Your home’s curb appeal is important in making a positive first impression. Chipped paint on siding and trim can detract from its appearance. But it’s not just about aesthetics - deteriorating paint allows moisture to seep into the siding and causes mold and mildew to grow.
A deteriorating paint job also provides an opportunity for termites and other pests to invade your home. Keeping your exterior updated with fresh paint keeps your home looking it’s best while protecting it from harsh weather and pests.
How Often Should You Repaint?
Exterior paint can last for several years when high-quality paint is used and applied by a professional painter. A good paint job will last between 7-10 years while cheaper paints may only last 3-5 years.
Sunlight and moisture both speed the deterioration of exterior paint. People who live in harsher climates can expect to repaint more often than those who live in milder climates. Repainting your home every 5-7 years is recommended in climates with intense sunlight or high moisture.
Here are some signs it’s time to repaint your home:
1. Fading
A common problem that many homeowners notice is fading paint. Direct sunlight, harsh weather, and extreme temperature changes all contribute to fading paint. Not surprisingly, lower-quality paints don’t hold up to harsh UV rays and will fade more quickly. Annual touch-ups and choosing high-quality paint help keep exteriors vibrant longer.
2. Peeling
Sun, rain, and snow all take a toll on exterior paint. When exterior paint begins to peel, that means the surface beneath it is no longer protected from moisture, insects, and pests. Peeling paint is often the result of poor adhesion during the application process or the result of a wet, humid environment. It’s important to correct peeling paint quickly to prevent structural damage.
3. Flaking, Bubbling, or Cracking
Any change in the appearance of your exterior paint is a signal of problems developing. Flaking, cracking, or bubbling paint is often the result of poor weatherproofing. It can also be caused by harsh weather conditions. If your paint is flaking, bubbling, or cracking, it’s important to repaint in order to prevent damage to the structure of your home.
4. Chalking
If you run your hand along the exterior of your home and a white powdery substance coats your hand, you likely have what is referred to as chalking. Over time, the binder that holds paint together deteriorates, causing it to chalk up. Depending on the type of paint and environmental factors, chalking can sometimes begin to occur within 3-5 years after an exterior paint application.
5. Moisture and Mold
If regular washing doesn’t keep your home free of mold and mildew, it may be a sign of deteriorating paint. As paint ages, it loses its ability to protect your home from moisture which leads to mildew and mold growth. Mold and mildew aren’t just ugly - they can break down the structural integrity of your home’s wood surfaces, so it’s important to address moisture issues quickly.
6. Visible Damage
Paint helps protect your home’s exterior but harsh weather conditions are especially damaging to wood and stucco siding. Paint seals off exposed areas that are prone to damage from termites and other wood-eating pests. If you see cracks in your stucco or rotting wood, it’s time to repair and repaint.
7. Outdated Color Scheme
You may have purchased a home that has an unattractive or outdated color scheme. Maybe you’ve lived in your home for a long time and are just ready for a new look. An updated color scheme can enhance curb appeal and increase the value of your home. Exterior hues impact your entire neighborhood so take time to choose a color scheme that complements both your home’s architectural style and the surroundings.
8. You’re Ready to Sell
One of the best ways to boost curb appeal and value when you’re ready to sell is with a fresh coat of paint. If your home’s paint is weathered or faded, potential homebuyers may assume there is something wrong with the siding, even when that’s not the case. It's important to use paint colors that increase the value of your home and attract more potential buyers.
When It’s Time to Repaint Your Home, Contact the Experts
It may look easy, but in reality, it takes preparation, skill, and experience to achieve a professional, long-lasting exterior finish. Unless you have the tools, training, safety equipment, and time to handle an exterior painting project on your own, hiring a professional painting crew will likely save both time and money.
When it’s time to repaint your home, call Adam Roe Painting to discuss your needs. Our team of painting professionals has tackled projects large and small, and we’re ready to help transform your home with a fresh coat of paint.
In business since 1985, Adam Roe Painting provides the highest quality results and best customer service in the industry. We offer custom color matching, a residential exterior warranty of 5 years, and a one-year warranty on commercial and industrial projects. We look forward to working with you.
