1. Take a Close Look at the Full Damage

Before you do anything else, walk your entire deck and take a good honest look at what you’re dealing with. Is the peeling limited to one or two spots, or is it happening across most of the surface? Are there areas where the wood looks soft or spongy? Do you see bubbling, cracking, or mildew? Understanding the full scope of the damage helps you figure out whether this is a simple refresh or a bigger repair job. Don’t skip this step – catching rot or structural issues early can save you a lot of money down the road.

2. Identify What Caused the Peeling

Peeling and fading don’t just happen on their own – there’s always a reason. The two most common culprits are moisture and the wrong product being applied. When water gets trapped beneath the surface, it weakens the bond between the wood and the finish, causing it to bubble and peel. And when it comes to product choice, painting a deck or using a water-based stain in Minnesota is never a good idea. Both are film-building products, meaning they sit on top of the wood rather than penetrating it, and Minnesota’s freeze-thaw cycles will break that bond and cause peeling – it’s not a matter of if, but when. Poor prep work from the last application is also a common culprit. If the surface wasn’t properly cleaned or sanded before the product went on, it was never going to last. Knowing the cause helps you avoid repeating the same mistake after the fix.

3. Strip Away All the Old Peeling Material

This is the most important step in the entire process, and it’s the one most people want to rush. You cannot apply a new finish over a surface that’s already failing – it will peel again in no time. Use a paint scraper or sander to remove all loose, flaking, and peeling material down to bare wood. Work methodically across every board. Take your time here. A thorough strip job is the single biggest factor in how long your new finish will last.

4. Clean the Deck Thoroughly

Once all the old material is stripped away, start with a good thorough pressure wash to blast out dirt, mildew, mold, and grime that have worked their way into the wood. While the wood is still moist, apply a deck restoration product containing oxalic acid. Let it dwell on the surface for 10 to 15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Avoid applying it in the midday heat or direct hot sun – if it dries on the surface before you rinse it, you won’t get the full brightening effect, and it can leave residue behind. Once rinsed, let the wood dry completely before moving on. In Minnesota’s humid summers, that can take a day or two. Applying any finish over damp wood is one of the fastest ways to end up right back where you started.

5. Make Any Necessary Repairs to the Wood

Now that the deck is clean and dry, take another close look before you reach for the stain. This is your best opportunity to address any underlying wood issues. Check for boards that are warped, cracked, or soft from rot and replace them if needed. Reset any nails or screws that have popped up above the surface. Skipping repairs at this stage means finishing over problems that will only get worse with time. A solid finish on top of damaged wood is just cosmetics – it won’t hold up and it won’t protect what’s underneath.

6. Apply the Right Product – And This Part Really Matters

With a clean, repaired, and fully dry surface, you’re ready to refinish. If you’ve been using deck paint or a water-based stain in the past, this is the step where you make the switch that actually solves the problem. A quality semi-transparent oil stain is the right choice for Minnesota decks. Unlike paint or water-based stains – which are film-building products that sit on top of the wood – oil stain penetrates into the wood fiber, moves with it through seasonal expansion and contraction, and doesn’t peel. It also lets the natural grain show through while still providing real protection. Apply it in thin, even coats according to the manufacturer’s instructions, letting each coat absorb fully before adding the next. Note: if you’ve previously used a paint or water-based stain, make sure all of it is fully stripped before applying oil stain – the two don’t play well together.

7. Set a Maintenance Schedule Going Forward

The best way to avoid going through this whole process again is to stay ahead of it with regular maintenance. Sweep your deck often to keep dirt, leaves, and debris from trapping moisture against the surface. Clean it thoroughly at least twice a year – once in the spring and once in the fall. Inspect it regularly for early signs of wear like thin spots or dull areas and address them before they become bigger problems. With a quality semi-transparent oil stain, plan to re-apply every two to three years depending on sun exposure and foot traffic. A little consistent care goes a very long way in extending the life of your deck finish.

