The Ultimate Guide to Preparing Your Home for Exterior Painting

A beautiful exterior paint job doesn’t start with a brush or roller — it starts long before that, with careful preparation. In Florida, where weather conditions can be unpredictable and harsh, prep work is even more important. Skipping steps now can mean peeling, fading, or blistering paint in just a couple of years. The right preparation will make your paint last longer, look better, and protect your home from the elements.

Why Preparation Matters in Florida

Unlike milder climates, Florida’s heat, humidity, and intense UV rays are tough on exterior paint. Moisture can get trapped under a poorly prepared surface, causing blistering. Unwashed walls can harbor mildew that grows under the new coating. And if paint is applied to chalky or flaky surfaces, it won’t adhere properly.

By investing time in prep work — and timing the project between October and April when humidity and rain are more predictable — you give your paint the best chance to bond and cure properly.

Step 1: Cleaning the Surface

• Pressure Washing: Removes dirt, pollen, and mildew that can interfere with adhesion.

• Mildew Treatment: Use a mildew-killing solution for any green or black growth, especially on shaded sides of the home.

  

• Drying Time: After washing, walls need to dry completely before moving on.

Step 2: Repairing Damage

• Wood Rot: Replace or repair any rotted trim or siding before painting.

• Stucco Cracks: Fill hairline cracks with a high-quality elastomeric patching compound.

• Nail Holes & Gaps: Fill gaps with paintable exterior caulk to prevent water intrusion.

Step 3: Scraping & Sanding

• Scraping: Remove all loose and peeling paint until the edges are smooth.

• Sanding: Feather sand the edges to create a seamless transition between bare and painted areas.

Step 4: Priming

• Spot Priming: Bare wood, metal, and patched areas need primer to seal and provide adhesion.

• Full Priming: For chalky, weathered, or stained surfaces, priming the entire home is best.

Product Recommendations for Florida Homes

Once prep is complete, we recommend high-performance exterior paints that can withstand Florida’s climate:

• Benjamin Moore Element Guard — exceptional moisture resistance, great for coastal or rainy areas.

• Benjamin Moore Regal Select — durable and colorfast with mildew resistance.

• Sherwin-Williams Emerald — resists blistering and fading even under intense sun.

• Fine Paints of Europe — premium choice for homeowners seeking maximum longevity and return on investment.

A flawless exterior finish starts with proper prep. In Florida’s climate, this means working methodically and timing the project between October and April to ensure the best results. When paired with the right paint, proper preparation can extend the lifespan of your exterior by years.