Pastora wants to repaint her house a different color after 10 years and is wondering if she needs to use a primer or if pressure washing will suffice. Let’s take a look at what’s needed to get the best results.
Question from Pastora:
My house was painted 10 years ago, now I want to paint the house with a different color. Do I have to primer the walls first, or will cleaning it with a power washer be enough? Thanks, Pastora.
Hi Pastora, great question! Whether you need primer depends on a few factors, so let’s break it down to help you decide.
Do You Always Need Primer?
Not necessarily. If your existing paint is in good condition (no peeling, cracking, or chalking), you might be able to skip primer. However, if you’re changing to a significantly lighter or darker color, or if the surface is damaged or stained, a primer is highly recommended.
* It’s also worth trying a small test spot of your new paint on an inconspicuous area to see how the new paint color adheres and looks before committing to the full project. This will give you insight on how the color hides the previous color and how it performs in general, just clean the area first.
Here are some scenarios I can think of where using a primer is a good idea:
- Significant Color Change: If you’re going from a dark color to a light one (or vice versa), primer helps with coverage and ensures the new color will look consistent.
- Chalky Surface: Over time, exterior paint can sometimes develop a chalky residue, even after pressure washing, which can make it hard for new paint to adhere properly, without mechanically cleaning these areas and applying a primer.
- Damaged Paint: If there are cracks, peeling, or bare spots, primer will help create a smooth, consistent base for the new paint.
- Patches or Repairs: If any patches or repairs have been made, then applying a primer first is highly recommended. If you do not apply a primer in these areas, then the paint will dry faster, possibly creating a lighter or varied version of the color, compared to the rest of the wall.
Is Power Washing Enough?
Power washing is a great first step! It removes dirt, dust, and loose paint, which are essential for getting a good bond between the old paint and the new paint. Power washing alone won’t address issues like stains, chalking, or unsightly caulking repairs. These will need to be addressed using a mechanic cleaning method, like a stiff bristled brush and a mild dish soap.
Here’s how to prepare the surface:
- Pressure Wash: Use a power washer to clean the walls thoroughly and be mindful about getting too close and damaging the stucco. Don't be so far away that you are not using enough force to blast away more stubborn dirt either, though.
Make sure all loose paint flakes and dirt are removed from the wall, which will prevent the new paint from sticking. - Inspect the Surface: Once the walls are dry, check for any peeling paint, cracks, or chalky residue. These issues might require cleaning, patching, and/or priming.
When to Use Both Power Washing and Primer
If your walls are in good shape, but you’re making a major color change, you might still want to spot-prime areas where the old color could bleed through (like darker patches or stains).
Another good tip to keep in mind is that a high-quality paint is worth the extra money when it comes to painting stucco surfaces.
Just to Recap:
- Test a small area on the back of your house first, in an area that no one will notice to see how the new paint will perform.
- If the Walls Are in Good Condition: A power wash and a high-quality paint should work just fine for a fresh coat of color.
- If There’s Damage or a Big Color Change: Clean the walls first, then apply a primer before painting to ensure the best results.
Pastora, taking the time to prep your walls properly will make a big difference in how your new paint looks and lasts. If the current paint is in great shape, a power wash and high-quality paint might be all you need.
But if you’re changing colors dramatically or notice any issues after cleaning, using a primer will be worth the effort. Good luck with your project!