How to Prepare for House Painting

Repairing and preparing wood for longer-lasting paint.

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Required Tools for this Project

Have the necessary tools for this DIY project lined up before you start—you’ll save time and frustration.

    • Hammer
    • Tape measure
    • Caulk gun
    • Cat's paw
    • Nippers
    • Needle-nose pliers
    • Extension ladder
    • Paint scraper
    • Painters tape
    • Pry bar
    • Putty knife
    • Rags
    • Reciprocating saw
    • Roof harness
    • Safety glasses
    • Sanding block
    • Square
    • Paintbrush
    • Utility knife

You'll also need these tools: an offset dovetail saw, metal reciprocating saw blade and holder, and a drop cloth.

Required Materials for this Project

Avoid last-minute shopping trips by having all your materials ready ahead of time. Here's a list.

    • Wood sealer
    • Primer
    • Paint
    • Shims
    • Siding nails
    • Exterior wood filler
    • Wood trim
    • Siding
    • Caulk

Shopping List

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How to Prepare for House Painting

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