It's that time again--your old wood siding needs new paint. Approaching the job with the right steps and tools can help ensure that you don't have to paint again for years. Here's how to make the most of your prep work in order to get a smooth, attractive finish.

Steps to Paint Prep

Ready to get on that ladder and wield the brush? Follow these steps before you pop open that bucket of paint.

1. Clean the siding. Use a stiff brush with a long handle. Water and a mild soap should suffice for most siding. If your siding is very dirty, consider a power washer, but be sure to follow the instructions exactly. Be careful around windows and check for loose pieces of siding. Rinse the surface well and allow for plenty of drying time.
2. Inspect the paint. If your paint is peeling, blistering, or flaking away from the wood siding, it will need to be removed before you begin with the fresh coat of paint. Keep in mind that much older paint might include lead, and in that case, special procedures will have to be taken to remove it from your home.
3. Strip the paint. If you determine that the paint does not include lead, stripping it from the house will be easier. Remember that paint in good condition can be covered up, but paint with deterioration will have to be removed. There are many different methods you could use, from a heat stripper to chemicals to old-fashioned elbow grease and a stripping knife.
4. Sand the siding. If the paint is newer and in good condition but appears glossy, gently sanding it will give the new paint a better surface. Remember to brush away any dust created by the sanding.
5. Make repairs. Inspect the wood siding carefully for dents, dings, breaks, holes, or any other problems that might cause trouble with your paint job. Repair those areas carefully using a high-quality wood filler. Remember to sand down the filler when it is dry.
6. Replace damaged boards. If the boards have significant damage or signs or rot, replace them with new boards. Take this time to ensure that all other boards are nailed firmly to the house.
7. Prepare! The final step is to use painter's tape on all the windows, put a drop cloth over nearby shrubs, and clean the ground to make way for your ladder.

Remember to always be careful when painting from a ladder. A buddy system works best for safety and to get the work done faster.