Summer has finally arrived in Dallas-Fort Worth, which is the perfect time to paint your home. Painting can refresh and revitalize your home, as well as protect it for years to come. Here are some house painting tips to help you get the great exterior and interior you’ve been dreaming about all winter.

The Exterior
Painting your home’s exterior can create a stunning visual every time you return home, but more importantly, it protects your home from the daily environmental elements like rain, ice, snow, and harsh sun. Be sure to fully inspect your home’s exterior including doors, windows, trim, and gutters. Repair any damage, mold, soft spots, or old caulking. Once completed, you’re ready to choose your paint.

• Latex or oil? You can choose either water-based latex or an oil-based paint. Here’s what you should know about the two types:

o Water-based latex: Choose one with 100 percent acrylic resins to reduce cracking, chipping, and fading.

o Oil-based paint: These paints require a longer drying time, so be sure to schedule your painting project for a time with clear, dry weather.

• UV-resistant: To withstand the intense Dallas sunshine, choose UV-resistant paints. (And avoid alkyd paints, which are not good for this.)
• Primers: Determine if you need a primer. Many latex paints include a primer. If you’re painting with a water-based paint and the original paint was oil, you’ll need primer for proper adhesion.
• Temperature Range: All paints are temperature sensitive, so be sure to read the paint label for specifics before purchasing.
• Cost: Establish a budget before you look at paint colors. Before you fall in love with a particular color, know what you can spend. Keep in mind that cost does matter in paints, so spending a little more up front can save you money in the end.
• Color: Remember to think about resale value before choosing your paint color. Will that lavender, lime green, or red exterior add to your home’s value if you decide to sell or plan to sell your home in the near future? Will it create a problem with surrounding properties?

The Interior
The interior paints of your home can affect the mood of each room and deserve careful consideration. A living room or bedroom may not be best suited for a strong red color if the goal is relaxation. A home’s interior paints should complement each other and create a mood as you move from room to room. In terms of resale value, too much contrast between rooms can affect a potential buyer’s interest. In addition to color, here are other interior house painting tips to keep in mind:

• Finishes: Interior paints come in a variety of finishes, including high gloss (which is the shiniest, good for accents), semi-gloss, pearl/satin, eggshell, or flat.
• Repairs: Fix any holes or cracks Once the repairs are dried, wash the walls from top to bottom to remove dirt and avoid having to paint a second coat.
• Lighting: Consider the light in each room, as well as the furniture. Make sure they complement each other well.

Equipment for Painting

• While it’s recommended to use a licensed contractor for your painting project, if you’re a do-it-yourselfer, this list by RealSimple will help you make sure you have the supplies you need.
• Always use good quality brushes and rollers. Disposables can leave debris in your paint and surfaces.
• Pantone has a great color guide with annual updates to keep you in-the-know about the latest color trends. Check out their Spring 2014 Fashion Color Report and 2014 Color of the Year: Radiant Orchid page for some color inspiration.

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