Your home’s exterior paint is regularly subjected to elements such as sun, rain, wind, and snow, which eventually causes your paint to fade. To prevent premature fading, the best painting contractors spend considerable time preparing the surface before painting using a primer and applying multiple coats of paint. They also use high-quality paint specifically designed for exterior surfaces and adequately.
However, even the most premium paint job done by the best painting contractors fades over time, especially if the paint is located on the exterior of your home. A good exterior paint job usually lasts anywhere between five to seven years before it may need to be touched up or repainted.
To extend the paint job’s life, it’s crucial to monitor your paint’s condition regularly and wash it every two to three years. However, if your paint job is older than five years, it may be time to apply a fresh coat. Here are five ways to tell that it’s time to repaint your home’s exterior.
1. Peeling or Flaking
If your home’s exterior paint is peeling or flaking, it’s a sure sign that it’s time to repaint. Peeling or flaking paint results from moisture and temperature changes that cause the paint to expand and contract over time.
2. Fading
If your home’s exterior paint is beginning to fade or look dull, it’s time to repaint. Fading paint is caused by exposure to the sun’s UV rays, which will eventually cause your paint to break down and turn dull. All paints give way to the sun’s heat and fade over time, but certain kinds of paint can last longer than others. Be sure to consult your painting contractor for the longest-lasting paint products available in your market.
3. Cracking
If your home’s exterior paint is cracking or chipping, it’s time to repaint. This is commonly caused by the paint becoming brittle over time, usually due to extreme temperatures or moisture.
4. Blistering
Blistering occurs when the paint becomes too hot, which causes air bubbles to form beneath the paint. Several factors, including extreme weather conditions, inadequate surface preparation, and poor-quality paint, can cause this.
5. Mold and Mildew
If your home’s exterior paint is covered with mold and mildew, it’s time to repaint. Mold and mildew can form on paint due to moisture and humidity and should be removed, and the area repainted as soon as possible. Before prepping your walls for painting, a good painting contractor may ask for an inspection to look for the source of the moisture. If the source is not removed from your wall, the mold and mildew will return, ruining your fresh coat of paint in no time.
Tips for Finding a Good Painting Contractor
With enough time and practice, anyone can be a good painter, but you should probably not use your home’s exterior for your practice run. Instead, hiring a painting contractor who knows how to do the job correctly the first time is best.
First and foremost, look for a contractor who is licensed and insured. A reputable contractor should have the necessary certifications and insurance coverage to protect the contractor and the homeowner from liability. Additionally, you should ask for references from past clients and check reviews online to ensure the contractor has a good track record.
Before signing a contract with a contractor, ask about their experience, get a detailed proposal, ask about warranties, make sure they are familiar with the paint and materials you are using, and check that they are up-to-date on the latest techniques and safety protocols.
Conclusion
Repainting the exterior of your home is an essential maintenance task that should not be overlooked. Not only will it help to protect your home from the elements, but it will also help to increase the value of your home should you ever decide to resell it. A fresh coat of paint can also make your home look more appealing and give it a pleasant feel. Ultimately, repainting your home’s exterior is an investment in your property that will pay off in the long run.
Alan’s House Painting is the last painting contractor you’ll ever need. We are proud to be Davis’ oldest, most reliable, local and affordable house painting specialists for over 40 years. Contact us today to get a free quote!
