The longevity of any exterior finish hinges on the effort spent preparing your wood surface. Following the tips below will help to ensure the success of your outdoor painting or staining projects.
FUNDAMENTALS OF EXTERIOR FINISHING
For early spring and late fall paint/ stain projects, keep in mind that freezing temperatures may damage your freshly applied paint or stain. The first week of any freshly applied exterior finish is very vulnerable to the weather elements.
Your wood surfaces should always be dry prior to priming, painting or staining. Low to the ground wood structures are subject to premature failure of your paint or stain and ultimately wood decay.
When painting or staining in warm temperatures, avoid applying in direct sunlight. You may need to start early or work late to avoid the direct heat of the sun.
Benjamin Moore's oil based stains need to be applied wet on wet meaning you DO NOT allow the first coat to dry before applying the second coat. It's best to roll your stain on using a 20mm pile roller onto 2 or 3 boards, then roll on again a second time, then back brush once working the stain into the wood surface. This may require working in small sections and/or with multiple people.
Take note that fog and dew fall can also contribute to damaging freshly applied paints and stains and will also be contributing factors as to when you can begin your project in the morning or how late you can work in the evening. Always take a look at weather conditions prior to painting or staining. If precipitation is in the forecast, it is best to hold off as rain can damage your freshly applied paint or stain.
When priming exterior wood surfaces it is best to use an oil based primer. Oil based primers offer better adhesion, better stain blocking abilities and deeper penetration.
Presented by For more detailed information and answers to any related questions you may have, contact Janzen's Paint & Decorating Ltd. @ 204-325-8387 • Winkler 20
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When painting or priming exterior concrete or brick surfaces it is best to use a water based primer or paint system which offers more breathability and is therefore less prone to peeling. When applying white or pastel colours of solid colour stain onto raw wood, it is best to prime the surface with Benjamin Moore's 366-00 stain blocking primer to prevent tanin bleed. When painting stucco it is best to wet down the stucco with water the night before you plan to paint. This assists in keeping the surface cool and prevents the paint from penetrating too deep into the stucco.
