If you want something hands-on to do this summer, look no further than the outside of your house. There are many reasons to refresh the paint job on your house, including increased protection against weathering, and increased curb appeal. Whatever your reason, read on to learn just what you’ll need, and need to do, to paint your home’s exterior.
What You’ll Need: Materials, Tools, Protection
A DIY paint job is easily doable, and costs only as much as the materials, tools and protection you need. Those materials include the paint itself, the primer and the caulking (to seal cracks and joints). For tools, look for paintbrushes and rollers, sanders, and scrapers. You’ll also need drop cloths (to protect your lawn/garden), masks/respirators (to protect yourself), and a HEPA vacuum/suit if you’re stripping lead-based paint.
What You’ll Do: Step One
Essentially, house-painting boils down to three steps. First, prep the surface. You’ll need to wash the house, scrape loose paint off and sand it smooth to make it an ideal surface to which the new paint can adhere. Note, if your house was built before 1978, test for lead-based paint (which will just require a little more protection while you’re scraping it off). Lead-testing kits can be purchased online.
What You’ll Do: Step Two
Next, patch and prime. Fill in smaller imperfections with something like epoxy. Bigger gaps and joints will need caulking but do this only after the primer is applied. Take this patching time to fix any rot or potential rot problems signaled by improper water drainage. Then prime the whole exterior this seals the wood and makes it even easier for paint to adhere to the walls.
What You’ll Do: Step Three
Finally, the paint. Water-based latex (or acrylic) paint is more flexible, easier to clean and more environmentally friendly than oil-based paints. Read the paint can they contain tips and instructions on using the paint that can come in handy. With DIY, brushes and rollers are better to use than a paint-sprayer, which can be hard to control. Three tips: always start at the top of the house and paint down, it’s always better to do two coats, and stay in the shade while you’re working painting in direct sunlight causes the paint to dry too fast and flake.
What You’ll Do After: How To Maintain An Exterior
Once your exterior has dried, keep it looking fresh with consistent caulking, touch ups for peeling paint and removing mold and mildew whenever you spot it.
For more tips or advice on improving your home’s value in your neighborhood, give me a call – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.
Click Here to See What Your Home is Worth
35801 N Meander Way
Carefree, AZ 85377
$5,750,000
3
Beds
5
Baths
6,501
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6749384
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Chic single level contemporary new build completed in 2023 in Carefree on Black Mountain! Nestled on a sprawling mountainside estate spanning 1.6 acres, offering breathtaking vistas of Black Mountain, Boulders Resorts golf courses, and beyond. This architectural gem is a testament to modern luxury living, meticulously crafted with unparalleled attention to detail. Upon entry, you are met with great room, featuring soaring 16-foot ceilings, expansive 30-foot wide glass pocket doors, and a sleek modern fireplace adorned with porcelain slabs. Floor-to-ceiling 10-foot glass walls frame the awe-inspiring views, seamlessly blending the indoors with the natural splendor outside. The European-inspired kitchen is a culinary enthusiast's dream, showcasing a over 15-foot long island finished with luxurious Taj Mahal quartzite, Miele appliances, and a spacious breakfast nook enveloped by sliding glass doors. For added convenience, a full prep/catering kitchen awaits. Step outside to the sprawling 14-foot high ceiling covered patio, featuring limestone floors and a misting system, creating an outdoor oasis to unwind, entertain, and revel in the panoramic views of the valley and city lights. The focal point of the backyard is the exquisite custom negative edge pool and spa, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. Retreat to the sumptuous primary suite, complete with dual custom closets and a spa-like bathroom featuring dual water closets, freestanding tub, marble floor and wall surrounds, and a steam shower. Additional rooms include an expansive office with custom bookshelves and a private patio, along with a versatile flex space ideal for a gym, game room, or additional bedroom, offer flexibility to suit your lifestyle. Two spacious ensuite guest rooms complete the guest wing! Designed for modern living, this home boasts a Creston smart home system, allowing for effortless control of lighting, music, HVAC, pool, shades, and security with a simple touch. A 4-car garage with oversized doors, a spacious laundry room with double washer and dryer, and lush turf grass area add to the convenience and allure of this remarkable property. Welcome home!
