Few home improvement initiatives can be as treasured an investment as a fresh coat of paint. Painting your home not only improves its inherent charm and beauty but also its resale value. For the most superior output, it is vital to make the right preparation. Some of the general steps to surface preparation prior to painting are: Replacing/repairing any hurt surface: this is applicable to all surfaces including wood, metal, masonry and stucco. Cleaning the surface thoroughly: rent a pressure washer for a cleaner surface and ensure that the surface to be painted is thoroughly dried. Use of quality sandpaper: this ensures removal of any chipped, cracked or blistered paint. Besides, patch up any nail or screw holes for a smooth end. Corners and seams should be caulked before beginning the painting process. A excellent advice is to apply caulking to any place where one material meets a different material except where siding or shingles overlap between the shingles. Effort should be invested on avoiding stains from any possible zone. This applies even to primers and hence stain blocking primers to cover deep stains should be used. This is especially helpful for mildewed areas. Sanding the surface is very vital for the paint to stick properly. A roughened surface without a speck of dust and grains ensures that the paint will adhere best to it. Before embarking on the painting task, check that all objects/light fixtures within the room are nicely covered. Your window screens too need attention when you want to give your room a fresh coat of paint. Paint stains are very tough on window screens and hence it is best to remove them. Quality primers are a must and should be applied to all surfaces before painting. Besides, you should also remember that primers vary with different surfaces and should be chosen accordingly. Follow a step by step process. Once a coat of primer is applied, let it dry. Then apply at least 2 coats of quality exterior paint. Allow each coat of paint to dry completely before venturing to reapply. Once the final coat is dry, you can take your time to admire your efforts. But, it is best if you leave the painting job to http://www. mccarthypainting. com/ painting contractors as they are professionally skilled to do the job in the way you imagine.