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.

Click Here to See What Your Home is Worth

11562 N 162nd Lane Surprise, AZ 85379

$584,900
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,922 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6749232
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this beautiful 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home with an oversized kitchen and pool in the backyard! The great room showcases high ceilings, a neutral palette, blinds for privacy, and a combination of soft carpet and tile flooring. The spotless kitchen offers granite counters, abundant cabinetry, pendant/recessed lighting, SS appliances, and an oversize island with a breakfast bar. Den/Office and a bedroom are located on the main floor. Upstairs, the cozy loft provides additional living space. The main bedroom includes an ensuite with dual sinks, and a walk-in shower. Venture outside to the serene backyard, complete with a covered patio, low-maintenance artificial turf, and a sparkling pool. Make this gem yours!

26964 N 104th Lane Peoria, AZ 85383

$584,900
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,605 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6733026
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to Northlands Encore in North Peoria, the best value for the money in the area, where the skies are bigger and the sunset glow fills the sky with radiant pink, orange, and purple. Step outside every morning and view the beautiful Calderwood Butte out your front door, with private backyard mountain views and the trail head right down the street, you'll get the full enjoyment of this very special home in an extraordinary community. Step inside this move-in ready 2-story Amethyst Model by Taylor Morrison, with over 2605 sq. ft. of living space, 4 BED + LOFT + 3 BATH, and a 2 CAR temp controlled garage. NEW CARPET was just installed in the living room and throughout the entire 2nd level! The main level features an open concept main living area, light and bright neutral color pallet throughout, white trim, blinds, and doors. Convenient main-level bedroom and full bath, currently used as a home gym. Open concept kitchen and dining area with light gray tile floors, can-lighting, contrasting twilight cabinets, dark gray granite countertops and island, a stainless steel GE appliance package, and a walk-in pantry for all your storage needs. The upper level features a large open loft, which can be used as another living space, office, or game area. Master suite with full master bath, featuring a tub and shower combo, double sinks, and a walk-in closet. Split floor plan with 2 additional bedrooms and a full bathroom. Step out back and take a deep breath, with no back neighbors and beautiful mountain views. Large, brick paver covered patio w/fan, outdoor kitchen w/ serving area for dining outdoors, centered green space with a play area to the side. SOLAR will be paid at closing! Neighborhood and property mountain views, close proximity to 303 freeway access, shopping, dining, entertainment, health care, and less than 20 min. away from beautiful Lake Pleasant Regional Park. A list of full updates available in the documents tab, there truly is nothing to do except move in.

926 N 97th Way Mesa, AZ 85207

$584,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,651 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6747081
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautiful to be built Modern Farmhouse home with NO HOA! This incredible home includes 1,651 SQFT, 3 large bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, an oversized 2 car garage, open floor plan & kitchen, white quartz counter tops, upgraded stainless steel appliances, farmers sink, modern cabinets, built in soaking tub & double vanities in the primary bathroom, fully fenced backyard, horse privileges, the ability to build a casita or RV garage, & so much more!

2166 S 217th Lane Buckeye, AZ 85326

$584,900
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
3,523 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6729300
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This spectacular two-story home is perfect for a large family with plenty of room to spread out! Enjoy New Paint outside, new carpet, a water softener, and OWNED solar panels for energy efficiency. Downstairs offers eat in kitchen to entertain your guests with ease. Upstairs boasts four spacious bedrooms with ample closet space. The master bedroom has French doors, walk-in closet and garden tub plus separate shower. Step outside to find your own private oasis complete with brand new sparkling pool, landscaping and views of the desert green belt! Plus there's an extended driveway, three car garage, RV gate and plenty of slab parking. This home is located conveniently close to shopping, restaurants, easy freeway access, hiking & more!