4021 E Claremont Avenue
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
$5,750,000
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
6,155
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6775893
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
One of the most unique homes in Paradise Valley. You pause as the private gate opens revealing the stunning entrance framed by two custom fountains. As you open the incredible hand crafted front door you are overwhelmed by the view from the large. Courtyard. This meticulously well maintained home with lush landscaping offers alfresco dining alongside the sparkling 20' lap pool and spa. focusing directly on Camelback Mountain. Fourteen foot ceilings reign over the large sliding glass windows which disappear into the walls with the push of a button. This house was created for indoor outdoor entertaining. The kitchen, a chef's dream features Gaggenau appliances, a 6x11 soapstone island with Paul Henningsen's Artichoke Lighting above also includes a well appointed butlers pantry. The open kitchen concept embraces a spacious family room and inviting breakfast nook with corner fireplace. Massive exotic Tiger Wood barn doors are featured in the two en-suite guest bedrooms. Virtually every room captures our magical Arizona lighting and views from nearly every room of the three iconic mountains, The Preserve, Mummy and Camelback. Two separate offices, one with distinctive large fireplace allow more than one person to work while home. At the end of the courtyard visit the entertainment room or stay in shape with the private gym adjacent to the large self contained Casita. The air conditioned 3 car garage has additional storage for bikes and holiday decorations. Privately positioned with easy access to AJ's, Global Ambassador, Steak 44, Paradise Valley Country Club and PCDS. Minutes to Phoenix Airport, HWY 51 & 101.
10184 E Peak Circle
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$5,700,000
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,519
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6754344
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Estancia Golf Membership available * Completely remodeled in 2023 * Elegant residence in the guard-gated community of Estancia with timeless architectural details * The exterior details include an organic composition of dry-stacked stone, stucco and glass with a new concrete tile roof * Sited on an elevated lot with panoramic views of Pinnacle Peak * Split floor plan with a living room, family room that connects to an open kitchen, two guest suites and a dedicated office with full bath providing the flexibility for a fourth bedroom * Interior details include wood plank flooring, granite and quartz countertops, custom-crafted cabinetry, all new custom lighting and dry-stacked stone fireplace surrounds * The resort-style outdoor living space offers a large covered patio, heated pool and spa built-in BBQ station and a gas fireplace *
24863 N 103rd Way
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$5,695,000
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
5,932
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6723326
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Amazing opportunity for brand new build contemporary styled construction in North Scottsdale! Camelot Homes award winning Cavallo floor plan offers all Single level and the best indoor/outdoor living. Price includes all structural components, wine wall, highly upgraded contemporary cabinets , oversized tile flooring, countertops and tile, electrical and low voltage upgrades as well as 3 en suite bedrooms, casita, office and bonus room along with standard 4 car garage. Amazing views from courtyard and rear yard. Price also includes upgraded pool and landscaping. Pool/landscaping currently being installed. Estimated closing End of the year 2024. Video is from our Bronco model and not representative of home for sale.
3866 S Clubhouse Circle Unit 259
Flagstaff, AZ 86005
$5,695,000
5
Beds
4.5
Baths
6,522
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6691628
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Situated on one of Pine Canyon's best fairway lots this stunning mountain lodge has dramatic views of the 17th green and the San Fransisco Peaks. The grand ledge stone and wood exterior design continues inside as textured stone columns frame the great room and a stunning floor-to-ceiling ledge stone fireplace takes center stage along with expansive windows and glass double doors to frame the outdoor views. The Great room towers to over 25 feet with a beamed ceiling and partially surrounded by the wood and metal railings of the upper loft area. This very special home features two primary suites, each with its own fireplace and luxurious bath. The Great room floor plan blends the the living, dining and kitchen areas altogether. Between the the Great room and dining area is a ... wet bar with wine and beverage coolers as well as a sumptuous powder room. The dining area has room for family and guests. The country kitchen is a chefs delight with a large butcher board and granite center island, Viking appliances and a walk-in pantry. You enter the outdoor patio deck from either the Great room or kitchen. Its a great place to enjoy the fabulous views, relax in the hot tub, or to enjoy a barbecue. The main level laundry/craft room is the access into the large 3 car garage. The lower walk-out level includes a large media/game room with a large sitting area with fireplace and a separate area for the pool table. This all opens to two covered patios with similar golf course and mountain views as the main deck above. The lower level also includes 2 bedrooms, a large bunk room, 2 baths and two large mechanical closets with an abundance of storage. The loft includes a comfy office, a large seating area and half bath (This seating area can easily be converted to a spacious guest en-suite by adding a shower to the half bath). High end finishes abound in including ledge stone and steal fireplace surrounds, hardwood flooring, floating vanities, custom wood and metal railings and beamed and tongue & groove ceiling treatments. This is Pine Canyon living at its best.
