Having your home painted before the winter months is an important way to keep your home looking good and fresh. Whether you're going to paint the exterior or the interior of your home, there are some things to keep in mind.
Avoiding winter storms
During a winter storm, your home's roof will be the sturdiest and most sheltered from the elements. However, this is not to say that your home is impervious to the forces of nature. Fortunately, you can take precautions to minimize winter damage and save yourself some money.
The best time to prepare for winter is during the fall. The weather is not only cooler, but it is also the best time to do some outside work. For instance, installing a programmable thermostat, trimming tree branches, and cleaning out gutters are all worthy pursuits.
One of the best things you can do is to keep a close eye on the weather. If the forecast is for a storm, err on the side of caution and take some of your own precautions. You might also want to check on your elderly neighbors. It's a good idea to have a supply of firewood on hand.
Another thing to check for is a power outage. If you've got a backup generator, you're in luck. If not, be sure to check the flashlights and batteries.
Preventing termites
Termites are very destructive pests that can chew through your home without you realizing it. They can also cause billions of dollars of damage each year. If you're not sure how to protect your home, you should contact a professional pest control service.
Termites need water and cellulose (plant matter) to survive. Using dehumidifiers and air conditioners to dry the indoor air can make your home less attractive to termites.
Termites will come into your repaint your house before winter through gaps, cracks, and seams. Sealing these gaps will keep termites at bay. If there are multiple cracks, you may want to hire a professional to do the job.
Termites are minuscule and will only need about 1/32 of an inch to enter your home. To prevent termites from entering your home, you should remove any loose wood and debris from the perimeter of your structure. You should also remove cellulose-based materials from your home.
Termites are extremely attracted to moist and damp conditions. Make sure your house is properly ventilated and that the crawl space is encapsulated. This will reduce humidity and prevent wood rot.
Allowing enough time for paint to dryWhether you are painting the inside or outside of your home, it's important to consider the temperature and humidity of the surrounding area. This will determine how long it takes for your paint to dry.
The most efficient painting method involves allowing adequate time for the paint to dry. In the winter, temperatures are usually lower than in the summer, which increases the drying time. Using a dehumidifier before you begin your painting project can help reduce humidity levels, speeding up the drying process.
Using a fan to distribute air around the room will also help speed up the drying process. Using an infrared heater can also help pass through a thick paint film, increasing the speed with which it dries.
Using the proper paint for the job can also be beneficial. Oil based finishes have different temperature requirements than water based paints. Some can even withstand freeze-thaw cycles.
While it's not an exact science, painting with the appropriate temperatures and humidity will ensure a better finish and a longer lasting paint job.
Color improves moodGetting a new coat of paint on your home can give you a new outlook and boost your mood. The winter months can be dull, and many people suffer from winter blues, a feeling of fatigue and unmotivation. By repainting your home before the holidays, you can improve your mood and help alleviate winter malaise.
Another way to improve your mood is to paint your front door. It's a great way to brighten up your home and welcome guests. You can also add a little pop of color to your interior closets. If you're unsure about what colors to choose, try a free color try-on can of paint from your local paint store. You can print out a color sample in less than 10 minutes and get it delivered to your door for no charge.
Yellow is a bright color, which can help increase your energy level, memory, and optimism. It is also considered to be a power color, meaning it can be a good choice for people who are anxious or depressed.