Here’s How to Fix Common Exterior Painting & Staining Mistakes

Drips, sags, and other flaws in your paint or stain work may be more visible to you than others, but there’s good reasons to fix them sooner vs. later. First of all, if you’re a perfectionist the job just won’t sit right with you until it’s corrected. Also, minor cosmetic issues can turn into major ones if left unattended. Touching up blemishes on window trim, decks and furniture can pre-empt future problems such as leaks, decay, and insect damage. Fortunately, the remedies are often quick and simple.

How to Fix Common Exterior Painting Errors

It’s rare that any painting project produces impeccable results on the first attempt. Surface imperfections, trapped moisture, and application errors can produce flaws in the finished coat. A selection of sanding, scraping and cleaning tools will come in handy. In most cases you should use premium latex exterior house paint for refreshing outdoor house colours.

How to Fix Common Staining Errors

Most outdoor stain errors are obvious soon after the stain is applied. Poor surface prep and hasty technique can cause uneven results. Wood stain is designed to expose the natural grain so it’s important to carefully remove all dirt and debris and sand out any rough spots before proceeding. Exterior stain projects are generally more forgiving than interior, but details are still visible in high-traffic eras where you eat and socialize.

Don’t be discouraged by minor imperfections. The solution is often just a little more sanding and cleaning before a fresh layer goes on. You can also increase the odds of a great finished project by taking extra time to prepare the surface before you open that can of house paint or deck stain. It will be worth the effort.