As the weather warms up, you’re probably forming a mental checklist of all the spring cleanup tasks you have to accomplish before you can enjoy the summers barbecues and pool parties. When making that list, you should consider exterior house painting first.

The cold wet weather of winter has probably done quite a number on the outside of your home. Whether it’s just dirty or the paint is actually chipping, it might be time for a fresh coat. If you are contemplating taking on this task this spring there are a few points CertaPro Painters of Chicago wants you to consider.

• Paint before putting down mulch or doing any aggressive planting. While you paint, everything will get trampled and may even get spots of paint on them.
• Make sure the outside of the house is clean and dry before beginning. Also start from the top and work down so you do not get paint dripping down your siding.
• Exterior paint forms the most durable, protective finish when the weather is mild, so try to paint when the weather is between 50 degrees F and 80 degrees F.
• Super hot days can cause the paint to dry too quickly and impair good paint film formation. Avoid painting in direct sunlight for the same reason.
• Pick a day that isn’t too windy. The wind can cause the paint to dry too quickly as well. It can also blow leaves or dust into the wet paint which can create mildew and prevent optimal paint film formation.
• Don’t paint when there has been rain within past 24 hours or if it’s predicted it will in the next several days.
• Always apply 2 coats. Either 1 coat of primer and 1 coat of paint or 2 coats of paint.

Painting the exterior of your house can be a big project but it gives you a great opportunity to get outside and enjoy the spring weather. Just don’t forget to check the forecast!