The decision to undertake an exterior house painting project as a do-it-yourself task or to hire a professional residential painting company in Surrey involves several critical considerations. Homeowners must evaluate their previous experience with interior or exterior paint projects, as painting is a profession requiring specific tricks, methods, and risk management for accuracy and efficiency within a set timeframe. This often comes down to experience, and the task is not always as simple as applying a fresh coat of paint.
Potential underlying problems, such as issues with wood integrity or improperly caulked windows, can complicate a project. For older homes, those with noticeable exterior damage, or properties an owner has never painted before, hiring a professional may ultimately save significant time, costs, and headaches. A detailed assessment of the home's type and features is essential. The height of the house is a primary consideration; taller, multi-story, and older homes often present a greater surface area to paint, coat, and dry, making them better suited for an expert exterior painting company that can manage the workload efficiently.
The intricacy of the home's design also plays a role. While a single-level, simple structure might be manageable for DIY, homes with nooks, crannies, and detailed areas, especially on higher floors requiring awkward positioning, are typically better handled by a professional. Extensive preparatory work may be necessary if there are rotting boards, mildew, or peeling paint, which can add days to the project timeline. Furthermore, homes built before 1978 may contain lead paint, requiring safe handling procedures that professionals are equipped to manage.
The materials and tools required for exterior painting significantly impact the decision-making process. Professional painters invest in equipment like ladders, lifts, prepping materials, paint removers, caulking, applicators, primer, and paint—an investment amortized over many jobs. For homeowners lacking these tools, acquiring them can be costly, making professional services a potentially more practical choice. For those attempting a DIY project, proper preparation is critical. This includes thorough cleaning with supplies like scrub brushes, masking tape, pails, bleach, cleaning agents, and a powerful hose, as well as protecting nearby plants with drop cloths.
Surface preparation involves scraping and paint removal to create a smooth base, using tools like carbide scrapers and dry brushes to address peeling and blistering paint. Homeowners should note that methods like pressure washing and power sanding can be damaging or dangerous, as sanding can release toxic ingredients from old paint. Following preparation, applying caulk to seal windows is recommended, with adequate drying time allowed. A DIY paint job can be a fulfilling and cost-effective alternative, but after evaluating key points like painting experience, home type, and available materials, the choice often becomes clear. A home is a valuable asset, and mistakes can prove far more costly than the price of extra paint or professional services.
