Your home’s exterior paint is the first thing people will notice about your home. It is the introduction to you and your family. It is the first impression––the cover of your home’s story! It is essential to keep its appearance in tip-top shape. Proper exterior paint maintenance requires knowledge and care, which is where we come in to help. Our ultimate guide to exterior painting has everything you need to know to tell your home’s story at a first glance. 

Whether you’re sprucing up for curb appeal, increasing property value, or protecting your home from the elements, our ultimate guide to exterior painting has everything you need. Below, you’ll find detailed resources covering when to paint, how much it might cost, the best paints for different surfaces, and tips for selecting the perfect colors for your home’s exterior.

When Should You Paint Your Home Exterior? 

First things first: when, exactly, should you paint your home exterior? Knowing the right time to paint can save you money, time, and effort in the long run. Sometimes, it can be easy to tell your home exterior needs an update. This is the case if your home will have visible signs like peeling or cracking paint, the color fading, or it has sustained weather damage. Other times, it is not so clear on when it is time to call the professionals. If you’ve gone more than 10 years without an exterior update, for example, or you’re looking to upgrade or sell your home are both quiet, but important reasons to paint your home exterior. 

What Is the Average Cost of Exterior House Painting? 

Budgeting for an exterior paint project is another crucial step to the process that often raises a variety of questions. Overall, the price of such a project is going to depend on a lot of different factors. For example, the price will depend on the number of coats needed, any repairs that need to be made, and the square footage of the house. We’ll dive into more detail on each of these factors below.

What are the Best Colors for Exterior Painting? 

Choosing the perfect color scheme for your home’s exterior is one of the more difficult elements to exterior paint jobs. There are a few different ways to find your home’s best color. For some, it takes the perfect blend of neighborhood aesthetics/regulations, your own style, and architectural harmony to find the perfect exterior paint color. 

Others look to current trends to guide their paint color decision. Blue exterior paint colors, for example, have been trending for a few years now. However, every home is different. What looks best on your home will depend on elements such as architectural features and your natural surroundings. You might want to dip into Sherwin-Williams Colors of the Year for 2025 to get other inspiration! We recommend taking a look at current exterior painting trends along with working with a color consultant to find your home’s best exterior paint color. 

What Type of Paint is Best for Exterior Painting? 

Not all paint is made equal, and choosing the right exterior paint for your home is going to depend on its material. Selecting the correct type of paint can ensure durability, weather resistance, and a professional finish. We’ve broken it out by house type.

Vinyl: 

Painting vinyl or aluminum siding is possible, but requires a paint created with flexibility and durability. These paints will be designed to accommodate the expansion and contraction of the siding. 

Brick: 

White brick painting has become increasingly popular in the last couple of years. It is essential to use breathable paints to avoid trapping moisture.

Stucco: 

Stucco is one of the most complex materials to paint. Not only do you need a paint that will adhere to the textured surface, but you’ll also want to avoid paints prone to blistering and peeling. More often than not, painting stucco also involves repairing cracks!

Other FAQs About Exterior Painting

Can painters match my current exterior paint color?

Yes, your local independently owned and operated CertaPro Painters® franchised business can match just about any paint color in your home using a chip of paint or wet sample. Even if you do not remember the original color codes, we can still match the color.

Do I need to be home during an exterior paint project?

No, it is not required that you be home during your painting project. It is up to you if you prefer to be on-premises while the crew is working. It is ideal if someone is there for the start of the project. Your local painting team will work with you to discover your preferred way to get daily project updates.

Can I paint my home exterior myself?

While it’s possible to paint your home’s exterior yourself, hiring professionals ensures high-quality results, proper preparation, and time savings.

Work with the Best Exterior Painters

Now you’re equipped with all the knowledge you’ll need for a successful exterior paint project! All that is left is to call the right team. CertaPro Painters® is here to help with your exterior paint project whether you’re planning to update your curb appeal, sell your home, or just get a new, fresh look.