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What You Need To Know About Pressure Washing Your House

In Central Florida, pressure washing the exterior of your house is part of practicing good regular maintenance. Our humid subtropical climate promotes the growth of mildew, mold and algae – and “pollen season” in spring covers every stationary exterior surface with a thick coat of the stuff. Add to that the build-up of regular dirt and grime, which means the typical house should have a thorough cleaning on a regular basis.

Ignoring these conditions not only results in a dingy appearance, but can actually damage your home and pose a health hazard. As noted by New Life Painting, mildew and mold continue to grow if left unchecked – and mold can grow within walls, meaning your home’s interior could be affected. Our blog post – “Is Your Home’s Exterior Covered In Mildew?” – covers this topic in greater detail.

Moreover, pressure washing is definitely required before you paint it, or to improve its curb appeal if you’re planning to sell.

Whether you’re a new (or relatively new) Florida resident – or a new homeowner just learning about taking care of your property – we at The Paint Manager offer this informal introductory course about pressure washing. But don’t worry – there’s no test at the end!

When Should You Pressure Wash Your House?

Mid-spring and early fall are the best times of year to perform this task. March and April are the peak of pollen season, while October marks the downside of hurricane season (June 1 through November 30). By the way, if you’re planning to paint your house, these are the best windows of opportunity for this job, as well. Our blog post – “When Is The Best Time Of Year To Have My House Painted?” – covers this topic in greater detail.

However, if you notice mildew and algae growth, don’t wait, regardless of the season! Likewise if you’re putting your house on the market. Having it look its best for prospective buyers takes priority over timing the pressure cleaning so that the exterior stays clean for as long as possible.

Thinking About Doing it Yourself? Here’s What’s Involved!

If you’re young (or youngish), strong and sturdy – and want to save a few bucks – you might think that you can take the DIY route. We invite you to read the following instructions presented by The Home Depot, then decide!

Choose a pressure washer – Whether you buy or rent a pressure washer, make sure it’s appropriate for the job. Depending on the exterior of your house, you may need to use a certain type of pressure washer to match the housing materials to the right water pressure levels.

Vinyl siding can withstand a powerful gas pressure washer (2,500-3,000 psi).
Aluminum, stucco or soft-grain wood homes will do better with a less powerful washer (about 1,200-1,500 psi).
Decide if you need any accessories such as pressure washer extension wands or pressure washer telescoping wands, which are helpful when cleaning two-story homes or hard-to-reach areas.

Prepare the area and put on safety gear:

Before you begin, remove or cover such items as light fixtures and air conditioner compressors to protect them from damage.

Use a tarp or plastic covering over shrubs and garden plants. Secure the tarps in place with duct tape. Note the location of windows and electrical outlets to ensure you avoid them while pressure washing.
Do not stand on a ladder when using a pressure washer. The pressure could cause you to lose your balance.
Never drive water directly into gaps or cracks in your home’s exterior. Patch cracks and holes in mortar and brick.
Keep your pressure washer wand at least 6 feet away from electrical wires and never spray water into outlets. Cover electrical sockets with duct tape or close the covers prior to washing.
Pre-scrub the exterior with a scrub brush or spray with a garden hose to remove any dirt, debris or mildew.
Never point a pressure washer at other people or pets.
Be sure to wear the proper protective gear – such as safety goggles and work gloves.

Set up the pressure washer:

Using a 5-gallon water bucket, mix water and a cleaning detergent with mildewcide according to manufacturer’s recommendations.
Attach your pressure washer to your garden hose. Choose the pressure washer nozzle you plan to use and attach it to your sprayer.
Step back about 3 feet from your home and test the pressure washer against the house. Adjust your stance and spray until you feel the pressure is strong enough to remove dirt or mildew without damaging the home’s exterior.

Clean from the bottom up:

Using the cleaning solution, start power washing at the bottom of the house and work your way up. Working from the top down can cause water and suds to run down the side of the house, making it more likely you’ll miss a section.
Spray in a horizontal, side-to-side motion.
When spraying roof overhangs and gutters, always maintain a 45-degree angle.

Finish up and let dry:

Turn off the pressure washer and disconnect it from the garden hose.
Consult the owner’s manual for the proper steps for storing the pressure washer, such as draining liquid from the pump when finished.
Use just the garden hose to rinse the soap from your home with plain water.
Remove all tarps, drop cloths and duct tape.
If you plan to paint, allow the home’s exterior to completely dry. This typically takes about two days.

Having Second Thoughts About Doing it Yourself?

Even if you’re physically up to handling the job, there are clearly several factors to consider. First, are you really saving money by doing it yourself? As you’ve learned, there’s the expense of buying – or even renting – a pressure washer. Add to that the cost of protective gear, accessories, detergent, tarps, etc.

Being able to wield the pressure washer wand and aim the nozzle skillfully and safely is another factor. Dangers include using too much pressure or the wrong nozzle – which can damage surfaces (such as siding, mortar and wood), break windows and even cause injury. Improper use can also blast paint off, which means you’ll be repainting long before you intended.

Also, what’s your time worth? Are you willing to take a weekend to pressure wash your house? It’s grueling work, even under ideal circumstances. Remember that once you’re finished, you’ll have to disassemble the pressure washer, return it to the rental place (if applicable), clean up, remove tarp, etc. Our blog post – “Why You (or a Pro) Should Pressure Wash Your House” – covers this topic in greater detail.

The Advantages of Hiring a Professional to do the Job

A pressure washing pro has the skills and experience to handle every type of exterior cleaning job with the right equipment and cleaning solutions for the home’s construction material and paint. A professional knows how to prep the area and protect nearby plants. A professional has the expertise to clean specific areas without causing damage, and comes to your house with the proper protective clothing and gear. The task will be done quickly yet thoroughly, saving you valuable time and labor.

And speaking of saving, it might not cost as much as you may think! The Paint Manager provides our customers with the most professional and affordable pressure washing services available. Our services include hot and cold water pressure washing, steam cleaning, pressure cleaning (or power washing) of home exteriors, decks, driveways, sidewalks, curbs, townhomes, condos, commercial buildings – and more!

We have been proudly serving Central Florida for more than 20 years with experienced, dedicated and professional services that include full-service commercial painting, exterior and interior house painting, roof repair and cleaning, drywall repair, popcorn ceiling texture removal and cabinet refinishing – just to mention a few!

Plus, become a member of The Paint Manager to receive a 15% year-‘round member’s discount. Contact us to learn more about our services and membership discount offer. We look forward to meeting you!

Benefits of Painting the Exterior of Your Commercial Building

Today’s business environment is more competitive than ever! For owners of a commercial building, no matter how great your location is, you need to make sure your property has every possible competitive advantage. That means keeping up its appearance with a fresh coat of paint. Whether your building is a multi-tenant or single-tenant property, painting the exterior is a worthwhile investment in several ways.

Improves the Image of Your Business and Encourages Foot Traffic

As the old adage goes, you never get a second chance to make a good first impression! Whatever type of commercial building you own, it needs to stand out in a positive manner.

Multi-tenant office building – A freshly painted, well-maintained office building helps retain and attract quality tenants, allowing you to maintain a consistent revenue stream. Professionals want to have their business or medical practice in an attractive building that helps to elevate their own image and inspire confidence in their customers, clients or patients that they’re trustworthy, conscientious and successful.

Single-tenant office building – Whether it’s your own business or that of a tenant business, new paint plays a significant role in branding. Your building represents your enterprise and the reputation and brand values it stands upon. In addition, if you’re rebranding, painting your building’s exterior in the new brand colors is an effective way of establishing the new brand identity.

