Fall is a favorite season for many New Englanders. As we exit the summer heat for the more stable fall temperatures (well, most of the time), you may feel compelled to get outside and get that exterior paint job done that you have been putting off all summer. But, not so fast! There are a few key things that you should know before you put brush to the exterior. So today, we’re going over 4 essential tips for painting your home in the fall.
1. Follow A Painting Schedule
As we continue to head into the fall season, it’s important to note that sunset comes a lot sooner than before. For this reason, it’s important that you schedule your painting time during optimal hours. You’ll find that that you’ll get the best temperatures for your painting project if you keep working hours between 10 am and 3 pm.
2. Consider The Declining Temperatures
Speaking of temperatures, it’s important to take note of the declining temperatures throughout the season. Outside making sure that you dress appropriately for the weather, you should keep in mind that low temperatures cause slower drying times, so plan accordingly.
Keep An Eye On The Daily Dew Point
You’ll also want to keep a watchful eye on those dew points, defined as “the atmospheric temperature (varying according to pressure and humidity) below which water droplets begin to condense and dew can form,” by Oxford Languages dictionary.
Paints, including stains and primers, should not be applied if surface temperatures are less than 5° higher than the day’s dew point. This way, you’ll avoid not-so-appealing blotting on your freshly painted exterior surfaces.
3. Be Patient: Wait 24 Hours Before A 2nd Coat
We know, we know, you’re very excited and want to leap into the 2nd coat of paint right away. But, as we’ve mentioned above, temperatures are declining, making drying times last a little bit longer than they would in the spring or summer. Taking this into consideration, you’ll want to wait for about 24-hours before applying your next coat of paint onto your home’s exterior.
4. Begin Painting On The Sunnier Side of Your House
While declining temperatures may put a damper on your 2nd coat efforts, you can actually use the sun’s daily cycle to help dry your paint quicker. Be sure to start on the sunny side of your house first, working around your home as the sun moves over during the day. This way, your painting will receive direct sunlight, allowing it to dry quicker.
Contact Professional Painters Near You
Sometimes, the best way to get the job done right is by contacting a professional painting company near you, such as the crew here at All-Pro Painters. Our team knows all the tips and trips for ensuring a quality job well done no matter the season and a project that stays on time and on budget.
So, if you’re feeling nervous about painting by yourself, allow us to lend you a hand! And when we say “lend you a hand,” we mean that we’ll take care of everything while you enjoy a nice cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate inside your warm home. Not a bad deal, right?