End of Summer Home Exterior Checklist: Is Your Paint Ready for Fall Weather?
Posted on August 11, 2025
Is Your Home’s Exterior Ready for Fall? Here’s What to Check Before the Seasons Change
As summer winds down across St. Charles, South County, and West County, it’s a smart time to give your home’s exterior a little attention. Our Midwest summers can be hard on paint. Intense sun, high humidity, and surprise storms can all take a toll. With rain and colder temperatures on the way, August is the perfect month to tackle any issues before they become bigger problems.
The team at CertaPro Painters® of St. Charles, South County & West County has put together this end-of-summer checklist to help you decide if your home just needs a few touch-ups or a full repaint before the fall weather rolls in.
1. Inspect for Peeling, Cracking, or Bubbling Paint
In our area, exterior paint can break down quickly under the sun and humidity. If you’re seeing peeling edges, bubbles, or cracked paint along siding, trim, or fascia boards, that’s your home signaling it’s time for help. Left alone, these areas can absorb moisture during fall rains, leading to rot or more serious damage.
2. Check for Faded or Sun-Damaged Areas
South and west facing walls often get the most sunlight in Missouri. If your paint looks dull, washed out, or leaves a powdery residue when you touch it, that’s more than just an aesthetic issue. It’s a sign your paint is no longer doing its job.
3. Examine Caulking Around Windows and Doors
Shifting temperatures and humidity fluctuations cause caulk to shrink and crack. Scan around window frames and doors. If the caulking is brittle or pulling away, it’s time to re-seal. While you’re at it, touch-up painting in those areas can further shield your home from drafts and moisture.
4. Look for Mold, Mildew, or Algae Growth
Our humid Midwest climate, especially in shaded or low-ventilation spots, is perfect for mold and mildew to thrive. This is often seen along gutters, soffits, or shaded siding. If you’re noticing dark patches or green streaks, a good cleaning may help. However, if the problem keeps coming back, your exterior paint may need replacing with a more resistant coating.
5. Check Your Deck, Porch, and Railings
Outdoor structures like decks and railings see constant exposure and foot traffic. Check for signs of peeling stain, weathered boards, or unsealed wood. Re-staining or repainting now will help these areas withstand the moisture and freezing temperatures coming this winter.
6. Evaluate Your Home’s Overall Appearance
Even without visible damage, paint that’s dull or outdated can drag down your curb appeal. If it’s been 5–10 years since your last paint job, a full repaint could give your home a much needed refresh. This helps your home exterior both visually and structurally as we head into the colder months.
Get Help from CertaPro Painters® of St. Charles, South County, and West County
If you’re unsure whether your home needs a simple touch-up or something more extensive, we’re here to help. Our team knows the ins and outs of Missouri weather and how it affects homes in our region. We’ll evaluate your exterior and recommend the right solutions to get your home ready for fall with quality craftsmanship that stands the test of time.
Contact us today to schedule your free exterior consultation and beat the pre-fall painting rush!
