Painting Tips for Older Homes in Grand Rapids, MI
Grand Rapids is known for its rich architectural history, and nowhere is that more on display than in Heritage Hill — one of the oldest residential neighborhoods in the city and one of the largest historic urban districts in the United States. With more than 1,300 homes built between the 1840s and early 20th century, Heritage Hill showcases a variety of architectural styles.
Owning or caring for an older home in Grand Rapids comes with charm and quirks. Painting these homes requires a thoughtful approach to preserve their beauty while protecting them from Michigan’s harsh and changing seasons. Here’s an in depth guide to painting older homes in Grand Rapids.
1. Inspect and Prepare Surfaces Thoroughly
Older homes often have layers of old paint, cracks, or uneven plaster. Skipping a careful inspection can lead to a paint job that fails quickly.
What to do:
Scrape and sand peeling or flaking paint. Multiple layers may need careful removal to create a stable surface.
Check for rot or water damage around windows, doors, and eaves. Address any structural issues before painting.
Fill cracks and holes in plaster or wood with the appropriate filler. On historic plaster, use lime-based or flexible fillers to prevent cracking.
Clean all surfaces to remove dust, grime, or mildew. Even a small layer of dirt can prevent paint from adhering properly.
2. Be Aware of Lead Paint
Homes built before 1978 may have lead-based paint, especially common in Heritage Hill homes. Lead paint requires caution.
Steps to consider:
Hire a certified professional if lead is suspected. DIY sanding or scraping can release hazardous dust.
Use lead-encapsulating primers if removing paint isn’t an option. These seal in existing layers safely.
Follow local regulations for handling and disposing of lead materials.
3. Choose the Right Primer and Paint
Older homes often have surfaces that modern paint won’t easily stick to. Choosing the right materials ensures adhesion and durability.
Recommendations:
Use high-quality primers that bond to wood, plaster, or older paint layers.
For interior walls, latex paints are flexible and durable, reducing cracking over time.
For trim, doors, and exterior woodwork, satin or semi-gloss finishes protect surfaces and make cleaning easier.
Consider paint formulated for historic homes or areas with high humidity, especially for Grand Rapids’ summers.
4. Pay Attention to Architectural Details
Original trim, molding, and woodwork are what give older homes their character, but they require a careful touch.
How to handle them:
Sand lightly to smooth the surface before painting, being careful not to remove historic detail.
Apply a primer suited for wood or older finishes.
Use thin, even coats of paint to maintain intricate molding patterns.
When possible, restore rather than replace original wood to preserve historical integrity.
5. Consider Michigan Weather
Grand Rapids’ climate can be tough on paint. Temperature swings, humidity, and precipitation all affect results.
Guidelines:
Interior painting: Avoid extreme temperatures and high humidity. Paint cures best in moderate conditions.
Exterior painting: Spring through early fall is ideal. Avoid painting during rainy, humid, or freezing days.
Curing time: Let paint cure fully before exposing it to high traffic, furniture, or moisture.
6. Don’t Hesitate to Hire Professionals
Older homes can be tricky; uneven surfaces, old plaster, hidden layers, and unique architectural details make them challenging for DIY. Hiring a local professional ensures:
Thorough prep and surface repair
Proper paint selection and application techniques
Preservation of historic character
A smooth, durable finish that withstands Michigan weather
Final Thoughts
Painting an older home in Grand Rapids is about more than just color—it’s about preserving history, protecting your investment, and enhancing your home’s charm. Whether your house is in Heritage Hill or another historic neighborhood, following these tips ensures your paint job lasts and complements your home’s unique character.
Older homes come with character, and we’ve had the pleasure of helping Grand Rapids homeowners bring them back to life with expert painting services. Contact Reyes Builders & Painting to get started on your next project!