Introduction
Painting the exterior of your home can seem daunting enough without having to worry about the weather. As a homeowner in Philadelphia, I know rain is a common occurrence that can really put a damper on your exterior painting plans. But with some preparation and planning, you can absolutely paint the outside of your house even when the forecast calls for showers. Here’s my guide to exterior painting in rainy weather, from choosing the right paint to setting up tarps and tents to protect your progress. With my tips, you can get a fresh new look for your home’s exterior without waiting weeks or months for perfect weather.
Choosing the Right Exterior Paint
When you’re painting in humid or wet conditions, the kind of paint you use makes all the difference. Here are the types of exterior paints that can withstand the rain:
- 100% acrylic latex paint – This is your best bet for a rainy climate. Acrylic latex paints are water-based, so they can adhere and cure even when the surface is damp. The binders allow the paint to stick through moisture. Look for exterior acrylic paints that specifically say “100% acrylic” on the label.
- Oil-based paints and primers – While oil-based paints take longer to dry, they create a watertight, protective finish on exterior surfaces. Use an oil-based primer when prepping surfaces for the top acrylic paint layer.
- Enamels – For very wet conditions, enamels provide extra protection. The finish is glasslike and offers great resistance to rain and humidity. Enamel paints contain varnishes that make them ultra durable.
- Masonry and elastomeric paints – These are flexible paints made for masonry, stucco, concrete and other textured surfaces. They can expand and contract without cracking. Elastomeric paints contain silicone or rubber to create a waterproof barrier.
Preparing Surfaces for Rainy Weather Painting
Proper prep is crucial when painting in wet weather. Here are some tips:
- Clean surfaces thoroughly to remove dirt, mildew and chalking paint so the new paint can adhere
- Check for leaks or moisture issues and repair them before painting
- Allow extra dry time between coats, especially if a surface feels cool or damp
- Use oil-based primers on bare wood, aluminum, stucco, vinyl and other slick surfaces
- Apply primer within the proper temperature range to allow for proper drying
- Use paint additives that slow drying time in high humidity
- Fill cracks and holes with exterior caulk and patch damaged areas
Setting Up Tarps and Enclosures
If rains are expected, set up tarps over surfaces before you start painting. Make sure to weigh down the tarps so they don’t blow away. You can also create temporary enclosures using PVC or metal framing and heavy plastic sheeting. This protects both the house and the painters from getting drenched.
When the weather clears, remove tarps and plastic coverings to allow surfaces to dry fully before continuing to paint. Areas that get wet will need extra drying time before applying the next coat.
Planning Your Painting Schedule Around Rain
Check the weather forecast regularly and plan to paint on dry days. Avoid painting late in the day when cooler temperatures could bring dew and moisture. If you do get caught in a sudden rain shower, stop painting right away.
Once the rain stops, wait at least 24 hours before painting again. Use a moisture meter to check if surfaces are dry enough. If they still feel cool or damp, allow even more drying time. Rushing to paint over moist surfaces could ruin your paint job.
Conclusion
With the right planning and preparation, you can absolutely paint the exterior of your home even during rainy weather here in Philadelphia. Just be sure to use high-quality 100% acrylic latex paint, prime surfaces properly, set up tarps or enclosures, and keep a close eye on the weather forecast. Avoid painting late in the day or over visibly wet surfaces.
If you don’t want to deal with the hassle of exterior painting in the rain yourself, contact the professional house painters at House Painters in Philadelphia. Their expertise with exterior painting in all weather conditions will give you outstanding results you’ll love.