Ready to Restore Your Deck? Edina Painting Is Here to Help.

Peeling and fading decks are one of the most common calls Edina Painting gets from Twin Cities homeowners – and for good reason. Minnesota’s climate is tough on exterior finishes, and getting both the prep work and the product choice right makes all the difference. Edina Painting has been serving Edina and the entire Minneapolis-Saint Paul metro area since 1985, specializing in prep-heavy, long-lasting finishes built to stand up to Minnesota winters and summers alike. Whether your deck needs a full restoration or a fresh application of oil stain before the season starts, our team will handle every detail from strip to finish. Contact Edina Painting today for a free quote and get your outdoor space looking its best again.

The post 7 Steps to Take After Your Deck Starts to Peel or Fade appeared first on Edina Painting.

Repainting your home may seem daunting and expensive, but it can have several benefits. It can improve the overall value of your home and increase its chance of selling quickly.

Making a Good First Impression

They say first impressions are everything, which couldn’t be more true when selling your home. The exterior of your house is the first thing potential buyers will see, so it’s essential to make a good impression. Repainting your home’s exterior with a fresh coat of paint can instantly boost its curb appeal and catch the attention of potential buyers. This is especially important if your current exterior paint is faded or peeling, as it can give off the impression that the home needs to be well-maintained.

Creating an Updated Look

When trying to sell, the interior of your home is just as important as the exterior. Outdated colors and finishes can make a space feel dull and uninviting. By repainting your home’s interior, you can create a fresh, updated look that appeals to potential buyers. Consider using neutral colors to allow potential buyers to envision their style in the space.

Increasing Value

Repainting your home is also an investment in its value. A freshly painted home can instantly appear modern and well-maintained, increasing its value. This means you can list your home at a higher price point, leading to a potentially more significant return on your investment.

Fixing Imperfections

Over time, homes can develop imperfections such as chips or cracks in the paint. These small issues may seem minor, but they can make a home feel run down and neglected. By repainting your home, you can fix these imperfections and create a more polished appearance that will appeal to buyers.

Appealing to a Wider Range of Buyers

When selling your home, you want to appeal to as many potential buyers as possible. This means creating a space that appeals to various tastes and preferences. By choosing updated colors and finishes for your home, you can attract a larger pool of potential buyers looking for a modern or move-in-ready property.

Repainting your home when preparing to sell may seem unnecessary, but the benefits far outweigh the cost. Not only can it improve the overall look of your home, but it can also increase its value and appeal to a broader range of buyers. So, if you plan on selling your home, consider repainting as an investment in its success on the market.  Remember to choose colors and finishes that will appeal to potential buyers and create a fresh, updated look that will make a lasting impression.

The post The Benefits of Repainting Your Home When Preparing to Sell appeared first on Edina Painting.

Increase the Value of Your Property

Painting the exterior of your home is a great way to increase the value of your property. A fresh coat of paint can completely transform the appearance of your home and make it look newer and more attractive. This can be particularly important if you plan to sell your home shortly. By painting your home’s exterior, you can make it more appealing to potential buyers and increase its resale value.

Protect your Home from Damages

Painting your home’s exterior can also protect it from damage. The paint acts as a barrier between your home’s exterior and the elements, such as rain, wind, and UV rays from the sun. Without this protection, your home’s exterior can become damaged, leading to rot, mold, and mildew issues. By painting your home’s exterior, you can help to prevent these issues and keep your home’s exterior looking great for years to come.

Improve Energy Efficiency

Believe it or not, painting your home’s exterior can also impact its energy efficiency. By choosing a light color for your home’s exterior, you can reflect sunlight away from your home, reducing the amount of heat absorbed. This can help to keep your home cooler in the summer and reduce your cooling costs. Conversely, choosing a dark color for your home’s exterior can absorb more heat, making it harder to keep your home cool.