12913 N 119th Street
Scottsdale, AZ 85259
$5,600,000
7
Beds
11
Baths
11,548
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6743300
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
BREATHTAKING VIEWS, ULTIMATE PRIVACY AND ENTERTAINER'S DREAM in this guard gated golf club community. Perched on a hill in the back of the neighborhood, this home gives you the feeling of being on top of the world as you step out onto one of the many balconies where you can enjoy unobstructed views of Camelback Mountain and the shimmering city lights below. Imagine hosting ultimate gatherings in a home that's designed for entertaining! This paradise offers your very own movie theater, billiard room with bar, fitness center with sauna, wine cellar, sprawling open-concept living and kitchen area that flows effortlessly into a fully equipped bar and outdoor patio. A spa and 2 beautiful pools with waterfalls share a private courtyard space. Main house includes a separate guest quarters -- along with an additional detached guest house adjacent to the courtyard pool. Even a 7 CAR GARAGE including space for an RV or boat! This home is more than just a place to live - it's a venue for experiences....a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life while still being close to all amenities and events Scottsdale has to offer!
10701 E Jomax Road Unit 1
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$5,575,000
5
Beds
5
Baths
5,000
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6707666
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
A striking 'Moditerranean' from Temac Development and Candelaria Design Associates - Situated on 2.5 Acres, this classic estate boasts some of the best views in the area with privacy and seclusion. Unobstructed views of Pinnacle Peak, Troon Mountain, and Troon Country Club, all with the freedom of no HOA. Nearby world-class Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale. Your inquiry to this iconic estate is welcomed.
24779 N 91st Street
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$5,500,000
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
5,010
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6779265
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
NEW 2024 CONSTRUCTION contemporary masterpiece awaits in prestigious North Scottsdale Solitude community, situated on a premier lot with breathtaking south-facing views of the McDowell Mountains, Camelback Mountain, open desert, and sparkling city lights. A true architectural gem designed by Swaback Architects and built by Sonora West Development, this 5000+ square feet 4-bedroom, 4.5-bathroom with a den or office space blends seamlessly into the desert landscape with clean lines and an eye-catching façade. Inside, the modern minimalist open concept design is equipped with advanced Smart Home technology, ensuring every modern convenience is within reach and welcoming you with soaring ceilings, oak wood floors, custom chandeliers, and high-end finishes throughout. Expansive retractable doors lead to a stunning South-facing outdoor living area, where the outdoor views are just as remarkable as the interior finishes. This resort inspired space features a heated pool and spa, stone paver decking, custom fire pit, and barbecue area with stone finishes. The custom designed landscape includes stone paver patios, turf, desert plantings, and stylish block and metal fencing, all visible from covered patios with wood tongue-and-groove ceilings. This Arizona desert retreat is truly a ready-to-enjoy oasis.
Amado
AZ 85645
$5,500,000
18
Beds
14
Baths
2,197
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6682628
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Tucked away at the base of the Santa Rita Mountains, yet close to Tucson, GreenValley and Tubac, lies this 160-acre horse and cattle ranch. Immediately adjacent to it is an accompanying 6,000-acre state cattle grazing lease, where one can ride, hike, nature watch, or hunt. This exceptional Ranch features many amenities including 2 residences (1972, 2017) suitable for owners or family situated on the Headquarters parcel and 4 homes suitable for guests or crew. Verdant irrigated pastures, beautiful old mesquite trees and breathtaking views of Elephant Head Butte and the Santa Cruz River make this retreat unique. Cherished as a private family homestead for many years, this land dates back to the historic Canoa Land Grant and was later owned by the Amado family for which the town is named.