18411 N 46th Place Phoenix, AZ 85032

$584,900
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,748 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6754654
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this spacious 2-story home offering 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. The home features a bright and airy main level with a spacious living room, kitchen, and a separate dining area. Just a few steps down, discover an inviting family room and convenient half bath, ideal for family and friend gatherings! Upstairs, you'll find the master suite complete with a private ensuite bath, alongside additional bedrooms. You can enjoy the convenience of a two-car garage. This home provides ample parking and storage options. Lastly stepped into your backyard that has a brand new pool that the homeowner designed with endless taste and design. Set up your showing today and lets get you into your new home.

3131 N Central Avenue Unit 5022 Phoenix, AZ 85012

$584,900
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,125 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6420046
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
*Construction completed* 5% BUYER INCENTIVE! Introducing Edison Midtown Phase 2 with 60 new construction condominiums. This spacious two bedroom condo offers ten ft. ceilings, an open floor plan, and large master bedroom with ensuite bathroom. Chefs kitchen offers expansive cabinetry, quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances including a gas range. Edison Midtown features incredible amenities for that perfect Urbanite lifestyle. A beautiful pool and lap pool, 2000 sq. ft. fitness center and lounge, and gated parking garage.

6078 E Southern Avenue Apache Junction, AZ 85119

$584,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,844 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6720211
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Exceptional property nestled on an acre lot, perfect for horse lovers! Near the Superstition Mountains, this BEAUTIFULLY REMODELED home offers breathtaking views & a serene environment. Providing 3 beds, 2 baths, & a 2-car garage. Highly upgraded interior showcases fresh neutral paint, tons of natural light, and wood-look flooring w/carpet in bedrooms. If entertaining is on your mind, you'll love the spacious open layout adorned w/a cozy fireplace! The renewed kitchen boasts SS appliances, quartz counters, recessed & pendant lighting, white shaker cabinetry, and an island w/breakfast bar. Main bedroom has a spotless bathroom w/tiled step-in shower. Relax under the covered patio of your expansive backyard! Plenty of room for parking, gardens, and horse/animal facilities! Move-in ready

1300 W 7th Street Tempe, AZ 85281

$584,900
6 Beds
4 Baths
2,441 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6733783
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
**AMAZING 6bd/4bath HOME ON A HUGE LOT IN THE HEART OF TEMPE & NEAR ASU!** This is the perfect investment or rental property! Featuring: 2441 sq.ft of Living Space, Fresh Interior Paint, easily maintained Tile, Formal Living Room, Massive Family Room, Dining Area, Kitchen with Refinished Cabinets, Gas Stove, Refrigerator & Dishwasher, 6 Good Sized Bedrooms, 4 bathrooms (1 Newly Remodeled)+ A HUGE FLEX ROOM (potential 7th bedroom), Upgraded Dual Pane Windows, Custom Fans & AC is serviced regularly. Washer/Dryer & additional Refrigerator included. Flex Room at the back of the home also has separate entry. The Giant Family Room is perfect for a large game room/office/home theater and has 2 additional closets for extra storage. NO HOA, perfect for AIRBNB, Rental or a Large Family Home! This home is perched on almost a 10,000sf lot and has and additional storage shed on a slab in the backyard that provides tons of extra storage space. Your extended driveway has enough slab spaces in the front to park at least 7 cars. Location is walking distance from Mill Ave shops and restaurants/entertainment + ASU! This is a must see property!!!

4245 S Boulder Street Gilbert, AZ 85297

$584,900 - 5Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Villages At Val Vista Phase 2, Gilbert
Open House
$584,900
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,402 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6727334
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This beautiful 5-bedroom, 3-bath, 2-story home features new carpet in the bedrooms and fresh interior paint throughout, creating a welcoming ambiance. The open kitchen and living area boast stainless steel appliances, including a dishwasher, microwave, and range, perfect for modern living. Upstairs, you'll find a spacious loft and additional bedrooms, providing ample space for family and guests.

