Need a DIY Summer Project? How to Paint Your Home’s Exterior in a Weekend or Two

Need a DIY Summer Project? How to Paint Your Home's Exterior in a Weekend or TwoIf 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.

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5 Clawson Avenue Bisbee, AZ 85603

$595,000
6 Beds
4 Baths
3,232 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6773436
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Historic Four Plex in the Heart of Old Bisbee. Two 1,000 sq ft Two Bedroom Units and Two 800 sq ft One Bedroom Units, with Original Hardwood Flooring, Built-Ins, High Ceilings, and French Doors, leading to the vast Front Porch and Balcony. Solid Allan Block construction, built in 1917 as Saint Joseph's Convent, now operating as a popular Vacation Rental. With Separate Kitchens and newer Mini-Splits for efficient Heating and Cooling.

7674 E Whispering Mesquite Lane Gold Canyon, AZ 85118

$595,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,922 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6774751
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Located in the desirable Mountainbrook Village community, this home offers stunning golf course and mountain views. This beautifully updated home features two primary bedrooms, vaulted ceilings, massive windows, and a spacious layout with high-end finishes like granite countertops and plantation shutters. Enjoy outdoor living with a tiled courtyard, covered patio, and air-conditioned garage with a separate workshop. With a central vacuum system, soft water, and RO systems, this home blends comfort and convenience, perfect for enjoying the best of Gold Canyon living. Mountainbrook Village is a scenic golf course community set against the stunning Superstition Mountains. It offers beautifully designed homes and resort-style amenities, including a golf course, fitness facilities, and social clubs. With a relaxed yet active lifestyle, it's perfect for those seeking a peaceful desert setting with plenty of recreational opportunities.

3281 N Eagles Creek Drive Show Low, AZ 85901

$595,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,737 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6751334
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled in a tranquil neighborhood, this beautiful home offers a perfect blend of comfort, style, and convenience. As you step inside, you are greeted by a spacious and open floor plan that seamlessly combines modern design with a warm and welcoming ambiance. The well-appointed kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring sleek countertops, ample cabinet space, and state-of-the-art appliances. Whether you're hosting a family gathering or enjoying a quiet meal, this kitchen is sure to impress. The living area is thoughtfully designed with a focus on both relaxation and entertainment. The generous windows fill the space with natural light, creating an inviting atmosphere for both residents and guests. Spend cozy evenings by the fireplace, creating cherished memories or unwind on lazy afternoons while enjoying your favorite book. The bedrooms are generously sized, providing a peaceful sanctuary for rest and relaxation. The master suite is a true retreat, boasting a private ensuite bathroom and ample closet space. Wake up rejuvenated and ready to take on the day in this luxurious haven. Step outside to discover a covered deck, perfect for hosting outdoor gatherings or simply enjoying the fresh air. Whether you're entertaining guests or savoring a quiet moment, the spacious deck offers a delightful space for relaxation and enjoyment. Create lasting memories as you gather around the fire pit, roast marshmallows, and share stories under the starry night sky. Located in the desirable city of Show Low, this home provides convenient access to a wealth of amenities. Explore the nearby parks, indulge in local dining, or take advantage of the recreational opportunities available in the area. With its picturesque surroundings and welcoming community, Show Low offers a quality of life that is second to none. Don't miss out on the opportunity to make 3281 N Eagles Creek Drive your forever home. Embrace a lifestyle of comfort, elegance, and convenience in this remarkable property.