Multi-tenant retail building – Unfortunately, it’s easy for so-called “strip malls” to get a bad reputation for being shabby and run-down. Keeping your property painted can go a long way in creating an uplifting retail environment in which shoppers feel welcome and safe. Allowing your property to get rough around the edges will set a downward spiral in motion. Fewer shoppers result in more stores closing and relocating, which results in empty storefronts and even less foot traffic. Such conditions also tend to attract criminal activity.

Single-tenant retail building – The basic benefits of repainting a single-tenant office building apply here, assuming your business isn’t a franchise or chain enterprise – in which case you’d need to follow brand specifications for paint colors. An independently owned business has the advantage of being able to make a bold statement through color – although be sure its pleasing and not garish – which would make your building an eyesore – nor too trendy to avoid quickly becoming outdated.

Whatever the type of property you own, keeping it well-painted and maintained sends a positive message to potential customers. As Colorado Paint points out, “A dirty or neglected exterior may make them wonder how much care and attention you give to other aspects of your business.”

Also consider that the first look many people get of your building is on Google. When those searching online for your business or that of one of your tenants enter the name of the business, Google produces a photo of the building’s exterior. A photo showing a run-down exterior won’t inspire confidence, and searchers may just keep searching!

So how frequently should you paint? According to The Painting Pros, the general rule is to repaint every five years. However, the frequency also depends on what the building is used for. A busy warehouse might need painting more often than a typical office space.

Protects the Building From Environmental Damage

Central Florida’s intense climate is tough on the exterior of commercial buildings. Using a high-quality paint provides a good line of protection from intense sunlight and heat, as well as moisture intrusion from heavy rains during hurricane season. For newcomers to The Sunshine State, even a relatively quiet hurricane season (June 1 through November 30) still includes our summer rainy season, during which almost daily afternoon thunderstorms occur.

In general, Harrison Contracting Company points out, “Regular exterior painting is an essential aspect of preventative maintenance. Painting your commercial property is a cost-effective investment. It protects the outer surface of your building from deteriorating. This can save you from having to pay for expensive damages later. You may not notice these issues right away, but repainting before they become worse will protect your property from future damage.”

Improves the Property Value

Whether your company outgrows its current building or you sell the business entirely, a well-maintained building has a much higher market value. Just as a high-quality recent paint job makes a good impression on potential tenants and/or customers, it can also achieve the same benefit as an excellent investment in your building’s future resale value.

There’s another aspect at work here. Your building is part of the larger community. Keeping it in top condition improves the overall quality of life, and shows that the area is economically healthy and thriving. Showing pride through a well-maintained building inspires surrounding business owners to do likewise, creating an elevating effect.

The Importance of Proper Prep Work

Painting your commercial building isn’t as simple as just applying a new coat. Hiring a professional painting contractor whose services include commercial properties is essential to achieving a professional result. This is obviously not a DIY project, but it also isn’t one that a couple of jack-of-all-trades types can perform effectively. Ask the painting contractor the following questions while you’re doing the walk-around on the property:

What kind of paint will you use? The contractor should be specific about the type of paint – for example, whether it’s acrylic latex, elastomeric, or another formulation.
What prep work will you do? This will most likely involve cleaning the entire exterior of the building to remove dirt, grease, and mold by power washing, scraping and/or sandblasting. After cleaning, minor repairs – such as re-caulking and filling small cracks – should be made. A conscientious contractor will point out these areas. Good prep work will leave a smooth, even finish that allows the paint to adhere better and have an attractive, professional appearance.

The Take-Home Message

As another old adage goes, any job that’s worth doing is worth doing right! Your commercial building is a big investment, so improve and maintain its value with a professional paint job by a professional painting contractor.

By the way, the photo featured on our blog post is the office of Van Dingenen Law, Winter Park, FL, which we painted in 2023! The Paint Manager has been proudly serving Central Florida for more than 20 years with experienced, dedicated and professional services that include full-service commercial painting, exterior and interior house painting, roof repair and cleaning, drywall repair, popcorn ceiling texture removal, cabinet refinishing and so much more!

What Is A Move-in Ready House?

If you’re a fan of home-buying cable TV shows, you’ve doubtlessly heard the term “move-in ready house.” But if you’re about to hunt for a house yourself, this description has an even more urgent need to be definitely defined. And what if you’re selling your house? Can you correctly claim that it’s move-in ready?

This term is often bandied about with the assumption that everyone knows what it means. However, your concept of a move-in ready house may differ from someone else’s. Fortunately, there are standards for what constitutes a house in this condition. We thank the experts at realtor.com, Homebuyer.com and Rocket Homes for providing the following valuable information!

What Does Move-in Ready Mean – and Not Mean?

Basically, move-in ready means the house should be livable without any anticipated repairs.

“A move-in ready home should not require anything that would prevent a buyer from occupying the home immediately without a to-do list,” says Jennifer Okhovat, a real estate agent at Compass in Los Angeles.

The legal definition of a move-in ready home is a home that’s suitable for immediate occupancy and meets the local government’s safety, health, and building codes standards. Buyers of a move-in ready home can expect the home’s major systems to be functional and certified by a licensed home inspector – including electrical, plumbing, and HVAC – and for its structure to be sound. Move-in ready homes have no known hazards and no building code violations.

The three general traits of a move-in ready home are as follow:

Structurally sound and safe.
Plumbing, electricity, and windows and doors are operable.
Free from pests and infestations.

Our blog post – “What to Look for Before You Buy a Home” – provides a guide on how to take stock of a home’s condition and state of repair – including a list of main exterior and construction components you (and a home inspector) need to examine closely before making an offer.

Sometimes, homebuyers have unrealistic expectations of “move-in ready” – which may be the fault of those afore-mentioned TV shows where prospective buyers are critical of outdated light fixtures, non-stainless steel kitchen appliances, popcorn ceilings, etc. As long as everything is in working order and up to code, there’s no reason why you can’t sign the contract and move right in. A house in which the flooring, cabinetry, finishes, trim, paint colors, etc., aren’t to your taste isn’t the same as a house in need of repairs – such as a new roof, a hole in the drywall and so on.

As realtor.com notes, “So even if that Tuscan wine-themed backsplash in the kitchen is giving you nightmares, it doesn’t mean the home is unable to be lived in.”

Eight Features of a Move-in Ready House

Now that you know “move-in ready” isn’t synonymous with “updated,” a move-in ready house meets the following eight standards:

Working plumbing and pipes – Running water is a top priority for any home. The drains of a move-in ready home will be clean and clear of blockages, and faucets will provide clean water.
Modern electrical outlets and wiring – Move-in ready homes meet the national electrical code. Every kitchen, bedroom, living space and family room will have a working electrical outlet. Outlets will be spaced according to electrical standards and not near running water.
Leak-proof roof and exterior – The roof of a move-in ready home will be free from major and minor damage – including leaks, loose shingles and discoloration. In addition, gutters and drainage systems will be intact. The home’s interior will show no evidence of water damage from failed roofing. For homes with siding, all siding pieces will be structurally sound. For brick homes, all tuckpointing will be up-to-date and complete.
Major appliances are included – Move-in ready homes will include refrigerators, stoves, dishwashers, and washers and dryers. Appliances are not required to meet energy-efficiency standards and may be near their replacement age.
Flooring and walls are level and flat – The floors of a move-in ready home will be level, and its walls will be even. There will be no apparent holes, water stains, or physical warping. Moldings around doors and windows will be aligned. Doors and windows will open and close as expected. There will be no gaps between ceilings and walls and floors.
Windows and door locks operate – The windows and doors of a move-in ready home will have secure locking mechanisms. Single- and double-pane windows will lock from inside the house. Exterior doors will have functioning double-locking mechanisms. System memory has been wiped before move-in for homes with biometric key systems.
Heating and cooling systems are functional and tuned – Heating, ventilation and cooling (HVAC) systems will have new filters, clean vents and working fan belts. Refrigerants will be at acceptable levels, and there will be no evidence of pest infestation.
The home is habitable – A move-in ready home will have a certificate of occupancy and adhere to the applicable building codes.