Increase Curb Appeal

Painting your home’s exterior is also a great way to increase curb appeal. A fresh coat of paint can make your home look brighter and more inviting and help create a cohesive look with the rest of your property. By choosing the right colors and finishes, you can create a look that complements the style of your home and adds to its overall aesthetic.

Cost-Effective Investment

Finally, painting your home’s exterior can be a cost-effective investment. While it may seem like a significant expense upfront, the long-term benefits can far outweigh the initial cost. By protecting your home from damage and increasing its value, a fresh coat of paint can give you a great return on investment.

If you have an old home, painting its exterior can benefit you. Not only can it increase the value of your property and protect it from damage, but it can also boost its energy efficiency and curb appeal. Choosing high-quality paints and finishes and working with a professional painter can create a look you will love for years. So, if you are considering painting your old home’s exterior, don’t hesitate to plunge!

The post Why You Should Consider Painting Your Home’s Exterior appeared first on Edina Painting.

A freshly painted room looks bright and lively, making a home feel new. But experiencing paint bubbles during the painting process or after can quickly ruin this wonderful experience. Paint bubbling, also known as paint blisters, can occur for various reasons. These bubbles can lead to cracking, peeling, and other unsightly effects if left unattended.

Here is everything you need to know about paint bubbling and provide tips on how to prevent paint bubbling on your walls.

Reduce moisture before painting.

One major cause of paint bubbles is moisture or dampness on the walls. The paint will not settle correctly in a damp environment, and this can cause bubbles to form. To prevent this:
-Make sure the walls are dry before painting.
-Check the weather forecast to ensure dry weather and use fans to circulate air.
-If you notice excessively damp areas, use a dehumidifier to dry them out.

Proper surface preparation

Paint bubbles can also be caused by poor surface preparation. Before painting, ensure the walls are clean, dry, and free of any substances interfering with a proper bond. This includes peeling paint, dirt, and debris. You can achieve this by washing walls with mild soapy water and a sponge. Allow the walls to dry thoroughly, then gently sand with fine-grit sandpaper to create an ideal surface for bonding.

Use high-quality paint

Some paint brands need to be improved and are prone to paint bubbling. It is essential to choose high-quality paint. High-quality paint guarantees excellent adhesion, durability, and resistance to weather conditions, including moisture. Cheap paints do not adhere correctly, leading to paint bubbles. Spend a bit extra on high-quality paint, and you will avoid future problems.

Apply paint correctly

One of the reasons paint bubbles occur is due to an incorrect painting technique. When applied too thick, paint can develop air pockets, leading to paint bubbles. A thinner coat of paint is better when painting, and it is best to mix the paint adequately before application. Do not shake the paint; stir it slowly to avoid introducing air bubbles that can cause blisters.

Allow enough time for each coat of paint to dry.

Another common reason for paint bubbles is painting overcoats without enough time to dry. When you paint over a still-drying coat, you can trap the solvents, leading to air bubbles. Therefore, allowing enough time for each coat to dry is essential before adding another layer of paint. Consult the paint manufacturer’s instructions for drying times between coats.

Preventing paint bubbles is all about proper preparation and technique. Before painting, ensure the walls are clean, dry, and free from any imperfections that could cause bubbles. Then, use high-quality paint, apply it correctly, and give each coat of paint enough time to dry before applying another. Following these tips will avoid paint bubbling and enjoy a smooth, beautiful finish for years.

The post Tips for Preventing Paint Bubbling on Your Walls appeared first on Edina Painting.

Light Blue
Light blue is an excellent choice for a bathroom because it creates a calming, serene atmosphere perfect for moments of self-care. Light blue also works well with white and light-colored accents, creating a crisp, fresh look ideal for a bathroom oasis. So if you’re looking for a calming hue to help you unwind in your bathroom, light blue is excellent.

Soft Gray
Soft grays are very popular for bathroom interiors and for good reasons. Gray is an excellent color for creating a modern, elegant look that is perfect for a contemporary bathroom. Whether your bathroom space is traditional or modern, you can always go right with a soft gray hue. Gray, like a blank canvas, can also be dressed up with accessories, making it more versatile, modern, and stylish.