1075 W Desert Aster Road San Tan Valley, AZ 85143

$595,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,897 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6705964
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
**THE MOST LUXURIOUSLY REMODELED HOME IN SOLERA AT JOHNSON RANCH** Your new home boasts a complete Interior/Exterior Remodel beyond compare! This Gem is perched on an 11,627 sq.ft. Premium Lot & features: 2Bed/2Bath+Den, Mountain Views from Front & Back, Beautiful Interior/Exterior 2-tone Custom Paint, Pavered Courtyard & Iron Security Door upon Entry, Custom Tile in all living areas, Crown Molding+Plantation Shutters & Luxurious Fixtures throughout, Chef's Kitchen w/ LG Black SS Appliances (incl: Gas Cooktop+Fridge), Quartz Countertops & Backsplash, Beautiful Cabinetry w/Underlighting, Eat-At Island + Highly Upgraded Pantry & Laundry Room. Fabulously Remodeled Bathrooms incl: Super shower in Master. Backyard has Custom Pavers, Extended Patio w/ Pergolas, the list continues-(click more).. Gas Fire Pit with Pavered Surround & Spectacular Views in all preferred sitting areas! Amazing Landscape is everywhere including other Jaw Dropping Exterior Upgrades such as: New Trees & Extensive Plantings, Complete Exterior Low-Voltage Landscape Lighting (LED), New Irrigation System (PVC) & Controller, Water Feature & 2 Stucco Planters with Paver Caps in rear yard, Front Yard Retaining Walls w/stucco masonry & paver caps, All New Exterior Coach Lights, Pavered Backyard & Front Walk. Your Premium Lot borders the common area with desert landscape in the back & one side which enhances both your Views and Privacy! This Gem must be seen to be believed! Your Garage has tons of Cabinetry, Overhead Storage Racks, Workbench, Epoxy Floors & Custom Iron Security Door (matching front door) at service entrance. This Home also includes SOLAR POWER, Newer AC(16 SEER) w/ stucco masonry enclosure, Newer 5 Ton Split Gas Furnace, 3 smart thermostats for zoned hvac system, Trash enclosure w/ stucco masonry, Newer 50-gallon Water Heater, Water Treatment System, Solar Tube Skylights added in Pantry, Laundry, Primary Closet and Guest Bath, Solar-power attic exhaust fan, Custom Ceiling Fans, Dual Pane Windows, etc. The 2 Bedrooms are a good size & the master bath finishes are simply breathtaking! The Den is a perfect flex/office space with a shiplap ceiling for that luxury feel... There are just too many elaborate upgrades to list! (See photos & Docs tab for detailed list on some of the upgrades). Solera is a 55+ Active Adult Gated Community with tons of amenities including a Private Community Center, Pool & Spa, Activity Rooms, Billiards, Bocce Ball, Fitness Center & more! San Tan Highlands Golf Course runs through the community. You have access to Johnson Ranch Amenities as well. This includes heated, outdoor pools and spas, tennis courts, pickle ball court, pitch and putt golf course, frisbee golf course, catch and release fishing pond, softball & soccer fields. DON'T MISS OUT!!! ***YOU CAN MAKE THIS YOUR FOREVER HOME!!!**

19063 N 265th Avenue Buckeye, AZ 85396

$595,000
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,864 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6707112
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
ASSUMABLE 3% FHA MORTGAGE WITH $285,000 DOWNPAYMENT, or fund a second! Get a pool, owned solar, golf and mountain views at a great price. This highly upgraded Sanctuary model with approximately 1,864 sf. has two suites, a half-bath, and a den. The home has a 2-ft. rear extension and 2-ft. extended garage which is air-conditioned. Upgraded Taupe cabinets, dark granite counters and a stainless-steel gas cooktop create contrast and brighten up the living space. An electric fireplace with a framed and tiled mantle, and accent wall paint, complements the hardwood floors in the gathering room. From the pool you can enjoy a view of the White Tank Mountains & the green at the 9th hole on the Mountain Course at Sun City Festival, Arizona's premier 55+ community.

2177 E Alameda Drive Tempe, AZ 85282

$595,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,884 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6710147
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Newly remodelled Tempe beauty at a exceptional price way below market! Such a great layout too! 3 bedroom, 2 bath, oversized 2 car with a bonus room in garage. The spacious vaulted ceilings w/ great room has pre-wired surround sound, tile flooring, a beautiful tile fireplace, and plantation shutters throughout. Remodelled kitchen has lots of white cabinets, newer stainless steel appliances, quartz counters, tile backsplash, and a convenient breakfast bar. Large primary bedroom offers bay window, direct outdoor access, a walk-in closet, and a remodelled ensuite. On the other side of the home is 2 more bedrooms & bath. Large laundry room with ample storage. Conveniently located just minutes away from golfing, ASU, shopping, restaurants, and easy access to the freeway. Great rental

