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Step 1 - Start Power Washing The Surface


Before you can start painting it is very important to prep the surface. Start by power washing.  It is critical to remove the loose paint, dirt and debris from the surface of the house. Power washing is a quick and efficient method to prep the surface.

Proximity to surfaces when spraying is based on the spray tip being used. Recommended tip for house cleaning is a 15 degree tip. For stripping paint use a roto nozzle, which is more powerful than a 15 degree tip. Always practice on scrap boards before starting the job.


Step 2 - Clear Off Sides and Driveways


Use a 15 degree tip on the power washer to clean debris and slippery mold off of sidewalks. As in the case of cleaning a deck, keep sprayer moving to not pit the surface. Safety glasses are a necessity. Keep others at a distance when power washing.

Step 3 - Get The Surface Dry


All surfaces should be left to dry for a minimum of three days. To speed along the process a fan can be used.

A fan can serve multiple purposes when power washing a surface.

  • It speeds drying time and gets behind the face of the surface
  • The fan can pinpoint a specific smaller area for quick dry
  • A fan can be used to quick dry spackle, caulk, primer and or a first coat of paint
  • Excellent for cooling handyman on a job site

As the surface is drying - examine the siding for loose boards, screws or nails.


Use a hammer to either pull out or re nail siding. This is the proper time to add additional nails or screws to secure siding if necessary. Use non rusting galvanized nails or screws.


Make sure the nail is flush to the siding. Use a punch to deepen the nail to prepare for spackle or caulk. Nail holes will show far less if a nail punch is used

Step 4 - Remove Paint From Siding (Scraper, Power Tools or Heat Gun)


Don't cut corners when it comes to removing paint. Proper paint removal will allow paint to go on smoother, adhere better and last longer.

Use a scraper to knock down and soften edges. Scrape the surface to increase prime adhesion. Alternative tools are palm and orbital sanders, or sanding blocks which help to feather edges for primer / paint application.


Painting Pro Tip - Use The Wagner PaintEater For Quicker Paint Removal


PaintEater is easy to use and delivers professional results. It is gentle on the surface, but tough on peeling paint. It can be used on siding, trim, concrete blocks, masonry and steel. It creates a smooth edge, that assists paint to flow without showing scraping lines. Use two hands for consistent pressure to avoid over sanding and creating divots in wood. Always wear safety gear when operating - safety glasses, mask and work gloves.


Use the PaintEater to get under the lap of the siding. A scraper will often score an unwanted line. Keep consistent pressure.

[View PaintEater In Action.]

For siding restoration, the Wagner Heat Gun can strip all surfaces to bare wood. This process can remove all layers at one time and can save long hours trying to break through multiple layers of primer / paint.

After power washing and removing paint allow surface three days to dry before sealing cut edges with caulk.

This will allow the back of the washed siding to dry and will prevent any mold from developing.



Step 5 - Prep The Surface


Wipe off all surfaces of any dust from sanding or other surface prep

Using a utility knife, cut the caulk tip ¼” at an angle. Use exterior paintable, latex caulk.

Use your finger or a wet rag to eliminate excessive caulk. Put pressure on the caulked seam to insure a tight seal and prevent moisture from developing between and behind the siding.

Make sure that all caulk is smooth and dry prior to primer / paint application

Step 6 - Mask Windows, Cover Plants and Put Down Drop Cloths


Use a 1.5 to 2” tape, secure around the outer edges of the window. (Use the proper masking tape depending on how long the tape will be secured).
Using a .35 mill plastic, secure the plastic to the back side of your tape.


Use a utility knife to cut a line along the outside of the making tape removing excess plastic

Good time to trim back plants and bushes so they don't touch the house. Plants and bushes that touch the house can scrape the paint off, collect water and cause damage to the siding surface.

Save your plants - be sure to cover plants and bushes. Use a fabric drop cloth instead of plastic, which can create a green house effect and damage plants.

Time To Start Painting


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