Pale Pink
If you’re going for a feminine touch in your bathroom, pale pink is a great color. The soft, delicate hue creates a relaxing, romantic, chic, sweet atmosphere. When combined with white ceramic tiles and sleek black or gold fixtures, pale pink can create an Instagram-worthy inspired bathroom fit for a queen. However, be careful not to overdo it; your wedding-day pink might soon become Pepto Bismuth pink in excess.

Soft Greens
If you love nature and want to bring that indoors, then soft greens are perfect for your bathroom. Green is a calming, grounding hue that pairs well with other earthy tones like natural wood or neutral colors. Soft green is perfect for a bathroom atmosphere that feels fresh and tranquil and is an excellent choice for those who enjoy their showers to be the ultimate stress busters. With a touch of green, you can easily create an oasis in your bathroom and bring the outdoors in.

Classic White
White is the classic bathroom color choice that gives a fresh, clean, and timeless look. It’s always in style and works well with features like bright bold-colored towels or beautiful patterns to create a modern feel. White can also make your space more substantial, airy, and modern. However, just white can also be stark and uninviting, so it is essential to balance it with other contrasting elements in the space.

Bathroom paint color can say a lot about a person’s personality and style. So, whether you’re opting for a calming, serene atmosphere or something more exciting and adventurous, the hue of your bathroom should reflect your style while being the perfect escape for you after a long day. Using some of the top color choices– light blue, soft gray, pale pink, soft greens, and classic white- gives your bathroom space a facelift and makes it more inviting and relaxing. So, step out of that plain box and add a pop of color to make your bathroom a spa-like oasis in your home.

The post Best Paint Colors for a Bathroom: Top Picks to Elevate Your Space in 2023 appeared first on Edina Painting.

The color of your home’s exterior may seem purely aesthetic, but it can play a significant role in your home’s energy efficiency. The color of your home can affect how much heat is absorbed or reflected by your walls and roof, which can significantly impact your energy bills. If you’re interested in maximizing your home’s efficiency, here’s what you need to know about the impact of your home’s exterior color on energy.

Dark Colors Absorb More Heat

One crucial factor is that dark colors absorb more heat than light colors. So if you live in a sunny area, a dark-colored home exterior may cause your home to absorb a lot of excess heat, resulting in higher cooling bills during the summer months. On the other hand, if you live in a colder region where you need to maximize heat absorption during the winter, a dark-colored exterior may be a good idea to help keep your home warm.

Reflective Colors Help Reflect Sunlight

Another important consideration is the reflective properties of your chosen exterior color. Lighter colors tend to be more reflective, which can help bounce sunlight away from your home and keep it more relaxed. This can be particularly helpful in areas with direct sun exposure, such as the southern United States. In addition, choosing a reflective color like white, beige, or light gray can help reduce the heat absorbed by your home, reducing the need for air conditioning and keeping your cooling bills down.

Paint Quality Matters

In addition to choosing the right color, it’s essential to make sure you’re using high-quality paint that can help maximize your home’s energy efficiency. Look for paints explicitly formulated with energy efficiency in mind, typically featuring reflective coatings that help keep your home cool. In addition, these paints often come with added benefits like mold and mildew resistance, making them a wise investment for homeowners prioritizing energy efficiency and aesthetics.

Windows Play a Role too

In addition to the color of your home’s exterior, it’s essential to consider the energy efficiency of your windows as well. If you have old, drafty windows or poorly insulated ones, you may lose a lot of heat during the colder months or let in too much hot air during the summer. Upgrading your windows to energy-efficient models can help minimize this loss, protecting your home’s energy efficiency and helping you save money on your bills.

Contact a Professional

Consulting with a professional is always a good idea when optimizing your home’s energy efficiency. An energy auditor or a contractor with experience in green building and energy-efficient materials can help you identify areas where you can improve your home’s energy efficiency, including the color of your exterior. They can also help you find suitable materials and finishes to help your home look its best while minimizing energy consumption.