10627 E Hedgehog Place
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$5,500,000
4
Beds
5.5
Baths
5,873
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6702937
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
PINNACLE PEAK HILLSIDE CUSTOM RESORT HOME: Perched high on the mountain, backs to ''The Rocks'' and Four Seasons. The main house is 4917 sf with 360 degree views and features reclaimed solid wood floors, rustic beam ceilings & organic stones incorporated throughtout, Huge Chef's Kitchen with Double Sub Zero and Wolf apppliances. Kitchen is open to the dining area with two 10' tall vanishing patio doors. Primary bedroom has fireplace/private deck to the outside living areas. Two more bedrooms, lower level and very private den/office with expensive views. Extraordinary Guest House is over 900 square feet w/Bedroom, separate Living Room, Kitchen Area, W/D, & Full Bath. Complete home automation w/remote access to control temperature, lighting, alarm and pool & spa and Automated shades. Multiple fireplaces, patios & private balconies showcase panoramic views of boulder outcroppings, mountains & city lights to the north. Pool and spa with water fall features and slide. Outdoor covered kitchen BBQ. This is one of a kind custom Sante Fe with some contemporary flair, built on the side of the mountain with expansive unobstructed views. Multiple fireplaces, private balconies, Note the beautiful large organic stones were incorporated into the architecture with rustic beams and vegas, to create opulence and charm. The private resort-style outdoor living area features self-cleaning pebbletec pool, spa, two large waterfall features, outdoor shower, and fully covered outdoor living room. All furnishings are available on separate bill of sale. See the Matterport walk through to see the floorplan and walk through the rooms. Pinnacle Peak, Tom's Thumb, Granite Mt Visitors Center Hiking are hiking trails within walking distance. Scottsdale National Golf Course is minutes away. This feels like Hotel Arizona.
6228 N Cattletrack Road
Scottsdale, AZ 85250
$5,500,000
5
Beds
8.5
Baths
5,161
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6724076
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This to be built prime 1.9-acre parcel is located just south of Lincoln on the Scottsdale/Paradise Valley border, placing you in the heart of Scottsdale's best shopping, restaurants, and golf courses. Originally two parcels now combined you get one of the larges lots in the area. The property has approved plans with car garage, multiple dwellings and luxurious design by Kendle Design collaborative. Price reflects lots and completed plans and engineering. Don't miss this incredible opportunity to live the Scottsdale lifestyle!
20242 N 103rd Way Unit 1246
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$5,500,000
5
Beds
5.5
Baths
5,463
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6778867
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Esteemed location in Silverleaf, desirably located in the Windgate Pass guard gate this stunning custom ranch estate is beaming with charm and character. Architecturally striking curb appeal with welcoming grass front yard with spacious entertaining courtyard with fireplace and covered porch entry. Well-designed home plan offers functionality and sophistication, with the great room as the heart of the home anchored with a grand stone fireplace with soaring wood beam lined ceilings and wrap around wet bar, spacious secondary ensuite bedrooms, executive office and plus den with dual access to great room and secondary bedroom wing, this gem offers optimal living experiences. Inviting kitchen oversized eat in island opens to front covered porch convenient for relaxing and unwinding, or perfect for social gatherings in front courtyard. Refined style, with impressive details woven throughout including wood accented ceilings with beams, tongue/groove, coffered, and brick features, stone and wood flooring, and wood window shutters. Enchanting backyard boasts Sonoran Mountain views featuring heated pool and spa with lounging hardscape, expansive covered patio with fireplace, built-in BBQ and ramada for entertaining, firepit with sitting area, and generous turfed grass area. Sought after location, conveniently located near neighborhood parks and lake, this ranch one story with no stairs or step downs will impressive the most discerning clients.