How to Paint Wood Soffit Boards
Painting wood soffit boards is a process that must be undertaken to prevent moisture damage and rotting. The boards are installed to connect the siding to the roofing. As long as they are painted properly, you will not need to worry about repairing damage caused by moisture and other external factors.
Tools and Materials
- High Quality Paint and Primer
- Paint Roller
- Paintbrush
- Fungicidal Solution
- Newspapers
- Eye Goggles
- Gloves
- Step Ladder
- Sandpaper
- Paint Stripper
Step 1 – Preparation
When working with surfaces that are above the head, it is important to protect the eyes from falling dirt or debris. Wear protective eye goggles and a protective cap. Before applying the paint onto the wood soffit boards, clean the entire surface first. It may also be necessary to paint the fascia, so clean that area too.
If the soffit boards require repainting, strip the paint off using a good paint stripper solution. If there are any signs of mold or algae growth, apply a fungicidal solution to every affected surface. Before sanding, make sure that any solution applied onto the surfaces dry completely.
Step 2 – Sand the Boards
Use a stepladder to reach the boards. Use a medium grit sandpaper to roughen up the surfaces and remove any dirt or debris. Wipe of the dust off using a clean rag or cloth. Prepare the primer.
Step 3 – Apply a High Quality Primer
Although the boards are located on ceiling and not on top of the roof, it is still best to use a primer that also acts as a water sealer. This allows the wooden boards to last longer. Before applying the primer, place newspapers on the floor or the surfaces directly under the soffit to avoid the paint from being splattered everywhere. This saves on cleaning time after the application.
Cut the primer using a paint roller. To prime hard-to-reach areas, use a paint brush. Be careful not to overstretch the hands when painting. When a certain location is hard to reach, step down from the ladder and transfer it to a more convenient location. Allow the primer to dry completely.
Step 4 – Apply the Undercoats
Sand the primed surfaces to make them rough. Wipe off the dust and apply the first undercoat thinly onto the boards. Use a water-based exterior paint to ensure quick drying time. In addition, choose a color that matches the surrounding colors of the home, such as those on the walls and fascia. After the first undercoat dries, apply a second undercoat.
Step 5 – Apply a Thick Glossy Finish
Sand the undercoat to ensure the finishing coat adheres easily to the surface. Be sure to have enough paint for the last coating. When applying the glossy finish, cut it thickly onto every surface area of the wood soffit boards. Allow the paint to dry completely. It may take 2 to 3 days, depending on the weather conditions during application. Clean up the mess, remove the newspapers and strip the paint from the rollers and paintbrush.