Is a Move-in Ready House Right for You?

Many homebuyers prefer a house that has no major projects requiring immediate attention. The convenience of moving right in and resuming a regular schedule – or getting oriented to new surroundings and creating a new regular schedule – is highly desirable to them. Even those who eventually want to update the light fixtures and repaint the family room may appreciate the fact that they can do so at their leisure, on their own schedule and according to their budget.

As Rocket Homes observes, “Home improvement (and moving in general) isn’t for the faint of heart. If you aren’t up for the physical challenge of renovating and repairing a home – or the mental challenge of coordinating contractors – you’re better off looking for a house that’s habitable and suits your needs as-is.” Moreover, it’s typically easier to get financing for a move-in ready home than for a home improvement mortgage or construction loan.

However, others welcome the opportunity to “make the house their own,” to use the phrase often heard on home-buying TV shows. For them, a house that has no issues isn’t as important as one that can be remodeled or renovated to become their dream home. The “bones” of the house, architectural style, number of rooms, certain amenities or even the neighborhood could be the deciding factor. For example, home buyers who have their heart set on a Victorian, craftsman bungalow or mid-century modern house are typically willing to put the work – and money – into getting exactly the house they envision.

Ultimately, choosing a move-in ready house is a matter of preference. Knowing yourself, the needs and expectations of your family and your long-term plans should guide you to the right decision. After all, your home isn’t only your most important investment – it’s where you make a life for yourself and your family. Choosing the right house enhances the quality of your life and allows you to create wonderful experiences and memories.

Even a move-in ready house will need maintenance to keep it in top condition – and those requiring exterior/interior paint and repairs need a reputable, reliable contractor. Fortunately, The Paint Manager is here to help you maintain, repair and improve your home! We have been serving Central Florida homeowners for more than 20 years with experienced, dedicated and professional services that include exterior and interior house painting, roof repair and cleaning, drywall repair, popcorn ceiling texture removal, cabinet refinishing and so much more!

Should You Paint Your Brick House?

Bricks are one of the oldest building materials, popular for use in home construction throughout much of history. The enduring appeal of brick homes can be attributed to their combination of durability and beauty. After all, in The Three Little Pigs, the brick house was the only dwelling that withstood the Big Bad Wolf’s huffing and puffing!

In addition to their strength, low maintenance is a big perceived advantage to brick homes, because brick doesn’t need to be painted. Or does it? Painting brick houses is something of a trend now, but is it really a good idea over the long term? We’ll look at the pros, cons and alternatives to paint that can give a tired-looking brick house a fresh appearance without the drawbacks.

Why Painting Your Brick House May Seem Like a Good Idea

Over time, bricks may become weather-beaten and discolored from extended exposure to the elements. Although still sound, a brick exterior can appear worn-out. Moreover, a homeowner may want a different, more updated look for their place – especially if they’re planning to sell, and feel the need to increase its curb appeal. Taking a house from boring to eye-catching can make a big difference in getting attention from house hunters. It’s a relatively quick fix that delivers dramatic bang-for-the-buck for a faster sale.

Even for those planning to stay in their home-sweet-brick-home, painting would seem to provide easier maintenance. Proponents claim that a painted brick house is easier to clean, creating a smooth surface that prevents pollen and debris from embedding – as they would in the rough and bumpy texture of bare brick. Also, paint helps protect brick from harsh elements – which, in Central Florida, include intense summer sun and extreme high temperatures – as well as water damage from hurricanes, tropical storms and almost daily afternoon thunderstorms June through August.

As remodeling expert Glenda Taylor writes for Bob Vila, painting can be necessary when a repair was made using new bricks that don’t match the original. In such a case, paint will create a seamless, uniform appearance.

Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Paint Your Brick House

Enthusiasm for the fresh, stylish look that a painted brick exterior gives may be rather short-lived. Painting has the following disadvantages worth considering.

Paint doesn’t last – Like all other types of exterior material – such as stucco, aluminum siding, concrete block and wood – once brick is painted, it must be repainted on a regular basis. Under normal circumstances, brick in good condition doesn’t need to be painted. Only exterior doors and trim need it. Repainting the entire exterior will be an expense you can count on approximately every five years.

There’s no going back – If you change your mind, paint cannot be easily (or perhaps completely) removed from brick. Removal must be performed by a professional contractor, as it requires blasting with sand or silicone beads, and will damage the brick if done improperly. Price will vary depending upon the size of the house and region, but regardless of variables, this remedy is expensive.

Moisture issues – Moisture can become trapped between the brick and paint. According to Taylor, “Brick is porous, but paint is not. Exterior paint forms a seal over the brick’s surface that will prevent any moisture in the bricks from evaporating and drying out. Trapped moisture, which can come from a leaky window or pipe, is a prime source of mold and mildew growth. What’s more, moisture in the bricks can cause the paint to release and peel off.” In addition, trapped moisture will damage the brick itself.

Staining Your Brick House – A Beautiful, Safe Alternative to Painting

Fortunately, there is an alternative to painting for those who want to improve the appearance of their brick home. Although it isn’t as widely known, staining provides a great option that offers the visual advantages of paint, without the serious drawbacks.

Brick stain is a permanent finish made of mineral-based pigments that seep into and form a chemical bond with the brick itself – rather than remaining on the surface, as paint does. The nature of brick stain gives it the advantages of acting as a moisture barrier while allowing the brick to breathe.

According to brick stain manufacturer BrickImaging, “Staining your brick will maintain the natural integrity of the brick and allow it to keep its texture and look. It also does not ‘cake’ the brick, meaning it soaks into the brick and allows the porous material to breathe. It’s basically acting as a dye, which complements the natural characteristics of brick instead of covering them.”

Also good to keep in mind for Central Florida’s climate, stain does not discolor or melt when heated, so it’s able to withstand the heat as much as the brick itself. Nor will it chip or flake from prolonged exposure to harsh elements.

You may have seen homes and commercial buildings with brick stain, and not been aware of it. Brick stain comes in a wide range of colors – from light and transparent to bold and opaque – allowing you to achieve any kind of look you want.

Another major advantage is that when properly applied, brick stain can last indefinitely. Unlike paint, you’ll never have to reapply at regular intervals. Not only does this help you save money, it also helps the environment. As BrickImaging notes, “Over time, the paint deteriorates from the brick and is absorbed into the environment. The brick will last longer than the paint applied to it.”

If you’re planning to put your brick house on the market, staining will boost its curb appeal while putting potential buyers at ease about its condition. Taylor writes, “Coming across a freshly painted brick home while house-hunting should send up a red flag. Paint camouflages a host of problems, including cracks in mortar joints, soft mortar, or the presence of efflorescence – a powdery white substance that indicates high levels of moisture within the brick.” Staining the brick will show buyers that you have nothing to hide!

Our blog post – “Should You Paint Your House Before Selling?” – obviously, focuses on painting. But the added value that a refreshed exterior makes still applies, even if it involves staining brick. Making the investment could pay off in a faster sale, and help you get full asking price.

The Take-Home Message

Painting your brick house can give it an updated, more trendy look, but the immediate benefit may be short-lived and ultimately not worth the trade-off in potential damage to the brick and risk of mold and mildew growth. Not to mention the expense of having to repaint approximately every five years, should you stay in your home.