Overall, the color of your home’s exterior can significantly affect your home’s overall energy efficiency. Choosing the right color based on your region’s climate and comfort preferences is the first step to making your home more efficient. In addition to picking the right color, it’s essential to consider the quality of the paint, the insulation of your windows, and any other factors that may impact your home’s ability to retain heat and keep it cool. With careful consideration and planning, you can make your home beautiful and efficient, saving money on energy bills and reducing environmental impact.

The post The Impact of Your Home’s Exterior Color on Energy Efficiency appeared first on Edina Painting.

 Sometimes, all your home needs is a little facelift. Painting your walls can make them look brand new and instantly upgrade any room. But painting can be overwhelming and expensive. Here are three small paint projects that will significantly impact the look of your home without breaking the bank. 

Painting Accent Walls 

Accent walls are a great way to add depth and vibrance to any room without redoing the entire space. Pick one wall in each room as an accent wall, and then use color or texture to make it stand out from the rest of the walls in the room. Choose a color that complements the other colors in the room, or use wallpaper instead of paint if you want something more eye-catching. Either way, you’ll create an interesting focal point that draws attention to that wall and gives your home a new look. 

Paint Doors and Trim 

Doors and trim often need more attention, but they can make a huge difference in a room’s appearance. So instead of replacing them, try painting them with a bright color or neutral shade to give them new life. You can also choose colors that coordinate with each other — like white trim with black doors — for added contrast and visual interest. Just be sure to use high-quality paint (like oil-based), so it holds up well over time!  

Paint Furniture 

If you’re looking for an easy way to update old furniture pieces, consider giving them some fresh paint! This is especially great for wood furniture since it will bring out its natural grain pattern while protecting it from scratches and other wear and tear over time. Plus, you can easily switch up the colors whenever you feel like re-changing things! Just make sure to properly prepare the surface before applying any paint, so it looks its best when finished.  

Painting is one of the most affordable ways to spruce up your home without major renovations or remodeling projects. Instead, you can do many small projects or hire someone else to do them that will instantly transform your space without costing too much money. Whether you paint accent walls, doors, trim, furniture pieces, or all three, you will notice an improvement in both look and atmosphere within your home! So why not take advantage of this cost-effective opportunity today? With just a few cans of paint (and maybe some wallpaper), you could enjoy your beautiful new space tomorrow!

The post 3 Small Paint Projects for a Facelift in Your Home  appeared first on Edina Painting.

The outside of your home is the first thing visitors see, and its paint color can have a significant impact not just on your home’s curb appeal but also on its interior temperature. Choosing the right exterior paint colors can help regulate temperatures during extreme weather conditions and make it easier to maintain comfortable temperatures in the summer and winter. Let’s look at how different colors absorb or reflect heat and what that means for our homes. 

Light Colors Reflect Heat Better Than Dark Colors 

The color of your home’s exterior paint dramatically affects how much heat it absorbs or reflects. Generally speaking, lighter colors reflect more sunlight than darker ones, which helps keep your home cooler in hot climates. This is because lighter colors absorb less radiation from the sun, so they don’t get as hot when exposed to direct sunlight. Likewise, dark colors absorb more of the sun’s rays and retain more heat, making them better suited for colder climates where extra insulation is needed. 

Insulation Is Key 

Of course, choosing an appropriate exterior paint color isn’t enough; you also need to make sure that your house has proper insulation in place to help keep it cool during the summer months and warm during the winter months. Insulated walls and roofs are essential for keeping temperatures stable throughout the year. In addition, good quality insulation will help trap air between the interior and exterior walls of your home, ensuring that heat stays out during the summer months and warmth stays in during the winter months regardless of what color your house is painted. 

