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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7636 E Thornwood Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$577,500

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,700 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6730272

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Accepting backup offers! Welcome to your meticulously maintained abode—a harmonious blend of comfort and style. Here's what makes it shine: Modern Upgrades: In 2022, all plumbing received a complete update, ensuring worry-free living. And in 2023, a brand-new roof was completed. Tile Elegance: Wood-like tile flows seamlessly throughout, creating a warm ambiance. But step into the Arizona room, and you'll find charming Saltillo tiles—a nod to the Southwest. Crisp Kitchen: White shaker cabinets grace the kitchen, offering ample storage. Quartz countertops sparkle, inviting culinary adventures. Picture yourself sipping morning coffee at the breakfast bar. Low-Maintenance Bliss: The front and backyard require minimal effort. Paver Perfection: The driveway—crafted with precision pavers. And the epoxy-coated carport practical and is stylish. Community Comforts: As part of the 55+ community, you'll enjoy camaraderie, activities, and a sense of belonging. It's more than a house; it's a lifestyle. Ready to Unpack: No stress here just move in and relish coffee through the French doors off the main suite to your patio.

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9038 W Orchid Lane Peoria, AZ 85345

$577,500

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,437 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6738790

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Seller Concession Available ! Beautifully maintained single-story home nestled in a gated community on a quiet Cul-De-Sac. The kitchen is a chef's dream with granite countertops, a large island adorned with pendant lights, a gas cooktop, stainless steel appliances & LED lighting, all complemented by high ceilings. The split floor plan includes a versatile flex room, perfect for a home office or playroom. The luxurious primary bathroom boasts a soaking tub & a spacious frosted glass tiled shower, alongside a generous walk-in closet. The 3-car garage provides ample storage space. Enjoy the low-maintenance backyard, complete with artificial turf, a dog run, an RV gate, a kids' play structure. Plus, there are no two-story homes behind the property, ensuring privacy. Conveniently located, close to The Westgate Entertainment Complex! This home offers both tranquility and entertainment at your doorstep.

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43227 W Caven Drive Maricopa, AZ 85138

$577,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

3,955 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6758139

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Must see this GORGEOUS HACIENDA home located in Pecan Groves, Maricopa's most desirable community! This multi-level floorpan with 5 Beds & 3 Baths + LOFT is accented by soaring ceiling & Travertine Tile! Create an incredible life with this 3,901 Sq ft nestled in the GREAT- The Villages of Rancho El Dorado. CHECK OUT THE SPECTACULAR VIEW of the LAKE and the GREAT AMENITIES as YOU enter the subdivision ! You'll love the beautiful Grand Front Porch! Bright open floor plan w/ separate living room & dining room, Lovely KITCHEN w/ Stunning Granite Counter Tops, S/S Appliances w/ Double Oven, Gas Stove & Dishwasher, S/S French door Refrigerator & Microwave Oven.

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2352 W Willow Breeze Road Chino Valley, AZ 86323

$577,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,512 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6728432

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This gorgeous home sits on 3.45 acres of fully fenced property offering breathtaking views from your whole property. The large circular driveway offers more than enough room for parking and guests. The interior of the home is elegantly done, with modern finishes including tile throughout, quartz countertops and a butcher block island. Both bathrooms are well finished with tile and upgraded vanities. The large patio is a perfect place for entertaining or just enjoying the amazing views. The property also features is a large detached shop as well as being equipped for horses and other livestock with stables, tack shed and separately fenced portions of the property. Brand new roof!

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3536 N Snead Drive Goodyear, AZ 85395

$577,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,466 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6748270

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this beautifully updated home + casita w/ full bath surrounded by a private backyard oasis featuring multiple entertaining areas, covered patio & gorgeous water feature. Charming courtyard entrance with pavers. Elegant Great Rm with vaulted ceilings & French doors to patio, game table or dining area & entertainment area with media cabinet. Rich wood cabinets, granite counters, stylish tile backsplash, SS appliances incl gas stove (new in 2012), portable prep-bar, walk in pantry & breakfast bar. The primary suite offers a cozy sitting area, patio access, bathroom with dual sinks, shower & walk-in closet. Addtl guest bdrm, full bath, home office/den. Travertine tile throughout home. Re-imagined laundry/craft room with extra storage. GORGEOUS HOME!

