1. To prevent accidents, clear a space around the area you will be painting. Remove all objects, such as hoses, patio furniture, cars, planters, etc.
  2. Put your tools and materials where they will be easily accessible.
  3. Depending on your project, remove everything you can to make your job easier: nails, outdoor light fixtures, address numbers, etc. If possible, remove shutters and screens, and doors and hinges.
  4. Use a plastic tarp, drop cloth, or masking tape to cover anything you can’t remove.
  5. Clean and repair the surface to paint. For small holes and cracks, remove dust and debris, then caulk and fill as required. To repair seams and joints, remove dust and debris, apply caulking and allow the product to dry completely before painting
  6. Once the repairs are completely dry, sand the area for a nice smooth surface. Wipe away any trace of dust with a damp cloth.
  7. If you’re painting a very smooth surface, such as metal, sand lightly or strip away old paint to ensure the new paint adheres well.
  8. Clean the exterior of your house with a garden hose or a pressure washer, from top to bottom. Wipe away remaining dust or dirt with a sponge or soft cloth. Allow the house to dry completely before painting.

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