Quick Answer
Move cars out of the driveway, clear about three feet around the house, trim shrubs that touch the siding, turn off sprinklers, unlock gates, and make a plan for pets. The crew takes care of covering, power washing, scraping, repairs, and caulking.
A good painting crew handles almost all of the prep. Still, a few simple steps on your end make the project faster, safer, and easier for everyone. Here's what to do before we arrive, and what you can expect us to take care of.
What To Do Before Painting Day
- Move cars out of the driveway and away from the house so we can set ladders and spray safely.
- Clear the perimeter. Move patio furniture, grills, planters, and decorations a few feet from the walls.
- Trim shrubs and branches that touch the house, so we can reach every surface.
- Turn off sprinklers the day before and during the project, since wet siding can't be painted.
- Unlock gates, and let us know about pets so we can keep them safe.
- Close windows on the days we power wash and spray.
What Your Painter Should Handle
- Covering plants, walkways, fixtures, and windows
- Power washing every surface
- Scraping and sanding loose paint
- Replacing rotted wood and priming bare spots
- Caulking gaps and seams
- Daily cleanup and a final walkthrough
Weather matters. Kansas City gets plenty of rain in spring and fall, so we schedule around the forecast to make sure paint goes on dry and cures properly. If rain moves in, we'll let you know right away.
What To Expect During The Project
Most exteriors take a few days to a week, depending on size and repairs. You'll get regular updates, and you don't need to be home for most of it. At the end, we walk the house with you, touch up anything you spot, and your written warranty is sent with your invoice.
Ready to get on the schedule? Request a free estimate, or see our full process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I Take Down Outdoor Decorations And Hoses?
Yes. Clear off wreaths, hose reels, planters, and anything mounted on the siding. If something is hard to move, tell us and we'll work around it.
Do I Need To Close My Windows?
Yes, on power washing and spraying days. We mask the windows, but keeping them closed keeps mist and spray out.
Will My Plants Be OK?
Yes. We cover beds and shrubs near the house while we work and uncover them at the end of each day.
Cade Zerr is the owner of Arrowhead Painting KC, leading a team with more than 35 years of combined painting experience. More about Cade