two coats may be applied.

Be ready for some noise and activity around your home. Most painting crews are respectful and aim to minimize disruption.

Once the last coat is dry, the crew will walk around your home, checking for any missed spots or imperfections. Cleanup includes removing tape, drop cloths, and any debris. A good team will leave your home and yard looking better than they found it.

Some painters even offer a final walkthrough with you to ensure everything meets your expectations.

Typically 2-5 days. Smaller homes with minimal prep might be done in two days, while larger or older homes that need more scraping, priming, or repairs could take up to five or more. Unpredictable weather, like rain or high winds, can also impact the schedule, so your contractor will build in some flexibility just in case.

Start by clearing outdoor furniture, grills, and any decorations near your home’s exterior. Trim back shrubs, trees, and plants so crews have easy access to walls. Make sure outdoor lights are turned off, hoses are stored away, and pets are safely indoors or secured in another part of the yard. If you have any sprinkler systems, it’s a good idea to turn them off temporarily.

Yes, you can stay home. Most work is done outside, so it shouldn’t interfere much with your day-to-day. However, there may be some noise from power washers or sprayers. Keep windows closed to avoid paint fumes drifting inside, and steer clear of active work areas. It’s best to coordinate with the crew to know which parts of the house they’ll be working on each day.

With high-quality paint, proper prep, and professional application, your exterior paint job should last between 7 to 10 years. Homes in harsh climates—like areas with lots of sun, humidity, or salt air—may need repainting sooner. Regular maintenance, like cleaning the exterior and touching up chipped areas, can help extend its lifespan.

It can. Rain, extreme heat, and high humidity all affect paint’s ability to adhere and dry properly. If bad weather is forecasted, your contractor will likely reschedule for the best possible conditions. Reputable painters prioritize quality over speed, and they’ll keep you informed of any necessary changes.

An exterior house painting project doesn’t have to be stressful. Now that you know what to expect during exterior house painting, you can go into the process with confidence. With the right crew, clear communication, and some simple prep, your home will be looking brand new in no time.

Ready to give your home a fresh new look? Contact Lagunas Painting at 208-943-2873 to schedule your free estimate. Our expert painters are here to help you every step of the way—from color selection to final cleanup. Let’s bring your vision to life!