Painting Exterior Columns

Tools:

scaffolding (available for rent at home stores)
caulking gun
caulk
paint scrapers
sandpaper
sanding sponge
paper bag
plastic bag
duct tape
utility brush
paintbrush
leather gloves
dust mask
safety glasses
primer
paint

1. Erect scaffolding so you can reach the top of the pillar and have a solid base to work from (figure A).

2. Start at the top and tackle the project in thirds, moving the scaffolding down the pillar as you go. Put on a dust mask and safety glasses and start scraping away old paint. Tape a paper bag to the pillar to catch much of the paint chips (figure B).

3. Use sanding blocks and sandpaper for a smooth finish. Brush off any debris from surface using a utility brush.

4. Apply a coat of primer and let dry. Store the paintbrush in a sealed plastic bag to stay moist just in case you need to make touch-ups later.

5. After the primer's had about 2-1/2 hours to dry, come back and fill in any gaps with caulk (figure C). Go ahead and apply a second coat of primer, let dry, then finish with a good topcoat. This will ensure your efforts last a long time and you won't have to repeat the process for years.

6. Move down scaffolding and start sequence again (figure D). Repeat process until all columns have a nice new coat of paint.