Careful repaint of a century home in Ajax
Exterior repaint of a two-storey century home with historic trim and tight access; durability and careful prep were the priority.
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1. Detailed inspection and testing
We started with a hands-on survey and solvent tests to determine whether older layers were oil (alkyd) or latex. Moisture readings were taken around sills and corner boards. That dictated primer choice and whether to remove old paint or feather and encapsulate.
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2. Controlled paint removal and carpentry
Where paint was loose or rot had settled in, we carefully removed failed material with scrapers, heat-assist only where safe, and hand-sanded edges. Small rot patches were cut out and fitted with clear vertical-grain pine or Azek trim pieces, glued, fastened with stainless-steel trim nails and sealed with marine-grade caulking.
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3. Surface prep and priming
We cleaned the siding with low-pressure wash and TSP substitute to remove chalk and mildew, then allowed full drying in Ajax’s dry windows. On bare wood we applied a high-adhesion oil-modified primer; on intact latex we used an acrylic bonding primer to maintain adhesion across substrates.
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4. Paint system and application
For topcoats we used a 100% acrylic, high-build exterior finish designed for Canadian climates — breathable enough for old wood but tough against UV and salt carried on the east winds. We sprayed the body and cut in by brush on trim and detailed mouldings to get clean lines and full coverage in crevices.
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5. Access, safety and neighbour considerations
Our crew set compact scaffolding and a small boom to reach the second storey; we flagged the driveway and worked off hoarding boards to protect the lawn. We scheduled noisy tasks mid-day and emailed the neighbours in Ajax and nearby Pickering to keep everyone informed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will a full exterior repaint like this take?
Typical timelines vary with size and the amount of carpentry needed. For a two-storey century house expect multiple weeks: inspection and prep, carpentry and drying windows, then priming and two coats of topcoat. Weather in the America/Toronto timezone matters — we avoid work in heavy rain or during freeze conditions.
How disruptive is the work to homeowners and neighbours?
We plan to minimise disruption. Compact scaffolding, weekend-free noisy work, and email updates keep people informed. Expect some parking adjustments and short periods when doors need to stay closed during paint application.
When should a century home be repainted rather than patched?
If you see multiple areas of peeling, widespread chalking, or water staining at sills and eaves, a coordinated repaint is wiser. Small spot repairs are fine short-term, but a full system ensures compatible primers and topcoats so new paint bonds correctly to old substrates.
Do you need permits or have code considerations?
Most residential repaints don’t need a building permit, but any structural carpentry or changes to eaves may. We keep the work within local Durham Region and Ajax requirements and coordinate with nearby trades in Pickering or Whitby when additional repairs are needed.
Ready to protect your Ajax home the right way?
Email us the address and a few photos. We’ll reply with a clear scope and materials plan.
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