Stain offers an aesthetically pleasing way to revitalize a brick house that preserves the integrity of the brick while protecting it from the elements. Although it typically isn’t well publicized, brick stain is well worth looking into for those wanting to improve the appearance – and/or market value – of their house.

Do you think that brick stain could be the ideal solution for your home’s exterior? Or even your commercial building? Call The Paint Manager! We have served Central Florida since 2000 with quality residential and commercial painting services. Visit our website to learn about the many other services we provide – including pressure washing, roof cleaning, popcorn ceiling removal and stump removal. Become a member of The Paint Manager to receive a 15% year-‘round member’s discount. Contact us to learn more about our services and membership discount offer. We look forward to meeting you!

How to Clean Your Gutters

Gutters aren’t glamorous, but they’re an essential component for protecting your home from water damage. Because gutters typically do their job unnoticed, they can be easy to forget – which is a big mistake when you don’t clean them on a regular basis. Since this is a fundamental part of home maintenance, the more you know about how your gutter system works, the importance of keeping it clean and how to do so will allow you to better keep your home in top condition.

The basic function of gutters is pretty straightforward – they tunnel rainwater off your roof through downspouts and away from your home. In her article for Angi, home writer Stacy Sare Cohen breaks down a gutter system’s components:

Gutter: Attaches to the edge of the eaves on your roof.
End cap: Closes gutters.
Fascia bracket: Connects to the eaves and provides structural support.
Downspout: Allows rainwater to travel from the roof to the ground.
Elbow: Snaps onto the downspout and redirects the water away from your home.

Why is Gutter Cleaning Important?

A clean gutter system protects your home’s roof, walls, foundation and landscape. As seasoned Central Floridians know, summer afternoon thunderstorms and prolonged heavy downpours from hurricane/tropical storm rain bands dump excessive amounts of rainwater on roofs. If debris – such as leaves, twigs, etc. – builds up in gutters, it could lead to sagging gutters, mold growth, a leaky roof or water damage to the interior or exterior of your home. Stagnant water pooling around and under your home eventually undermines its foundation. Gutters filled with debris can also make homes for rodents and other pests. As you can see, neglecting gutter maintenance tends to lead to extensive and expensive repairs down the line.

As Cohen explains in greater detail, rainwater stuck in gutters can destroy your home’s exterior – especially when the weight of the debris makes a gap in your gutter system. Areas affected include:

Soffits protecting your roof and keeping moisture out of the attic space.
Fascias ventilating the roof.

When these areas become waterlogged, they stop working. Mold, mildew and algae grow on the exterior wall – and paint begins to peel and chip.

As The Home Depot points out, gutters need to be cleaned at least twice a year – in the spring and in the fall. If you have pine trees near your home, needles will need to be removed every three months to reduce the potential for clogging the gutters and downspouts.

Step-by-Step Gutter Cleaning Instructions

If you’re considering doing this yourself, The Home Depot also generously provides the following step-by-step instructions:

Don’t clean gutters after a rain – Allowing a few dry days before cleaning your gutters will allow the debris to dry out, making the chore much easier. Start your gutter cleaning task near the downspout and work toward the closed end.

Practice ladder safety – Follow these precautions:

Never climb above the second to last step/rung.
Do not extend your reach.
Use a step ladder on solid level ground whenever possible.
For two-story homes, use an extension ladder.
Use a ladder stabilizer to help keep your ladder in place, if using an extension ladder.
If you are not comfortable on ladders, consider hiring a professional.

Clean debris from the gutters – Have two buckets available. Use one bucket for the debris you remove; the second to hold your tools. Hook the buckets to your ladder for easy access.

Wear safety glasses to keep bits of dried leaves and other debris out of your eyes.
Wear rubber gloves under your work gloves if the debris is damp. This will help keep your hands dry while protecting them.
Begin cleaning near a downspout. Place your ladder squarely on a level ground before you climb it.
Remove and clean the downspout strainer.
Clear large debris such as leaves and twigs by hand.
Use a trowel or gutter scoop for compacted debris.

Flush the gutters – After the large pieces of debris are removed, flush the remaining bits and dirt from the gutter with a garden hose.

Fit your garden house with a spray nozzle.
Flush out the gutter with water, starting at the far end and moving toward the downspout.
Use a strong stream of water and avoid spraying underneath the roof shingles.

Check the downspouts – Turn the hose on and spray down the spout. If the amount of water coming out is less than what is going in, there is a blockage.

Feed the hose up the downspout from the ground.
Turn the hose on at full pressure to try to dislodge the clog.
If this doesn’t dislodge the clog, use a plumber’s snake.

Check for gutter drainage and slope – When the downspout is clog-free, flush the gutters again. Check for proper water flow and drainage. Also look for any leaks at the seams.

If there is any standing water in the gutter, the gutter is not properly sloped. Gutters should slope 1/4-inch for every 10-feet toward the downspout. If your gutters do not slope properly, detach the hangers to adjust the gutters to the proper slope.
Make sure all the gutters are secure and firmly attached to the house.
Inspect each gutter section and the downspout for damage.
Add support hangers or reattach gutters to the fascia if needed.

Finish the gutter cleaning – Seal any leaking seams and joints with gutter sealant, following label instructions. Remove any mildew and dirt. Touch up with paint, if needed. Consider adding gutter screens to reduce the amount of work needed for future gutter cleaning.

Common Gutter Cleaning Mistakes

As you can probably see from the gutter cleaning instructions just listed, there are plenty of opportunities for things to go wrong. Better Homes & Gardens lists some of the most common:

You don’t clean your gutters often enough – At least twice a year is the typical recommendation, but more frequent cleanings could be necessary depending on your landscape. If your house is surrounded by trees, you’ll need to tend to your gutters more frequently, since they’re exposed to more debris and leaves. Pay attention to the condition of your gutters throughout the year.

You clean your gutters at the wrong time – In Central Florida, be sure the spring cleaning is done before the start of hurricane season, June 1. Our blog post – “Hurricane Season is Here! Make Sure Your Property is Ready!” – provides a comprehensive guide to preparing your property for this time of year – including gutter cleaning!

You don’t wear proper protective gear – Wear heavy-duty work gloves to keep your hands clean and protect yourself from any sharp objects that could be hidden in the debris. Additionally, rubber-soled shoes with good traction can help ward off slips on the ladder. Never wear flip-flops on a ladder! And don’t forget protective eyewear.

You don’t follow proper ladder safety precautions – A fall from a ladder can cause serious injury – or worse! Inspect the ladder carefully before use, and ensure the base has secure, even footing before climbing. If possible, have a family member or friend hold the bottom of the ladder for stability. While you’re up on the ladder, keep your hips between the side rails to maintain your balance and avoid overreaching. Instead, move the ladder to a new spot instead of reaching farther down your gutters.

Should You DIY or Hire a Professional?

This is a question only you can answer. We at The Paint Manager always emphasize safety first – and above all! Taking the DIY approach to save money is false economy if you lack the experience, knowledge, physical strength/agility, proper equipment/protective gear, etc., in order to do the job safely.

Also, don’t let pride get in the way. The more years that pass, you may find that tasks you could once accomplish easily are now more challenging. It is much better to stay healthy and independent than risk serious injury that could permanently limit your mobility.

Should you decide that doing it yourself is more demanding than you thought, leave it to our pros at The Paint Manager! We have the experience, skill, equipment and supplies to make sure the job is done correctly and safely!

The Paint Manager has been proudly serving Central Florida homeowners for over 20 years with experienced, dedicated and professional services that include exterior and interior house painting, roof repair and cleaning, drywall repair, popcorn ceiling texture removal, cabinet refinishing and so much more!