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23131 E Twin Acres Drive Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$576,990

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,264 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6766341

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Brand new phase!. Our popular Sage plan is conveniently located to all that Queen Creek has to offer. Minutes from the brand new Costco, Schnepf Farms, Queen Creek Market Place and the Queen Creek Olive Mill.

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3131 N Central Avenue Unit 6021 Phoenix, AZ 85012

$576,913

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,125 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6568555

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.

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18231 E Coronado Cave Court Rio Verde, AZ 85263

$576,862

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,678 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6630554

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this brand new home in the desirable Trilogy at Verde River community! This is the Valletta model and offers 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and stunning upgrades throughout! Featuring upgraded flooring, upgraded stained cabinets throughout, a R/O system, and tankless water heater. The kitchen is gorgeous with Quartz countertops and Chevron tiled backsplash! The primary suite is spacious with a lavish ensuite bathroom featuring a dual sink vanity, tiled shower, and a walk-in closet! Do not miss out on this beautiful home! The amenities at Verde River are World Class with Tom Lehman inspired eighteen-hole Golf course, tennis courts, pickleball courts, and bocce ball, heated lap pool and Resort style swimming pool, hot tub, Afterburn fitness center, Helen's demonstration Kitchen for cooking classes and a 7.5 acre dog park. The community center has casual poolside dining at Eddy's Diner and gourmet dining at award-winning Needle Rock Kitchen and Tap, Alvea Spa with full-service Salon and Spa amenities, Art Loft and events center. Trilogy at Verde River is adjacent to the Tonto National Forest and is situated in the middle of miles and miles of hiking and biking trails.

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2225 W Peak View Road Phoenix, AZ 85085

$576,500

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,313 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6764557

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Rare Find! Wonderful ''family friendly'', 4 bed/ 2 bath Home! Single level, 7000+ sq. ft. lot, heated pool W/water fall feature,& lush, mature fruit trees!! Perfect condition! Easy access to I17 Expressway! W/Plenty of nearby shopping & Restaurants in the Norterra area of N. Phoenix & hiking trails just steps away in the Sonoran Preserve! Ideal N/S Exposure! Home features a large, open Greatroom, Vaulted ceilings & neutral paint! 18'' neutral tile T/O except carpet in bedrooms! Totally re-painted inside & out in late 2023/24! Tile & grout just cleaned; outdoor kool deck resurfaced! Open & bright kitchen W/plenty of cabinets! New S.S. appliances, kitchen faucet! Plus HUGE walk-in pantry. Spacious Master bedroom W/ensuite full bath & separate exit to the backyard patio & Paradise! Must See!

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12012 W Parkway Lane Avondale, AZ 85323

$576,310

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,480 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6741797

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Explore this must-see Alden home, ready for quick move-in! Included features: a covered entry; a gourmet kitchen showcasing 42'' cabinets, quartz countertops, stainless-steel appliances, a center island and a roomy walk-in pantry; an open dining nook with center-meet patio doors; an inviting great room; a thoughtfully designed primary suite offering an oversized walk-in closet and a private bath with double sinks; three secondary bedrooms; two additional baths; a convenient laundry and a tranquil covered patio. This home also boasts impressive 10' ceilings, 9'' x 35'' stone tile flooring, cultured marble bath countertops, extra windows and ceiling fan prewiring in select rooms, front yard landscaping and concrete pavers at the walkway and driveway.

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3355 Rising Sun Ridge Wickenburg, AZ 85390

$575,950

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,543 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6745962

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Amazing off-the-grid, very well-maintain cozy house, sitting on a premium lot. Features: high tech appliances, walk-in pantry, spacious master bedroom, built-in vacuum system, solar panels with bird proofing, inverter and storage batteries. House has an extended length garage with beautiful epoxy floor and installed shelves on the walls. House stays attached to the grid in order to sell excess electricity to APC. House is energy efficient in many ways. A Trane XV20i Variable Speed Heat Pump (20 SEER) with 4-ton Hyperion Air Handler was installed in 2022. In 2023 the complete exterior of the house painted, windows and seams caulked. Deal includes an EZ-GO RXV (golf cart) with replaced batteries.

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9229 E Spiral Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$575,700

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,224 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6755701

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

BRAND NEW MOVE IN READY HOME! This SLOAN plan includes a DELUXE gourmet kitchen, white cabinets, black pulls, quartz counter tops, subway tile backsplash, upgraded tile and carpet flooring, and Apple Pod Smart Home Kit. READY SEP!

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