6 Signs It’s Time to Paint Your Exterior

Paint stands as your home’s first and best defense against the elements. It’s also the first impression your guests and potential buyers receive. But many homeowners may not know when it’s time to paint their home’s exterior. Here are six signs it’s time to hit up your contact list for a painting pro.

How Often Should I Paint My House?

While most experts recommend repainting the outside of your home every 5-10 years, there isn’t a set timeline for every home. That’s because every home is different. The timing varies on things like the location, weather and the quality of the previous paint job. A home on a cold, windy coast, for example, might need to be repainted every two years, while a home in a more temperate climate might get away with waiting a decade.

What Should I Look Out For?

Some signs are obvious, like chipped, peeling or faded paint. But there are some less obvious signs, too. Here are some ways to know if it’s time to repaint.

1) Faded or Discolored Paint

Faded and discolored paint can be more than just a sign your paint is old. It can also indicate below-the-surface issues with your home, or the paint, itself.

While paint fades over time in the sunlight, if your home is fading on the shady side of the house, it may mean a bigger problem. You could have issues with water intrusion or your vapor barrier. If this is the case, you’ll see water stains dripping down the side of the house. Call an expert to isolate and repair the issue before you repaint.

In addition to fading, paint can also discolor in the sun. That farmhouse yellow that was so pretty five years ago may now look like muddy beige. To keep it from happening again, look for UV/fade resistant paint.

2) Cracked, Flaking, Bubbling Paint

If you live in a climate with hot, humid summers or harsh, cold winters, you may have cracked, flaking or bubbling paint. But look deeper because these can also be signs of wet rot, dry rot or mold. Replace any damaged materials before you paint because paint won’t stick to rotted wood.

3) Shrinking, Discolored or Hardened Caulk

If you notice the caulk around your windows and doors shows signs of wear, consider repainting. Many house painters redo caulk as part of the paint job. Since caulk expands and contracts with your house as your home is exposed to a range of temps, it can lose its elasticity over time. If the caulk is shrinking, discolored or hard to the touch, talk to your painting pro about getting it repaired.

4) Your Curb Appeal is Sagging

Is your house looking a little worse for wear, the trim dingy and the paint faded? A coat fresh coat of paint will not only make it look fresh and inviting, but it’ll also increase your home value.

5) Your Home Is New

We know what you’re asking: Why would I paint a new house? That’s because contractors usually spray just one coat of paint over pre-primed wood. They depend on the primer to act as an undercoat and protect your home. But one coat of paint may not be enough to prevent damage long-term. So, if your home is new, expect to repaint within the first five years – that way, you won’t risk long-term damage.

6) Your Paint Hasn’t Yet Chipped or Peeled

You don’t have to wait till paint shows signs of damage to call in a pro. In fact, painting your house before you see chipped paint can prevent damage to your home’s exterior. It also minimizes the need for prep work like scraping, recaulking and replacing wood. All this lowers your paint costs.

Exterior painting is a big job, that often requires special equipment and working on ladders or scaffolding. So, you may want to consider hiring a pro. Learn more about getting your home professionally painted with a free quote from Paintzen today.