11 Reasons Why DIY Projects Go Wrong

Home renovation shows on cable television and YouTube tutorial videos make remodeling projects look deceptively easy. If you can pick up a hammer or power screwdriver, you can do it yourself and get professional-looking results!

However, such is far from the truth. According to a survey conducted by home services website Angi, nearly 80% of homeowners make a mistake while attempting to tackle a project themselves, which can result in property damage or serious injury at the worst – and at the least, a botched project that costs far more to correct than it would have had a licensed professional done the job.

Because we’d rather not have you find out the hard way, we at The Paint Manager provide the 11 most common reasons that DIY projects go wrong!

1. You Took on More than You Can Handle

Having confidence in yourself is a positive trait, but not when you attempt a DIY project that you lack the experience, skills, time or resources to handle. “If you’re a beginner, attempting an overly complex or specialized-skill-dependent project is a recipe for disaster,” writes home design expert Sharon Miki Chan in her article for HGTV. Instead, start with an easy project. If it turns out well, you’ll have a basis by which to determine your ability to successfully take on and complete jobs of increasing complexity. If not, you’ll learn your limitations without having lost too much, and know to hire a pro!

2. Poor Planning

Even a relatively easy project – such as painting an accent wall – requires planning before the work begins. “Take the time to figure out how long it should take to complete, what materials are required and what techniques you’ll need to know,” Chan writes.

Also, the bigger the project, the more care you need in planning! According to Forbes Home contributor Kristi Waterworth, “If you’re hanging cabinets, be mindful of where and how the doors swing, ensure that tiles aren’t too tall for the bathroom door to shut, and, whatever you do, make sure that dishwashers and stoves don’t have to fight for room to open. Planning is the difference between a final project that really works and one that is a source of constant pain.”

3. Poor Time Management

Another contributor to DIY fails is failing to realistically estimate the amount of time the project will require. This often leads to rushing through the project, which greatly increases the chances for mistakes.

When planning a project, consider how much time you have available. You may plan to do it on a weekend, over more than one weekend, after work, etc. But if you work full-time, will you be too tired to work on your project when you’d otherwise be relaxing or tending to other household chores? Do you have children who’ll need your attention while you’re replacing the bathroom floor tile? The time you assume you’ll have might not exist – leading to a project that drags on far longer than intended, or – as previously mentioned – gets slapped together in haste. The old adage “Haste makes waste” was never so true as in a home DIY project!

4. You Didn’t Use the Right Tools/Products

No matter how small the project, you need the right tools and products to achieve the desired result. Trying to make do with what you have available is a guaranteed route to failure – as is heading off to the hardware or big-box store to buy whatever paint brush, roller, etc., that appears to be good enough.

As interior design expert Jessica Bennett notes in her article for Better Homes & Gardens, “Many tools are designed for specific uses and materials, and employing them for other tasks could result in injury, longer working time, or poor quality results … This is especially important if your project calls for specialty tools, such as a certain type of power saw.”

Be sure you understand the specifications of the tools needed for the project, and make the investment. If the tool you need is too expensive to buy, you may be able to rent it at a home improvement center.

5. You Used the Wrong Materials

This mistake goes back to not adequately researching the requirements of the project. For those involving woodworking, buying the wrong grade of lumber for the job – or using cement tile for a kitchen backsplash – are common examples. FYI: Cement tile is a bad choice for this purpose because it’s very porous, which means it will absorb food particles, splatters and stains – making it impossible to clean. If you didn’t know before, you do now!

6. You Didn’t Understand the Materials You Were Working With

“It might seem like a board is a board and a nail is a nail, but the truth is that home tech is constantly evolving,” writes Waterworth. “If you don’t have any experience with building a deck out of composite material, for example, you need to get online and watch some videos and read up on it before you do, since the approach is different from using wood. The same goes for any materials you’re unfamiliar with, really.”

7. Getting Measurements Wrong

Another old adage, “Measure twice, cut once,” also applies to DIY projects! “Even a small discrepancy in measurements can throw off the entire project, but this common DIY mistake is easily avoidable,” Bennett writes. “Taking the time to measure, mark, then measure again can help ensure you have the right fit the first time. Keep in mind that the actual dimensions of your purchased materials might be slightly off, so it’s best to measure everything yourself to ensure accuracy.” To keep your measurements consistent, Bennett recommends using only one tape measure or ruler throughout the entire project. Be sure to keep the tool straight and at a right angle to the surface you’re measuring, and always double-check your measurements before continuing.

8. Skipping Steps

This is a rookie mistake that can get your project in serious trouble, if not result in an outright fail! While you may not think that a particular step is important to the outcome, that step was listed in the instructions for a good reason. Or you may not have researched the project well enough to know what steps need to be taken, and the order in which they need to be done. Thoroughly read all instructions ahead of time, and be sure you have the necessary skills and supplies to complete each step before you begin.

9. You Didn’t Do the Prep Work

Very closely related to Number 8, skipping necessary preparation work will produce a poor outcome. For example, Bennett notes that skipping straight to painting without sanding or priming the surface first can result in an uneven finish that peels or chips over time. And as Waterworth observes, “It will take extra time to do prep work properly, but by carefully smoothing, sanding, sweeping, priming, and the like, you’ll find that your final project comes together quickly and looks very professional.”

Our blog post – “Common Interior Painting Mistakes to Avoid” – covers this topic in greater detail.

10. The Job Required More than One Person

Going back to overconfidence, some projects need teamwork to make your dream work! Be realistic about how much people-power is required for the project – especially for those that involve heavy lifting or two sets of hands. Even Mr. Universe wouldn’t be able to install kitchen cabinets by himself

11. Ignoring Safety

DIY mistakes can be not only costly, but dangerous as well. According to the Angi survey, of the participants who experienced a “major” mistake during their DIY projects, 47% noted that the incident involved serious injury, while 44% mentioned starting a fire or falling off a roof or ladder. Safety is paramount when performing any DIY project, and taking all the recommended precautions can help you avoid accidents.

Take your time, and follow all safety guidelines when using tools or other equipment. Wear all necessary protective gear for the task at hand – which could include dust masks, safety glasses, hearing protection, long-sleeved clothing, or gloves. Whatever amount of money you’d save on such protective clothing isn’t worth the risk of injury that could send you to the ER, and result in medical bills and lost wages – as well as after-effects that may affect your health and well-being for the rest of your life!

Should You DIY or Call a Professional?

Of course, this is a question only you can answer. But if you’ve decided that doing it yourself is more demanding than you thought, leave it to our pros at The Paint Manager! We have the experience, skill, equipment and supplies to make sure the job is done correctly and safely!

How to Create a Great Home Office

The work-from-home movement that started during the COVID-19 pandemic shows no signs of reversing. Advancements in technology and software that make collaborative work easy allow people to do their job efficiently from any location. Sometimes, however, this idea requires planning and ingenuity to become a practical reality. We’ve pulled together the following advice from space planning and interior design professionals so you can create a great home office!

How to Get the Most from the Space You Have

Most people live in an average-size home, and may not have the luxury of an extra room that can be designated as a dedicated home office. If you do happen to have a spare bedroom, congratulations! If not, look at your home with fresh eyes. You may see potential in some areas that can provide the workspace you need, as well as the necessary separation from household activities and distractions.

Is there an area of your home that can do double-duty? This Old House suggests the following spaces that could be likely candidates, depending upon the layout of your home and other factors:

Kitchen – If you’re a single person or two-person household and cooking meals is mostly a matter of microwaving frozen dinners, the kitchen isn’t likely to be a big center of activity. Setting up a small office may be possible if there’s counter space at a comfortable height to work while seated, and clearance underneath for a chair. Even better if there’s enough empty space for a desk, chair and equipment, such as a printer.

