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

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

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Sort by: Select Price, Low to High Price, High to Low Newer Listings First Older Listings First Open House Date

9858 E Seismic Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$589,990

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,963 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6748278

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Ready End of September!! Near all the amenities and park area. 3 Bedrooms and a den with 12ft slider, Quartz counter tops, 42'' Stone Grey Cabinets with black hardware, Subway tile backsplash, gas cooktop with hooded vent, built in wall micro and oven, wood look tile and upgraded carpet in bedrooms!! Great sized backyard with plenty of room for a pool, extended covered patio to enjoy and partial view of mountains. Lots of great upgrades come see for yourself! Don't miss out this is the last home at Enchantment!

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22312 W Hammond Drive Buckeye, AZ 85326

$589,950

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,654 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6705232

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to Buckeye, Arizona! This newly renovated home offers breathtaking mountain views. Situated on over an acre of land, this property is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Step inside to discover a meticulously updated interior, boasting new appliances & modern finishes throughout. The spacious floor plan is perfect for entertaining, with ample natural light & stunning views. Outside, the expansive grounds have been beautifully landscaped, creating a serene oasis for relaxation & recreation. Practice your putting on the custom golf greens, or explore the nearby trails on horseback, as this property allows for horses. RV parking provides convenience for travel enthusiasts, while the proximity to the fastest-growing city in Arizona ensures access to all the amenities and opportunities Buckeye has to offer. Don't miss your chance to own this unparalleled slice of paradise in Buckeye - come check out and fall in love with your forever home!

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Show Low AZ 85901

$589,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,448 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6731512

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Your search is over for the Perfect Getaway Cabin in the Pines! Formal Model so has beautiful finishes throughout. This beauty conveys furnished so you can immediately come relax & enjoy the White Mountains. Nestled in the Tall Pines on apx .53 of an acre on a corner lot, landscaped & fenced. WOW! Call for more details...

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1124 S Sycamore Circle Unit 1 Payson, AZ 85541

$589,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,650 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6700921

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

New custom build Has completed! Amazing views of the Mogollon Rim and the town of Payson! This spectacular home sits in a cul-de-sac, and is located adjacent to vacant land for complete privacy to the rear of the home.

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16462 W Lava Drive Surprise, AZ 85374

$589,900

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,870 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6767563

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover this popular Palo Verde model nestled on the 7th green of Granite Falls South Golf Course, offering breathtaking views of the course and White Tank Mountains. The home features a spacious 3-car garage with fresh paint and garage floor. Enjoy natural light streaming through bay windows in the kitchen and primary bedroom. This meticulously maintained residence boasts recent updates, including freshly painted interior and garage 2024 a new A/C system installed in 2018 and fresh exterior paint in 2022. Relax and soak in the stunning views from the back patio. The Grand is a premier age-restricted community for those 45 and older, offering a variety of amenities such as golf, pools, spas, pickleball, tennis, and more.

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6501 W Molly Lane Phoenix, AZ 85083

$589,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,078 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6771053

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This rare, one-story gem sits on a corner lot & backs directly to a serene mountain preserve, providing both views/sunsets & total PRIVACY! Step inside to find a bright, open-concept great room. Newly updated kitchen showcases modern stainless steel appliances, gas cooktop, charming farmhouse sink, upgraded faucet, pendant lighting & more! Primary BR is spacious with fully remodeled bathroom and stand alone soaking tub, quartz double vanity. Other features inc: Water Softener, R/O, Garage Floor Epoxy, professional paint throughout, replaced outlets, door hardware, ceiling fans, Ring security, yearly A/C tune ups, replaced Garage Rollers, New Thermostat, surround sound, etc. Don't miss this opportunity to own a truly unique property w/peaceful setting, modern conveniences at a great value

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39724 N Rolling Green Way Anthem, AZ 85086

$589,900

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,815 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6744991

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Stunning 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home is located in the highly sought-after Anthem Parkside community! Boasting a detached 240 sq. ft. casita with a private entrance - perfect for guests, a home office, or a gym. Inside, you'll find stylish tile flooring with plush carpeting in all the right places. The large primary bedroom features an ensuite bathroom with double sinks and ample closet space. A versatile loft area offers additional living space or a playroom. The 2-car garage provides plenty of storage, and the home is part of a vibrant community with top-notch amenities including parks, pools, and trails. Located in the heart of Anthem, this home offers both comfort and convenience.

