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Yes, you can paint over old exterior paint, but success depends on the condition of the existing paint and proper surface preparation. If the previous coating is in good shape (not cracked, peeling, or flaky), you can paint over it with less prep work. However, for the most durable and professional-looking results, follow these key preparation steps:

• Clean the Surface: Thoroughly clean the exterior to remove all dirt, grime, and mildew. A pressure washer can be very effective for this.

• Scrape and Sand: If the old paint is peeling, cracked, or flaky, you must scrape off all loose paint. After scraping, sand the surface to create a smooth, even base for the new paint. Sanding is especially important for wood siding.

• Apply Primer: Using a quality exterior primer is highly recommended. It ensures the new paint adheres properly, improves durability, and provides a uniform finish. If you are painting a lighter color over a dark one, a tinted primer will help cover the old color more effectively.

Some brands offer paint-and-primer-in-one products for convenience. Taking the time to prepare the surface properly will not only increase your home's curb appeal but also help protect your siding and extend its life.

This factor depends on exactly how much paint you remove from your hardwood floors. If it’s just a few small, hardly noticeable spots, refinishing won’t be necessary. However, if you completely strip your floors of paint, you will likely need to sand and finish them. 

With patience, you can often save a dried paintbrush. Soak the bristles overnight and clean the brush as you would any other time. You'll likely have to repeat the cleaning steps, including soaking, more than once.

Yes, a magic eraser can remove candle wax. You can use it to remove all the candle wax from start to finish. Another option is to remove all large clumps with a dull knife and then pull out your magic eraser to finish the job. However, while the results can be impressive, a magic eraser shouldn’t be used on all surfaces since it can potentially damage them. If you try this method, test a small, hidden spot first and proceed cautiously.