Exterior Painting Tips: Water Damage

Before painting the exterior of your house, it is important to pay special attention to areas of possible water damage. This type of damage may not always be visually apparent, so here is what to look for and how to prevent it in the future.

Pay special attention to trim boards around the edges of siding and windows and doors. If these areas were not properly prepared and caulked by the last painting company, there could be significant unseen water damage. Where trim boards lay flat against siding, water can easily penetrate uncaulked areas and cause damage under the trim board to both the siding and the trim board itself. Many times a board may look fine but if you press with your finger the board will collapse under the pressure leaving an indentation- a sure sign of water damage.

Water damage on home exteriors is generally most significant at the seams where trim boards meet. Removal of rotted wood is necessary. When replacing trim boards, it is best to primer and paint the ENDS of the boards before nailing them in place. The paint will protect the wood even if water does penetrate. Always run a bead of caulk along any seams; this includes vertical seams, not just horizontal. Be sure to use exterior caulk. Good quality 40 year exterior caulk can be found at your local home improvement or hardware store. Trim can be caulked either before or after painting.