What You Need to Know Before Repainting Your Home’s Exterior in Upstate NY

When you live in Upstate New York — in beautiful places like Fairport, Pittsford, Henrietta, and the surrounding areas — you know that the seasons are anything but predictable. Brutally cold winters, rainy springs, hot summers, and colorful, windy falls can all leave their mark on your home’s exterior over time.

If your siding, trim, or stucco is looking weathered or worn, repainting can be a smart investment in both curb appeal and home protection. But before you grab a brush or call in the pros, there are a few important things you should know about repainting your home’s exterior in Upstate NY.

Timing Is Everything

In a region like Rochester Southeast, where weather can shift dramatically from month to month, timing your exterior painting project is key.

Ideally, the best time to repaint is during late spring, summer, or early fall when temperatures are moderate and humidity levels are reasonable. Paint needs time to cure properly, and extreme cold or excessive moisture can interfere with the finish.

We generally recommend aiming for days where:

• Daytime temps are between 50°F and 85°F
• Humidity is moderate (not overly high or low)
• Rain isn’t forecasted within 24–48 hours

Painting at the right time ensures the longest-lasting, most durable finish — one that can better withstand our wild Upstate weather.

Prep Work Makes (or Breaks) the Job

Preparation is the unsung hero of any great paint job. Without it, even the best paint won’t stick properly or perform well over time. In Upstate NY, where winter frost, snowmelt, and summer sun can all damage exterior surfaces, thorough prep is especially important.

Our professional preparation steps typically include:

• Pressure Washing to remove dirt, mildew, and loose paint
• Scraping and Sanding to smooth peeling areas and create a clean surface
• Repairing Damages like rotted wood, cracked stucco, or missing caulking
• Priming bare wood, metal, or patched areas to ensure adhesion

This thorough prep not only helps the paint look better — it also helps it last significantly longer.

Choosing the Right Paint for Upstate NY

Not all exterior paints are created equal, and that’s especially true in a climate as diverse as ours. You need a paint that can flex with the freeze-thaw cycles, stand up to UV rays, and resist mildew from all that springtime rain.

Here’s what we typically recommend:

• 100% Acrylic Paints: These are flexible, breathable, and excellent at resisting cracking and peeling.
• Low-Temp Formulas: Some paints are formulated to cure even when temperatures dip into the 30s — perfect if you’re painting early in spring or late into fall.
• Mildew-Resistant Options: Essential for areas that are shaded or prone to moisture buildup.

At CertaPro Painters® of Rochester Southeast, NY, we only use top-quality paints that are proven to perform in our Upstate conditions.

How to Pick a Color That Lasts and Looks Great

Choosing the right exterior color isn’t just about picking a shade you like — it’s also about making sure it works with the natural light, landscape, and even the style of your home and neighborhood.

When selecting a color, consider:

• How much sunlight your home gets (bright light can wash out colors)
• Architectural style (traditional homes often suit more classic color schemes)
• Neighborhood vibe (while you want to stand out, you don’t want to clash)
• Resale value (neutral, timeless colors tend to appeal to more buyers)

Need help visualizing it? We offer color consultations and have access to digital visualization tools to help you confidently make the best choice for your home.

Why Work with the CertaPro Painters® Team?

Painting your home’s exterior in Fairport, Pittsford, Henrietta, or anywhere nearby is a big decision — one that you want done right the first time.
When you work with CertaPro Painters® of Rochester Southeast, NY, you’re getting a team that:

• Understands the unique challenges of Upstate NY weather
• Provides professional prep and repair work
• Uses only premium paints suitable for local conditions
• Communicates clearly, shows up on time, and treats your home with care

Your home deserves to look its absolute best — and we’re passionate about helping you make that happen.

Ready to Get Started?

If you’re considering repainting your home’s exterior this season, now’s the perfect time to plan your project. Contact CertaPro Painters® of Rochester Southeast, NY to schedule your free, no-obligation estimate today.

Let’s bring new life — and long-lasting protection — to your home!