Consider Your Climate 

When choosing an exterior paint color for your home, consider your local climate first and foremost. For example, if you live in a hot climate such as Arizona or Nevada, opt for lighter colors such as white or beige to help reduce the absorption of solar radiation from the sun. On the other hand, if you live in a cold climate like Alaska or Minnesota, darker colors such as navy blue or dark gray will be better at helping keep warmth inside during winter.  

Your home’s exterior paint color may seem like a minor detail compared to other aspects of home design—but it can significantly impact how well you’re able to regulate temperatures inside your house throughout the year. Lighter colors are best suited for hotter climates, while darker colors are better at providing extra insulation in colder climates. Whichever color you choose, be sure to invest in good quality insulation, too, so that your house remains comfortable all year round!

The post How Exterior Paint Color Can Help Regulate Your Home’s Temperature  appeared first on Edina Painting.

The days are shorter, and the weather is colder, but you can immediately start in spring for a home paint makeover! Here are five  tips and tricks for giving your home a fresh look for winter. We will also provide some recommendations for paints and finishes that will help you stay warm and cozy all season long!

Use Warm White Paint Colors

When picking paint colors, it is essential to consider how the color will look in your home during different times of the day. For example, if you live in an area with cold winters, using a warmer white paint color on the walls can help reflect some of the heat from your furnace into your house. Conversely, a cool or bright white color may look great in the store, but it can make your home feel noticeably colder when the weather outside is cold.

Consider Using a Deep Base Line Color

Consider using a deep baseline color on all the trim work for interior walls painted with white or neutral colors. This will make the small look more distinguished and attractive and help keep the interior of your home warmer during the winter months.

Choose Darker Paint Colors for Rooms That Are Close to or Underground

If you have a basement area in your home, use darker paint colors on the walls to help keep the space warmer. This is especially important if you have a partially or fully underground basement, as this will make the room feel even colder than usual.

Use Special Finishes for High Traffic Areas

For rooms in your home with lots of people walking around and furniture being moved regularly, choose a unique paint finish with a higher percentage of concrete. This will help withstand wear and tear better than other paint types, and it can also make your rooms look more attractive without requiring much additional maintenance.

Use an Enamel Finish on Doors, Windows, Hardware, and Other Metal Surfaces

Consider using an enamel paint finish if you have metal surfaces in your home that take a lot of abuse. An enamel finish will help protect the metal from rust damage and other forms of wear, making it last longer and look better for years to come. This will also make cleaning your windows and hardware easier throughout the winter months.

With these simple tips and tricks, you can give your home a fresh look for winter and stay comfortable throughout the cold season. If you need help choosing paint colors or finishes for your home, consult an experienced professional painter in your area who can provide recommendations tailored to your needs.

The post Winter Home Paint Makeover: Tips and Tricks appeared first on Edina Painting.

Protects Against the Elements

One of the most significant benefits of garage floor coatings is that they help to protect your garage floor from stains and dirt. Many garage floors are made of concrete, which is a porous material that can easily become stained with oil, grease, chemicals, and other debris. Garage floor coatings act as a barrier between your garage floor and these substances, preventing them from penetrating the surface and leaving unsightly marks.

Prevents Damage from Cars and Storage

Another major benefit of garage floor coatings is that they help to prevent damage caused by heavy items being dragged or dropped on the garage floor. Garage floors are often subjected to tires, furniture, boxes, and other large objects that can cause scrapes, scratches, and other damage over time. Garage floor coatings provide a layer of protection against these types of damages, allowing you to use your garage without worrying about any potential harm to the surface.

Makes the Garage More Attractive

In addition to protecting your garage floor from stains, dirt, and damage, garage floor coatings can also help to make your garage look more attractive. Many garage floor coatings are available in a wide variety of colors, so you can choose one that matches the style of your garage and home. Additionally, garage floor coatings can be applied in a seamless manner to help minimize the appearance of cracks or other surface imperfections.

Overall, garage floor coatings are an excellent way to keep your garage looking clean and new. If you are looking for a way to protect your garage floor from stains, dirt, and damage, be sure to consider investing in garage floor coatings today!

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