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16182 W Casa Bonita Court Surprise, AZ 85374

$589,900

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,529 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6768602

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome Home! This Cordova Model Features New Roof 2024, HVAC Replaced in 2021, Exterior Painted 2021, 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths, Electric Stove/Oven, Newer Microwave, Black Slate Whirlpool Refrigerator, RO, Inside Laundry with Cabinets, 3 Car Garage with Sink, Recirculating Hot Water, Lots of Storage, Exit to Rear Yard, on Large cul-de-sac, Extended Front Courtyard, Extended Rear Patio Partially Fence,

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1382 W Chillingham Road San Tan Valley, AZ 85143

$589,900

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,679 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6775708

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this stunning beauty in the gated neighborhood of Magnolia Circle. This incredible home features four bedrooms, three and half bathrooms and multiple living areas for a large family! The breathtaking kitchen features a large open concept for a chef and entertainer's dream. Step to the backyard and discover a newly constructed play pool! This home truly has it all at a price that will not last.

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2218 W Curry Street Chandler, AZ 85224

$589,900

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,040 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6774650

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to Your Dream Family Home! Fall in love with this stunning North Chandler residence featuring 4 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, and a Sparkling Pool—perfect for Family Fun and Relaxation! This beautiful Home boasts impressive Curb Appeal with a Spacious 2-Car Garage and an RV Gate for all your toys and adventures. Step inside to discover a Bright and Inviting Interior, highlighted by a completely remodeled Chef's Kitchen. Enjoy Upgraded Premium Cabinetry, a large Kitchen Island, Granite Countertops, and a cozy Eat-in Dining area, all complemented by elegant Tile Flooring and Soft Carpet in just the right places. The welcoming Living Room features French doors that lead to your own oasis—a Crystal-Clear Pool surrounded by a Covered Patio. The Oversized Main retreat is a true sanctuary, offering His and Hers Closets, a resort-style Ensuite Shower, and easy access to the backyard patio through more French Doors. Additional highlights include a Soft Water System, Dual-Pane Windows, recent Attic Insulation, and a Drop-Down Ladder in the Garage for extra storage. Both front and backyards are equipped with a Sprinkler System, and the New Turf creates a low-maintenance, green space. Enjoy modern conveniences with a 3-Stage Efficient Pool Motor, an Outdoor Hot and Cold Shower by the Pool, and Wi-Fi-controlled A/C thermostat and Garage Door. Located in a peaceful neighborhood, this home is surrounded by Parks and Common Areas, perfect for family outings and community fun. Don't miss this incredible opportunity....this gem is priced to sell!

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4602 E Monte Way Phoenix, AZ 85044

$589,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,735 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6682751

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Price Reduction!!! Excellent Golf Course Lot has the views but far enough away to be private & very few if any golf balls*Corner lot*Mountain Views*Home is a block away from South Mtn Park*Private In Ground Heated Spa*Multiple Patio Areas*Wood Shutters*Tile Floors Through-out*Vaulted Ceilings*Newer Heat Pump*Split Bdrm Plan*3rd Bdrm Can be Den or Bdrm*Nicely landscaped*Community pools & spas*

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20038 N 21st Street Phoenix, AZ 85024

$589,900

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,784 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6687430

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Come see this beautiful 4 bedroom, single level home with a pool in a quiet hidden alcove neighborhood in north Phoenix. This home features: plank tile flooring, quartz countertops in the kitchen, a 3 car garage, NO HOA, full length rear covered patio, pebble tec swimming pool, ceiling fans throughout, newer windows, updated fixtures throughout, dual sinks in both bathrooms, a nice open & flowing floor plan, vaulted ceilings, & brand new hot water tank (2024). This neighborhood is extremely quiet, with gorgeous mountain views, easy access to the 101, & has a lot of great restaurants and shopping close by (Costco is up the street, multiple public parks, Desert Ridge shopping & restaurants). Also close by is the Arrowhead Mall area, Westgate shopping & Arizona Cardinals stadium. NO HOA!!

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