You would be hard pressed to find a homeowner that looks forward to the costs and mess associated with an exterior paint job. While it can seem overwhelming, it’s important to stay on top of how your exterior paint is looking in order to keep your home in good condition and avoid costly repairs. While your paint can seem like it’s doing fine, even the best paints have expiration dates. To keep the protection levels up and colour looking sharp, you will need to inspect your paint every year. Recommendations for how long you can go without needing to paint your home can vary between 5 and 10 years. This difference depends on the type of material of your home, the quality of your preparations, and the paint previously used. However, here’s a guide to give you a general idea:

• Wood, every 3 to 7 years.
• Aluminum siding, every 5 years.
• Stucco, 5 to 6 years.

Your home could need paint before these times are up. Here are a few of the things you should keep an eye out for to note when it is time to hire your local painting professionals.

Wear and Tear

Paint will tell you when it’s time to address it. Physical signs like peeling, bubbling, cracking and other imperfections are the first sign that your paint has lost its protection powers. Openings in the paint can allow moisture to get underneath causing mold and dry rot. These problems will only turn into costly repairs. It’s better to address them as they crop up. 

Fading

Faded paint, while not detrimental to the exterior of your house, is a tired and worn out look. If the colour is no longer vibrant, you should consider repainting. Keep in mind when choosing your colour that dark and vivid colour in sunny climates will wear out more quickly, fading in the sun’s rays.

Cracked Caulk

Gaps occur when wood or trim pulls away from the walls. Typically when it’s around windows and doors, gaps are common. For doors and windows, caulk often shrinks over time, or becomes brittle and breaks away. To repair it, just add some new caulk. When you shop, look for paintable options. You’ll be able to camouflage the repair with a paint touch up after the caulk dries. 

Paint Your Home with CertaPro Painters®

Painting the exterior of a home is a big task, requiring special skills, knowledge and tools. Instead of investing in all of these items yourself, bring in the pros. Our teams is here and ready to start your exterior painting project. Schedule your estimate appointment now by calling our team or filling out our online form to discuss your painting project with us.