Need To Paint Your Multi Story Home? How To Make It Safer For You
If you need to paint the exterior of your multi-story home and have decided to do it yourself, you need to take time to learn a few things before you get started. This is because painting the upper level can be dangerous if you don't know what you are doing. Follow the tips below so you can have a newly painted house without injuring yourself.
Using an Extension Ladder
If you plan to use a ladder, an extension ladder is best to use. The first part of an extension ladder is called the base, which is the part that sits on the ground. The second part of this ladder is a movable piece that you can extend much higher.
When using an extension ladder, set it at an angle against your house. You do not want the ladder too steep, as it could fall over backwards. If there is too large an angle, the ladder could slip. The instructions that come with your ladder should tell you the right angle to sit it.
Purchase a cleat to place behind the feet of the ladder on the ground. This is a piece of wood that has spurs so you can poke it in the ground to keep it secure. You need to also purchase a ladder stabilizer that is placed at the top of the ladder. This makes the ladder even more stable. Follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to install the stabilizer.
Carrying the Can of Paint
It will be difficult to hold paint cans as you climb up the ladder. To take care of this problem, purchase a paint can holder. These holders connect to the rungs on the ladder, and they have a hook on the end that you hang the paint can on. How this works depends on the type of paint can holder you purchase. Make sure you follow the instructions on how to add it to your ladder. If you do not want to purchase one, you can make a paint can holder yourself to save money. Using this accessory also prevents you from sloshing paint on the side of your home.
If you have a home that is irregularly shaped, such as with dormers, this will make the job much more difficult and time-consuming for you. You may want to hire a professional house painter, such as AAA Action Painting, to ensure your paint job is done correctly.