To paint a shed that's already painted, you'll need to prepare the surface properly by cleaning, sanding away old paint, and ensuring the wood is treated before applying new paint.
Painting an already painted shed requires careful preparation to ensure the new paint adheres well and provides long-lasting protection. It's not just about applying a new coat; it's about creating a sound base.
Essential Preparation Steps
The most critical part of painting an old shed is the preparation. Skipping these steps can lead to peeling paint and wasted effort.
- Clean the Surface: Before doing anything else, give the shed a good cleaning. Remove any dirt, grime, cobwebs, or mildew. A stiff brush and soapy water or a dedicated exterior cleaner will work. Rinse thoroughly and allow the shed to dry completely.
- Inspect and Repair: Check the wood for any damage, rot, or loose boards. Replace damaged sections and fill any holes or cracks with exterior wood filler. Sand the filled areas smooth once dry.
- Sand Away Old Paint: This step is crucial, especially if the existing paint is old or flaky, as highlighted in the reference.
- Sand it to remove old and flaky paint.
- Wrap some sandpaper around a block for easier handling and even pressure.
- Start sanding in the direction of the woodgrain.
- Ensure you cover every bit of your shed and remove all the old paint that is loose or peeling. You don't necessarily need to remove all paint down to the bare wood if the existing paint is in good condition, but all failing paint must go.
- Sanding also helps to create a better surface for the new paint to stick to.
- Treat the Wood (If Necessary): The reference states, "Treating your shed is essential if you want it to last a long time." If the shed wood is exposed or susceptible to rot and insect damage, consider applying a wood preservative treatment before painting. Ensure the treatment is compatible with the paint you plan to use and allow it to dry completely.
- Prime (Optional but Recommended): Applying a good quality exterior primer is often recommended, especially if you sanded down to bare wood, are changing paint colors drastically, or want extra protection. Primer helps seal the wood, blocks stains, and provides a uniform surface for the topcoat. Choose a primer suitable for exterior wood surfaces and the type of paint you'll use (latex or oil-based).
Painting the Shed
Once the preparation is complete, you're ready to paint.
- Gather Your Materials:
- Exterior paint (suitable for wood)
- Paintbrushes (various sizes for trim and flat areas)
- Rollers (with extension pole for larger areas)
- Paint tray
- Drop cloths or plastic sheeting
- Painter's tape
- Ladder (if needed)
- Protective gear (gloves, safety glasses)
- Choose the Right Day: Pick a day with mild temperatures, low humidity, and no rain forecast. Avoid painting in direct hot sun, which can make the paint dry too quickly and affect adhesion.
- Apply Paint:
- Start with trim work and corners using brushes.
- Move to the larger flat surfaces, using a roller for efficiency.
- Work in sections, applying the paint evenly and following the wood grain.
- Apply thin, even coats rather than one thick coat.
- Allow the first coat to dry completely according to the paint manufacturer's instructions.
- Apply Second Coat: Most sheds will benefit from a second coat for better coverage, durability, and color vibrancy. Repeat the painting process after the first coat has dried.
- Clean Up: Clean brushes and rollers immediately according to the paint type (water for latex, solvent for oil-based). Dispose of materials properly.
Summary of Steps
| Step | Purpose | Key Action |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Clean | Remove dirt, grime | Wash shed exterior |
| 2. Inspect & Repair | Fix damaged wood | Fill holes, replace boards |
| 3. Sand | Remove old/flaky paint, prepare surface | Sand away loose paint, rough surface slightly |
| 4. Treat (If Needed) | Protect wood from rot/insects | Apply wood preservative |
| 5. Prime (Recommended) | Seal, block stains, improve adhesion | Apply exterior primer |
| 6. Paint | Apply protective and decorative finish | Apply 1-2 coats of exterior paint |
By following these steps, especially the crucial preparation involving sanding away old paint and treating the wood, you can successfully paint your already painted shed and give it a new lease on life.