Part of a butler’s pantry – This type of area is typically found in older homes. If you’re making only partial use of it, the rest of the space could accommodate a small office.

Dining room – With today’s casual lifestyles, a formal dining room is typically seldom used. Rearranging the furniture to comfortably accommodate a desk, chair and equipment may be an option. Or sell or donate your existing dining room furniture and buy a more compact dining set that doesn’t take as much space. This will make your home office feel more spacious.

Closet – Pressing a closet into service as a home office is now so common there’s even a name for it – cloffice! The Nordroom offers plenty of creative yet practical suggestions for fashioning one. This will necessitate removing the existing clothes poles and probably shelves to install new shelving that’s conducive to serving as a desk and storage.

Tucked into an alcove – If your home has an alcove or an irregularly shaped space – such as under the stairs – you’ve never quite figured out how to use, this could be your answer!

Armoire – While not on This Old House’s list, this piece of furniture was popular for use as a home entertainment center before the advent of flat-screen televisions. If you have one that’s long since outlived its usefulness for this purpose, re-purpose it as a self-contained home office!

Creating a Comfortable, Healthy Environment – Desk, Chair and Lighting

You can look for budget solutions for many aspects of your home office, but three elements are absolutely essential to your ability to work comfortably and efficiently – your desk, chair and lighting. Yes, we mean ergonomics! Our blog post – “Transform Your Workspace and Increase Productivity” – describes ergonomics as follows:

“Defined as the science of fitting a workplace to the user’s needs, ergonomics aims to increase efficiency and productivity and reduce discomfort. An understanding of ergonomics can prevent most workplace injuries by adjusting tools to the user, putting an emphasis on proper posture to reduce the impact of repetitive movements. Desks, chairs, monitors, keyboards and lighting all need to be assessed when creating a workspace, whether it is at a company office or home office.”

Ergonomic fundamentals include:

The top of the monitor should be below or at eye level. Eyes should be 24-36 inches from the computer screen.
Feet should be on a footrest or resting on the floor.
A slightly reclined chair posture is best to reduce pressure on your spine and minimize lower back pain.

The quality of lighting in your home office is also highly important. Inadequate or bad lighting can strain your eyes and cause fatigue, as well as headaches and irritability. Interior design expert Coral Nafie recommends the following in her article for The Spruce:

“To reduce eye strain, have lighting installed over your reading area, on the computer, and behind you so that there’s no reflection off the computer monitor. Place the computer monitor a comfortable distance from your chair so that you don’t need to squint or use reading glasses to read the screen. By reducing eye strain, you’ll be able to work longer and more safely.”

How to Use Paint or Wallpaper to Define the Workspace

Setting the right mood that allows you to focus on work is essential for a home office. Defining your workspace through paint or wallpaper helps establish the psychological mindset that this is the place to get down to business.

If you have an entire room to devote to your office, choose a neutral paint color. Add pops of color through accessories and wall art. If using part of a space in a larger room, paint (or wallpaper) the wall that your work area faces as an accent wall. It can be a brighter, bolder color than the other walls, but be sure it doesn’t clash.

Also, consider the type of work you’ll be doing – as well as your own personality! Those engaged in more artistic fields may want a home office that mirrors their nature. In such cases, out-of-the-box or bold colors can help convert a drab room into a creative one. Others may prefer to keep their home office looking tidy and clean-cut, in which case paint colors will be less distracting, such as neutrals. Whatever the case, the paint color or wallpaper you choose should be a reflection of how you want to structure your work environment and workflow.

If you go for a cloffice, you can line the interior walls with wallpaper to make a design statement that uplifts and inspires you throughout your workday! The Nordroom’s article has plenty of cloffice photos with ideas that are sure to get your creative juices flowing! As you’ll see, even a linen closet can be transformed into a functional and stylish workspace.

Whether you work for a company that allows you to work from home or work for yourself, you’ll be more productive – and happy – if your home office is functional, comfortable and inviting. Should you need help with planning, color and/or wallpaper recommendations – as well as painting and wallpaper installation – call us!

Make Sure Your Property is Ready for Hurricane Season with Our Checklist

The Sunshine State has welcomed many new residents over the past year! If this is your first hurricane season here, you may have questions about how to best prepare your home against possible damage. Even if it isn’t, having a casual attitude about hurricane preparedness can spell trouble should a major storm take aim at Central Florida. Because it’s always better to be safe than sorry, take the necessary time to inspect your property with our checklist!

In addition to following the steps listed here, we encourage you to read our previous blog posts on this topic for additional details:

Start at the Top – Have Your Roof Inspected

During a hurricane, your house is only as secure as its roof. West Roofing Systems, Inc., Marketing Manager Aubrey Barto recommends scheduling an evaluation on an annual basis.

“Having a knowledgeable contractor on your roof before hurricane season will ensure that there are no issues on your roof that a hurricane can make worse,” says Barto. “Before hurricane season is the best time to have a contractor perform repairs and double check the integrity of your roof.”

The following areas of the roof should be included in the inspection:

Membrane – make sure there are no rips, punctures, holes or effects of aging.
Flashings – make sure all flashings are correctly attached and sealed.
Mounted Equipment – make sure the penetrations are properly sealed and that the equipment is securely attached.
Gutters/Downspouts – make sure all gutters, drains, and downspouts are properly attached and flowing to the proper location.

You can even do one better with two yearly inspections: one before and one after hurricane season. A maintenance program is a great way to be proactive with your roof system. Having a roofing contractor keep up the maintenance of your roof is one of the best ways to ensure that your roof is ready to stand up to incoming hurricanes. Regular maintenance can catch preliminary roof issues before they get worse, saving you money.

Mark Kaufman Roofing elaborates on needed repairs that an inspection may detect. “This might include getting damaged or missing shingles or tiles replaced, having missing metal panel anchors replaced, getting any flashing defects dealt with, and making sure that loose soffits, ventilation turbines and gable end/eave vents are properly secured. Have hurricane straps or truss tie-downs added in the attic to bolster the roof/wall connections and bracing installed if your roof has gable ends taller than 48 inches.”

Check the Condition of Your Home’s Exterior Walls, Windows and Doors

Clean rain gutters – Leaves, branches and other debris can cause overflow, which can damage your siding and/or roof. If your gutters are clogged, the backed-up water will sit on your roof, and the probability of water entering your house will increase. Also repair any deficiencies – such as sagging or poorly-attached sections, or loose or poorly-placed downspouts, if they were not included in the roof inspection.

Hire a professional if necessary. NEVER attempt a property maintenance or improvement job that you don’t have the experience, ability or equipment to perform safely. This advice applies across the board.

Check the caulking around doors and windows – Good caulking is the first line of defense against water intrusion that can occur during the prolonged driving rains of a hurricane or lingering tropical storm. Water that seeps into past-its-prime caulking also can damage door and window frames. Keep in mind that Florida’s high summer temperatures take a toll on caulk around these components, making it necessary to reseal them more frequently than in moderate climates.

It is crucial to caulk cracks on the exterior of your house before a storm hits. A wall leak, when left unrepaired, can damage your home – especially when breached by hurricane-force winds and rain.

The most weather-resistant types of caulk are silicone, urethane and Elastomeric latex caulk – which is an especially good choice for our climate, as it is durable and can be painted. Other options include acrylic and latex caulk, with the latter being easy to apply.

Check the Condition of Your Screen Pool Enclosure

Inadequate bracing is often to blame when a hurricane takes down a screen enclosure. Pool enclosure hurricane braces reinforce the structural integrity of the pool enclosure. Verifying that your pool cage has hurricane braces before a storm arrives can minimize damage.

