Wood is a popular material for exterior surfaces due to its natural beauty and versatility. However, wood surfaces require regular maintenance to keep them looking their best and protecting your home from the elements. One important aspect of wood maintenance is proper preparation before painting, staining, or sealing.
Our expert team specializes in exterior wood surface preparation. Malone Painting understand the importance of proper preparation for achieving a flawless result. Here’s a breakdown of the steps we follow:
Step 1: Repair
The first step in preparing exterior wood surfaces is to repair any damage. This may include replacing damaged or rotten wood, repairing cracks, holes, or gaps using wood filler or epoxy, and fixing loose boards.
Tip: Be sure to check for rot damage, especially in areas that are prone to moisture, such as around windows and doors.
Step 2: Clean
Once you have repaired any damage, the next step is to clean the paintable surfaces. This can be done using a pressure washer or a scrub brush with a soapy water solution. Be sure to remove all dirt, mildew, and loose paint.
Tip: When using a pressure washer, be careful not to damage the wood. Start with a low pressure setting and gradually increase it as needed.
Step 3: Scrape
After cleaning the surfaces, you will need to scrape off any loose, peeling, or flaking paint. This can be done using a paint scraper.
Tip: If you are dealing with a lot of peeling paint, you may need to use a paint stripper. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Step 4: Caulk
The next step is to caulk any gaps, seams, and joints around windows, doors, and trim. This will help to prevent moisture infiltration and rot.
Tip: Use a high-quality exterior caulk that is rated for use in wet climates.
Step 5: Prime
The final step in preparing exterior wood surfaces is to apply a high-quality exterior wood primer. This will help to ensure that the finish adheres properly and provides long-lasting protection.
Tip: Use a primer that is specifically formulated for use in humid climates.
In addition to the steps outlined above, there are a few other tips that you can follow to ensure that your exterior wood surfaces are properly prepared:
Choose the right products. When choosing paint, stain, or sealant, be sure to select products that are specifically designed for exterior use and that are appropriate for the type of wood you are working with.
Work in a well-ventilated area. When working with paints, stains, and sealants, be sure to work in a well-ventilated area. This will help to prevent you from inhaling harmful fumes.
Protect yourself. When working with paints, stains, and sealants, be sure to wear protective clothing, including gloves, a mask, and eye protection.
Hire a professional. Let Malone Painting handle the exterior wood preparation. If you’re not comfortable with the DIY process or simply prefer a professional touch, Malone Painting offers expert services to prepare your exterior wood surfaces for painting, staining, or sealing.
At Malone Painting, we understand the unique needs of St. Louis homeowners. From historic neighborhoods like Lafayette Square to newer developments in Chesterfield, we’ve helped countless clients bring their vision to life with expert painting services.
Here’s what sets us apart:
1. Unmatched Customer Experience
From the moment you reach out to us, you’ll notice the St. Louis Premier Painting difference. Our friendly and knowledgeable team is dedicated to making your painting project a pleasant and stress-free experience. We listen to your needs, offer expert advice, and work with you every step of the way to ensure your vision becomes a reality.
2. Clear and Consistent Communication
We believe that great communication is the foundation of a successful project. Our team prides itself on excellent communication and coordination, working closely with you to accommodate timelines and schedules. We keep everyone involved informed at every stage, ensuring a hassle-free experience from start to finish.
3. Free Color Consulting
Choosing the right color can be challenging, but we make it easy with our complimentary color consulting service. Our experts work with your clients to select the perfect shades that highlight the best features of their home. This added value not only enhances the property’s appeal but also provides peace of mind, knowing that their color choices are professionally guided.
4. We’re not done until you’re satisfied
Final Walk Through: At the end of the project, our Production Manager will conduct a final walk through with you to make sure everything is perfect. If you are not 100% satisfied, touch-ups will be scheduled.
3 Year Workmanship Guarantee: Malone Painting guarantees the quality of our work for 3 years (36 months) after the project completion date. This warranty covers peeling, blistering, cracking, flaking, and excessive chalking that occur due to improper application of paint materials under normal wear and tear. We refer to these issues as “Warranted Conditions.”
5. Locally Owned St. Louis Painting Company
We are proudly serving the greater St. Louis area. We believe in building trust through transparency. That’s why we offer upfront pricing, clear timelines, and a commitment to exceptional service. We treat every home as if it were our own, ensuring a clean and professional experience from start to finish.
Color trends for 2025 offer endless possibilities for transforming your home. Whether you prefer the calming neutrals of Sherwin-Williams, the dynamic hues of Behr, or the timeless elegance of Benjamin Moore, there’s something for everyone. With Malone Painting, you can confidently bring these trends to life, creating a space that feels fresh, inspiring, and uniquely yours.
Ready to update your St. Louis home? Contact Malone Painting today to schedule a consultation and discover how the latest color trends can elevate your living spaces.
We use only the best paints and materials, and we are always up-to-date on the latest painting techniques.
