All Mr. Handyman franchises are locally owned and operated and may offer fewer or more services than those listed here. To learn more about the Exterior Painting Services offered in your area, contact your local Mr. Handyman for details or a customized on-site assessment.

Exterior Painting Services FAQs

Mr. Handyman has been helping homeowners repair, maintain, and enhance their spaces for over 25 years! We are the one-stop solution for everything on your to-do list. This includes answering your questions about home repairs, maintenance, and improvements. Here are answers to some of your most frequently asked questions about exterior painting services.

What type of paint is best for exterior painting?

The best choice for exterior painting is usually acrylic latex paint. It’s durable, weather-resistant, and holds up well against fading and cracking. It also works well on a variety of surfaces, from wood to vinyl siding, making it a versatile option for most homes. Plus, it’s easy to clean up with water and provides great coverage to keep your home looking fresh for years. Another bonus is its ability to resist mildew, which is especially helpful in humid climates.

How do I prepare my house for exterior painting?

Outside of moving any items blocking the exterior of your home, when you call on Mr. Handyman, there’s nothing you need to do! We’ll take care of exterior house painting prep by thoroughly cleaning the surfaces to remove dirt, mildew, and peeling paint.

Next, we repair any cracks or holes and sand rough areas to ensure a smooth surface. We’ll protect your windows, doors, and landscaping with painter’s tape and drop cloths. Finally, we apply primer where needed, especially on bare wood or trouble spots, so the paint adheres well and lasts for years.

Should I pressure wash before painting?

It’s important to remove dirt, mildew, or peeling paint before our exterior painting services begin. While pressure washing is an option for many surfaces like vinyl siding, others will benefit from soft washing. With that being said, our team will take care of any necessary cleaning steps for you. Our attention to detail and careful prep work ensure results you’ll love. Plus, proper prep work can also help prevent future issues like mold or paint failure.

Can I just paint over old paint?

While it’s possible to paint over old paint, the surface may not always be in acceptable painting condition. If the existing paint is peeling, cracked, or damaged, painting over it won’t give you the smooth, long-lasting finish you want. Our team will assess the condition of your current paint and take care of any necessary scraping, sanding, or priming to ensure the new paint adheres properly and looks great for years to come. Properly preparing the surface can also help prevent future issues like bubbling or premature wear.

What happens if I don’t use a primer before painting?

If you skip the primer before painting, the new paint may not stick properly, which can cause peeling, uneven coverage, or a less-than-smooth finish. Primer helps seal surfaces, block stains, and create a solid base for your paint. Without it, your exterior paint job might not last as long or look as polished. Skipping this step could also result in visible imperfections and reduced durability, especially if you're painting over bare wood or dark colors.