Also, check your enclosure’s hardware. Screws are small, but they can have a major effect when it comes to pool enclosure hurricane safety. Florida’s high humidity accelerates rusting, and rusted fasteners leave a structure weak. Checking that your enclosure is built with corrosion-resistant fasteners is an easy way to ensure that it has the strength to survive strong winds.

Assess Your Yard

Paying attention to the condition of your trees and trimming branches and/or removing dead or declining trees should be done before hurricane season, but there’s still time if you act now, as August through October are peak months. Heavy branches hanging over your roof can snap off in a hurricane and crash through your roof, or crush the top of your vehicle. The same for an uprooted tree. Branches also can become projectiles and crash through windows.

Be sure to call a pro for this job. According to TCPalm, trees trimmed by a professional are less likely to fall. Also, most people lack the proper equipment, safety clothing and gear – not to mention the necessary physical strength and stamina (especially working in our triple-digit summer afternoon temperatures).

Other hurricane-ready tree trimming advice from TCPalm includes:

Thinning a tree allows wind to blow through its canopy, offering less wind resistance in a storm. Prune young trees to create a single leader, which will grow into a strong trunk.
Minimize damage to mature trees by removing weak branches and reducing limb lengths.
Hatracked trees become sails. Removing a tree’s canopy encourages bushy growth, making a tree top-heavy and wind-resistant. Hatracking also is illegal.
“Lifted” trees lead to broken branches. “Lifting” is a practice in which lower branches are removed for clearance underneath. It can cause branch breakage and makes trees top-heavy.

However, it isn’t only your landscaping, but the items in your yard and on your patio that need to be secured. Look around your property to identify what you’ll need to bring indoors, move to a covered area or secure in place. Objects such as chairs, tables, toys and pool cleaning tools can become dangerous projectiles in hurricane-force winds and should be stored indoors. Also take in hanging pots, outdoor torches, string lights and other such items. Bring container plants inside. If this isn’t possible, line them against a wall in a covered area. You can bring a gas grill indoors, but leave the propane tank outside, chained in an upright position to a solid object or structure.

Don’t throw patio furniture into the pool, as this can damage the pool’s finish – especially if you have a vinyl liner pool.

Making a plan now about where to place and store outdoor plants, furniture and other items will save you the additional stress of scrambling in panic mode about them should a hurricane warning be issued for your area.

Being sure that you are prepared for a hurricane can help you feel more confident, knowing you’ve taken every step to make your home safe and secure. If you need help getting ready, The Paint Manager has served Central Florida since 2000 with quality professional services that include roof repair, caulking, gutter cleaning and painting.

Visit our website to learn about the many other services we provide – including pressure washing, roof cleaning and stump removal. Become a member of The Paint Manager to receive a 15% year-‘round member’s discount. Contact us to learn more about our services and membership discount offer.

What You Need to Know About Lead Paint

Many house hunters seek an older home for its architectural details and character – qualities they believe are lacking in new construction. For homes built before 1978, however, there may be danger lurking beneath their charming features – lead-based paint.

Once widely used for exterior and interior applications, lead was added to paint to accelerate drying, increase durability, maintain a fresh appearance and resist moisture. Lead also made paint colors bright and rich, thereby boosting lead paint’s popularity among homeowners. Although its health hazards were reported long before the mid-20th century, the substance wasn’t banned for use in paint on the national level until 1978 – although some states banned it even earlier.

Why Lead Paint is a Hazard – Both Interior and Exterior

As you probably already know, lead is a toxic substance, exposure to which can cause the following symptoms:

Headaches
Irritability
Loss of appetite
Memory loss
Weakness
Diminished motor skills
Abdominal pain
High blood pressure
Constipation
Nausea
Depression
Feeling distracted

Long-term chronic health conditions involve every major organ – such as heart and kidney disease, as well as encephalopathy, which is a term for any disease of the brain that alters brain function or structure.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), “Lead is particularly dangerous to children because their growing bodies absorb more lead than adults do and their brains and nervous systems are more sensitive to the damaging effects of lead … A pregnant woman’s exposure to lead … is of particular concern because it can result in exposure to her developing baby.”

Lead-based paint is a silent hazard. It poses no immediate risk as long as it’s undisturbed. However, once it begins to peel and flake, people and pets can become exposed. Young children, especially, tend to chew on railings or other paint-covered surfaces, or touch walls and then put their hands in their mouth. On home exteriors, lead paint that chips off and falls on the ground also contaminates the soil.

As home expert Lauren Phillips writes in her article for Real Simple, “Lead-based paint is most dangerous when it is deteriorating – peeling, chipping, chalking, cracking, etc. Take extreme caution if you plan to disturb the paint for a big renovation, a repair, or simply a new coat. These activities can create toxic lead dust.”

If you own an older home and notice interior or exterior paint cracking and/or peeling, don’t just hope for the best. Testing the existing paint is the only way to know for certain. Although there are home testing kits for lead that are inexpensive and widely available, according to the EPA, they are not particularly accurate. Our blog post – “How to Stay Safe When Painting Homes With Lead-Based Paint” – covers this topic in greater detail.

Per EPA recommendations, look for a lead abatement company to perform the test. The Paint Manager is a Lead-Safe EPA Certified Firm that has received certification to conduct lead-based paint renovation, repair and painting activities. Please visit the Certifications and Credentials page of our website to view The Paint Manager’s certification.

Should you be in the market for an older home, be aware that although the seller is required to disclose if lead-based paint is present, the seller may not know about it. The federal lead disclosure requirements can be found at 42 U.S.C.A. §§ 4851-56. Those selling their home “as-is” must also disclose the existence of lead paint.

Can You Paint Over Lead Paint?

While this would seem to be an easy solution, there are several factors to consider. According to John McCarter of McCarter Construction, if the existing lead-based paint and surface are in good condition, painting over it can form a protective barrier against the lead paint’s toxins. This process is known as encapsulation.

However, McCarter cautions that not just any kind of paint will safely cover the older, lead-based paint. “There are specific paints qualified as encapsulants that must be used to ensure that dust and fumes are minimized. This special paint is applied carefully and precisely over the lead-based paint to seal it, preventing toxic elements from being inhaled.

“Although homeowners can apply an encapsulant on their own, hiring a professional who is certified to do lead-based paint treatment is the safest way to properly encapsulate a painted space.”

McCarter emphasizes that encapsulation isn’t the solution for every situation.

“If your home exterior [or interior] paint is peeling or flaking, deteriorating, chipped or bubbling, then encapsulation is not a good idea. This is because any paint used to do the encapsulation is very likely to peel and flake as well. Eventually, the toxins underneath the top layer of certified encapsulant paint will still be exposed, creating dangerous conditions for anyone who comes in contact with it.”

Why Removing Lead Paint Isn’t a DIY Job

Should your lead-based paint not be a candidate for encapsulation, removal and repainting by an EPA-certified lead-based paint mitigation professional is the only option that can guarantee the job is performed to standards that will ensure a safe, non-toxic environment. Homeowners lack the equipment, personal protective clothing, training and experience to safely remove lead-based paint.

As Phillips points out, to avoid contact with toxic lead dust, painters must wear filtered masks, specialized suits and gloves. They also must seal the area (if it is not a whole-house renovation), so the dust doesn’t spread to other rooms, and properly dispose of any materials – especially if demolition is involved. Your health and that of your family are not worth risking in an attempt to save money.

“If lead paint is present, contractors are legally obligated to follow these steps and other lead-safe work practices (governed by the Renovation, Repair, and Painting, or RPR, Rule) to reduce risk to employees, residents of the home, and the surrounding environment. Failure to follow these rules can lead to a hefty fine.”

