What are the steps to paint a house exterior?

Short answer

Wash the siding, let it dry, scrape and sand loose paint, and repair rot. Then caulk gaps, spot prime bare wood, and apply two coats of quality exterior acrylic in dry weather within the temperature range on the can. Prep is most of the work and most of the lifespan.

Order of work

Wash with a garden sprayer and brush or a careful low-pressure wash. High pressure can force water behind siding.
Let the wood dry for at least a couple of dry days.
Scrape all loose and peeling paint, then feather the edges with sanding.
Replace or epoxy-fill rotted wood.
Prime bare wood and repairs with an exterior primer.
Caulk seams and gaps with paintable exterior caulk (never caulk the bottom lap edge of clapboards, which must breathe).
Paint top to bottom: siding first, then trim, doors and shutters.

Safety and older homes

Houses built before 1978 may have lead paint. Scraping and sanding it without lead-safe practices can poison children and pets. Test first, or hire a firm that is EPA Lead-Safe Certified.

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Updated September 2026. Always follow the directions on your product's label; manufacturer instructions come first.