2620 Nelson Lane Chino Valley, AZ 86323

$584,335 - 3Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Final Plat For Heritage Pointe Phs 2,3,&4, Chino Valley
Open House
$584,335
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,076 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6776580
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
AVAILABLE NOW I Move-In Ready on a 1 Acre Lot! Welcome to Arizona's High Desert, a luxurious neighborhood offering a unique experience for those seeking spacious living and a love for the outdoors! Situated on 1-acre homesites, our community is designed to provide ample space and privacy while enjoying the cooler desert climate. Heritage Pointe offers 7 distinct floorplans, modern amenities, open-concept layouts with designer finishes. For those enjoying travel, opt for a floorplan that includes an RV Garage! You won't want to miss out; plan a visit with us today.

4170 Apache Drive Happy Jack, AZ 86024

$584,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,605 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6722854
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This charming single-family home is the perfect place to call your own. With 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a spacious floor plan, this property offers all the space and comfort you need. Step inside and be greeted by the warm knotty pine doors and baseboard, wood trim around all dual pane windows, giving the home a cozy and rustic feel. The vaulted ceiling adds to the open and airy atmosphere, while the vinyl plank flooring and newer carpet upstairs add a touch of modern elegance. The remodeled kitchen is a true centerpiece, featuring designer copper drawer pulls, granite countertops, and a countersunk sink. Whether you're cooking a gourmet meal or grabbing a quick bite, this kitchen is sure to impress. The master bedroom is a true retreat, complete with a sitting area, oversized reach-in closets, and walk out balcony covered for privacy with your morning coffee. levelor cordless up down blinds throughout as well as honeycomb blinds on the french door. The remodeled bathrooms offer copper sinks, granite counters, and a luxurious jetted tub perfect for relaxing at the end of a long day. Outside, you'll find 3 large covered porches for added outdoor living space, ideal for enjoying the pleasant Arizona weather. The fenced-in dog run is perfect for pet owners, while the raised garden area allows you to exercise your green thumb. Additional features of this property include a tuff shed for extra storage, a 2-car detached garage, and mature trees that provide shade and privacy. The exterior paint is less than 3 years old, giving the home a fresh and inviting look, upgraded porch lights add the perfect finishing touches. Not only is this home beautifully appointed, but it is also surrounded by desirable forest trails for hiking and biking, lakes for fishing and Blue Ridge Reservoir for the kayakers. This home comes furnished and is turn key ready for you to move in. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to own a piece of Happy Jack. Contact us today to make this dream home yours.

10439 W Cashman Drive Peoria, AZ 85383

$584,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
3,098 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6732281
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
5BR/3BA WITH 3,098 SF LOCATED IN THE GORGEOUS COMMUNITY OF CASA DEL REY AT CAMINO A LAGO! GOURMET KITCHEN WITH UPGRADED CABINETS, PANTRY, BREAKFAST BAR & GRANITE COUTERTOPS. NEWER PAINT & LVT FLOORING THROUGHOUT HOME. SEPARATE LIVING & DINING AREA PROVIDES PLENTY OF SPACE TO RELAX. STONE FIREPLACE IN THE LIVING ROOM MAKES THIS THE FAVORITE GATHERING PLACE FOR ENTERTAINING. LARGE PRIMARY SUITE WITH SITTING AREA, DOUBLE VANITY, GLASS SHOWER & SEPARATE SOAKING TUB. ONE GUEST BEDROOM & FULL BATH DOWNSTAIRS. ELECTRIC VEHICLE NEMA 14-50 AVAILABLE IN GARAGE. BOTH AC UNITS PURCHASED JAN 2021 W/10 YR WARRANTY. WATER HEATER PURCHASED JUN 2021. GUTTERS INSTALLED WITH BIRD/PIGEON PROTECTION WIRE ON EVES. SUN SCREENS INCLUDED ON WINDOWS. EASY ACCESS TO LAKE PLEASANT, SHOPPING, RESTAURANTS & SCHOOLS.