New Jersey exteriors take a beating: humid summers, salt air near the shore, freeze-thaw winters, and strong sun. Paint that's applied over a poorly prepared surface will blister and peel within a couple of years, no matter how good the paint is.
Good prep starts with cleaning. Dirt, mildew, and chalking paint have to be washed off, and the surface has to dry fully before anything is applied. Painting over a damp or dirty wall is the most common reason for early failure.
Next comes repair. Loose and peeling paint is scraped back to a sound edge and sanded smooth. Rotted trim or siding is replaced rather than painted over. Gaps and cracks are caulked so water can't get behind the paint. Bare wood and patched areas get primer, which gives the finish coat something to bond to.
Then the paint itself. Two coats of a quality exterior paint, applied in suitable weather, is the standard. That generally means temperatures in the 50s or above and no rain in the forecast, which is why late spring and early fall are the best windows in our area.
If you're thinking about repainting this season, call (732) 807-9847 and we'll look at your home and give you a free written estimate, including what prep it needs.