2542 S Canfield -- Mesa, AZ 85209

$595,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,435 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6712560
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Meticulously maintained, original owners pride of ownership shows in this fabulous single level apacious home in the highly sought-after Mulberry planned community in Mesa, Arizona. The home features 3 bathrooms, 5 bedrooms with the owner suite split from the rest of the bedrooms. An open great room concept featuring crown molding at the ceilings here plus in hallways & primary bedroom/bath, 20x20 tile set on the diagnal all but 4 bedrooms which have wood flooring, gourmet kitchen with granite countertops plus custom full height backsplash, gas range, SS appliances, center island & walk in pantry. The outdoor space includes patio with extended pavers which include a walkway to side of home, 2 pergolas & retractable privacy screens, a custom art painted landscape scenery on rear MORE.. a custom art painted landscape scenery on rear block wall 50 ft in length. Oversized 2 car garage with 4 layer max chip floor by Epoxyology Garage Floor Coating plus four 4 ft x 8ft hanging storage racks,

9409 E Nacoma Drive Sun Lakes, AZ 85248

$595,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,443 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6713360
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Pride of ownership is apparent in this 3 bedroom, 3 bath home in the gated active adult community of Oakwood CC. The casita with separate entrance provides flexibility for guests, a home office or exercise studio. Entertain in the great room or family room with adjacent kitchen and breakfast nook. Granite counters, SS appliances, newer paint and hardware with loads of cupboard space. Retire to the primary suite with patio access, walk in closet, dual split sinks and separate shower and tub. Guests will appreciate the spacious bedroom with walk in closet and nearby bath. New AC in 2021. Newer wood look tile flooring with some carpeted areas. You'll love the large picture windows and slider leading to the backyard with expanded covered patio and lush landscaping. See upgrade list.

1357 W Port A Sail Drive Gilbert, AZ 85233

$595,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
1,797 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6741454
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This stunning waterfront home in gated community offers breathtaking views with three bedrooms, third bedroom converted to an office, and three full baths. Freshly painted, this two-story residence exudes modern elegance and charm. The gourmet kitchen boasts granite countertops, newer appliances, and opens to a sunlit dining area, perfect for entertaining. The living room, featuring water views and a wood-burning fireplace. Each bedroom serves as a private haven, with the primary suite offering a luxurious en-suite bath. Outside, the beautifully landscaped yard, complete with turf and mature trees, provides the perfect setting for relaxing and enjoying the waterfront lifestyle. 2 A/C units 2020, water heater 2021, kitchen appliances 2021, lighting and house painted 20

17983 E Vista Desierto -- Rio Verde, AZ 85263

$595,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,370 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6724151
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Spectacular 2 bedroom 2 bath home with $100,000 in upgrades in Trilogy at Verde River. Chef's kitchen features stainless steel Monogram appliances including built-in refrigerator/freezer, gas cooktop, dishwasher microwave and wall oven. Granite and quartz countertops. Magnificent glass tile backsplash. Very open great room floor plan is ideal for entertaining. Primary suite offers luxurious bath room with double sinks, built-in vanity, oversized shower. and custom walk-in closet. Private back yard with large covered patio, desert landscaping and artificial turf. Trilogy at Verde River offers an array of activities. Please visit their website for details.

3212 S Marryvale Lane Flagstaff, AZ 86005

$595,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,410 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6728129
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
RARE OPPORTUNITY for a SINGLE LEVEL in Pinnacle Pines - and it even includes A/C! Come take a look at this nicely appointed 2 bedroom home with a great layout and use of space. The split floor plan design provides privacy for each of the two bedrooms while the great room combines the Living/Kitchen/Dining into an open and comfortable gathering space. A modest sized covered deck overlooking the backyard is great for spending a relaxing afternoon enjoying the outdoors. Other wonderful features include a flat, SW facing driveway, separate laundry room, lots of extra storage in the large crawl space, and did I mention A/C? Come take a look at this great home located on a quiet cul-de-sac in Pinnacle Pines!

415 W Monterosa Street Phoenix, AZ 85013

$595,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
1,380 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6732264
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
REMODELED! $15,000 towards buyer's closing costs with acceptable offer!! Great opportunity for this beautiful home that's had a HUGE makeover including plumbing, electrical, roof and hvac. Be prepared to fall in love with the classy, modern colors and big backyard with artificial turf. The paved sitting area is perfect for outdoor dining or lounging. There's even a 300 sq ft casita with it's own entrance.! You can make it your primary home, or income property, but don't wait to make it your own! Located in the heart of Phoenix surrounded by schools, parks and amazing restaurants and shopping.