Assuming you’ve already done some online research on removing lead-based paint yourself, pay attention to the red flags that come up. Some websites mention using a wet/dry shop vacuum with a HEPA air filter to clean up lead-based paint chips and dust from the work area. However, they fail to mention how to dispose of contaminated items – including clothing. An EPA-certified abatement company will provide environmentally safe disposal methods that keep lead out of the landfill – and out of your life once and for all.

Don’t Take Chances With Lead-Based Paint Removal – Leave It To Our Professionals!

As mentioned earlier, The Paint Manager is a Lead-Safe EPA Certified Firm that has received certification to conduct lead-based paint renovation, repair and painting activities. We can test for the presence of lead-based paint, as well as remove it or properly encapsulate it, according to the situation. We also provide this service to owners of commercial and industrial properties. Don’t take chances by doing this hazardous job yourself!

The Paint Manager has been proudly serving Central Florida homeowners for over 20 years with experienced, dedicated and professional services that include full-service exterior and interior house painting, roof repair and cleaning, drywall repair, popcorn ceiling texture removal, cabinet refinishing and so much more!

How to Stain a Wood Deck

Many Central Florida homes have a wood deck, which creates (or expands) a usable outdoor area for relaxation, recreation and entertaining. However, a wood deck requires maintenance to keep it a beautiful asset to your property – as well as extend its life. Decks are exposed to Florida’s harsh environmental conditions – including intense sunlight, triple-digit summer temperatures and heavy rains – which can quickly expedite wear and tear. Staining your deck – and periodic refinishing – are essential to keeping your deck in top condition for years to come.

How to Prepare the Deck

As with all home maintenance and improvement projects, proper preparation is the key to success. Home Depot advises that you thoroughly clean the deck surface before staining to ensure the stain coats are applied evenly and do not peel when dry. The step-by-step process is as follows:

Remove patio furniture, potted plants and other items from the deck.
Sweep the deck to remove all leaves and other debris. 
Apply wood cleaner to the surface of the deck. Let it remain on the wood surface for about 15 minutes, then work the cleaner into the surface of the deck with a scrub brush. Scrub thoroughly to remove all residue.
Rinse the cleaner from the deck using a garden hose or a pressure washer equipped with a 45-degree tip set at 1200 to 1400 psi. Spray with the grain of the wood. 
Allow the deck to dry, which could take as long as a day or two.
Once the deck is dry, use an orbital sander with 60-grit or 80-grit sandpaper to remove any remaining residue from the deck.
Pressure washing is also an option for cleaning and prepping the surface of the deck, particularly older decks.

Because a thorough cleaning is necessary to achieving the best result, the importance of pressure washing can’t be overstated. If it’s necessary, you need to decide whether you can (or should) do it yourself, or hire a professional. Our blog post – “Pressure Washing: Should You Hire a Pro or DIY?” – covers this topic in detail, giving you all the information to make this decision.

Important: If your deck is newly built using pressure-treated lumber, the lumber will need to dry for two to four months to allow the deck stain to adhere properly.

After the deck is completely dry, inspect it closely for wood damage. Replace any broken, rotted or warped boards. Check the surface for broken screws or exposed nails and replace them if needed.

You’ll also need to determine whether your deck’s existing stain is water-based or oil-based. According to Home Depot, water-based stains need to be stripped off before you apply a new finish, while oil-based stains can be recoated after you use a deck cleaner. To test the stain, apply a small amount of deck stripper to a small area on your deck – preferably an inconspicuous area. Let it sit for about 15 minutes, then wipe it off with a rag. If the stain comes off, the stain is water-based. Follow the directions on the deck stripper to remove this stain from the deck. If it does not come off, the stain is oil-based. Oil-based stains can be recoated after you use a deck cleaner.

Important: Water-based and oil-based finishes aren’t compatible. You can’t (or shouldn’t) put a water-based finish over an oil-based finish.

Tools and Supplies You’ll Need

If you’re staining your deck yourself, Olympic recommends the following basic tools:

Natural bristle brush for alkyd oil stains.
Synthetic bristle brush for acrylic oil stains.
Large bucket (5 gallons)
Stirring sticks.
Roller.
Roller tray.
Stain pad with a pole.
Painter’s tape.
Drop cloth.
Rag (for clean-up).
Mineral spirits (if using an alkyd stain).

Proper Stain Application Techniques and Tips

Along with proper prep work, proper application sequence and technique will give you pro-perfect results! As DIY expert Larry Bilotti advises in his article for Bob Vila, choose a weekend that does not have rain in the forecast. “If possible, avoid applying the stain in direct sunlight. (Always test the stain on a small area and let it dry to make certain the color is the one you want.)”

Interior designer Brian Patrick Flynn is even more specific in his article for HGTV:

“For best results, apply stain when the temperatures are between 50 and 90 degrees, and avoid staining in direct sunlight if possible. Sun dries out stain quickly and can create uneven color or brush marks. Check the weather forecast to make sure you have several dry days ahead.”

Use painter’s tape to protect areas you don’t want stained – such as your home’s siding. Then, sweep the deck one more time to remove dirt and small pieces of debris that may have settled on the surface since the pressure washing or deck cleaning.

Finally, it’s time to get started! Home Depot provides the following instructions:

Stir the stain thoroughly before applying and pour into a paint tray. Since exterior finishes have a higher solids content, it’s important that materials are stirred frequently.
Apply the stain to a test patch of wood to confirm that you’re satisfied with its color and appearance.
Cover the deck surface with towels or a drop cloth below the stair railing and around the balusters and spindles before staining them. They’ll catch falling stain drips and specks and protect the deck surface.
Begin by staining the railings, posts and balusters with a paint brush or hand-held paint pad. Use long, even strokes.
Stain the inner and outer sides of the deck stair handrails.

Next, apply stain to the deck boards. Before beginning, plan an “escape route” to avoid staining yourself into a corner!

Stain the deck boards using a paint pad applicator attached to a pole, or a pole-equipped roller. An applicator or roller allows you to cover a large deck surface with stain in less time. It is less labor intensive than staining a large deck with a paint brush by hand and more accurate than using a pressurized sprayer. 
Apply one coat of stain in long, even strokes. Usually, one coat will be enough.
Use a paint brush to stain between cracks and in any problem areas.

However, Bilotti recommends using a bristle brush to apply the stain, start by heavily coating the open-end grain of the boards. Then brush two to three boards from one end to the other in long, smooth strokes. To avoid lap marks, make sure that the leading edge remains wet and that wet stain is brushed into wet stain. This may come down to a matter of personal preference in application method, so look at each method and decide which will work better for your situation.

Finally, apply stain to the steps. Use a large paint brush or hand-held paint pad applicator for best results. Deliver an even coat of stain, then if needed, add another coat.

Important: Don’t over-apply stain. This may cause it to crack or peel when exposed to moisture. Too much stain will also interfere with the drying process and final look.

Let dry at least three days before returning patio furniture and other items to your deck, and start enjoying! However, be sure to keep up your good work. Deck staining needs to be redone about every two to three years. As a general rule of thumb, if water beads up on the deck, the stain is still doing its job.

As you’ve learned, keeping a good stain on your wood deck is essential to its beauty, function and longevity. If you’ve also learned that it’s a process requiring a good deal of work – from preparation to application – that’s what our pros at The Paint Manager are here for!

The Paint Manager has served Central Florida since 2000 with quality professional residential and commercial painting services. Visit our website to learn about many other services we provide – including pressure washing, roof cleaning and stump removal. Become a member of The Paint Manager to receive a 15% year-‘round member’s discount. Contact us to learn more about our services and membership discount offer. We look forward to meeting you!