Taking proper care of your home is one of the most important things you can do to maintain its value. More specifically, a maintained paint job makes your house look inviting and put together. Whether you have friends, family or prospective buyers coming by, you want them to be drawn from the outside in. Quality paint also protects your home’s exterior against the elements. Repainting your exterior is a great way to make a big impact on updating your home without the expensive additions.
There are many things you should be looking for that will tell you if it’s time for a new paint job. Make sure to check the siding and trim. Damage may be worse on different sides of your house, depending on which has the most exposure to weather.
Pay Attention to These Signs
Your exterior paint has a strong impact on your home’s appearance. Much like your skin protects you from a multitude of harmful elements, paint protects the exterior of your home from the harsh rays of the sun, excess moisture, and other weather-related damage. In the worst-case scenario, if your exterior paint is way past its prime– it can cause problems for your home’s structure. So how do you know when it’s time to paint your house? Keep reading to find out!
1. Paint Shows Signs of Wear & Tear
Peeling, bubbling, and cracking paint are all signs that the paint has finally succumbed to the elements. These signs could also mean you’re dealing with dry rot or mold. If you see gaps between the boards of your home’s exterior siding, it could be a sign of dry rot (meaning moisture has infiltrated the wood–yikes!). The same goes if the boards look as if they are shrinking. These signs shouldn’t be ignored, as they can lead to much bigger problems (and MUCH bigger expenses) down the road.
2. Fading Paint Color
Fading paint can make a house look worn and tired. It’s time for a new coat of paint when the vibrant color has turned to a lighter, more dull shade. Keep in mind, dark paint colors will fade quicker than lighter shades. Take this into consideration when you choose the colors to repaint your exterior.
3. Going on the Market
One of the most common methods to increase the value and appeal of a house for sale is by giving the exterior a fresh new coat of paint. Curb appeal is so important when you want to sell your home because first impressions only happen once. Potential buyers will make immediate opinions about your house the moment they pull into your driveway. If the paint job is old or was poorly done, they will notice, which may affect their decision to place an offer or not. Fresh paint can make your home look clean, modern, and inviting.
4. Cracked Caulk
If the caulking on the exterior of your house is cracking or showing signs of brittleness, it has lost its elasticity. This is not a good sign and means it’s definitely time for a new exterior paint job.
5. Time Has Passed
You don’t have to wait to see signs of paint failure before you apply a coat of paint. Just like you would replace your roof before it starts to cave in, repainting before you have huge issues will save you time and lots of money. Proper maintenance will keep your house in shape for years.
It is recommended that exteriors be painted every 5 to 10 years. This time frame depends on how well your house was painted the last time, the quality of the paint that was used, the quality of the prep work that was done, and the initial surface of your exterior. Of course, the professional painting comes with a cost, so hire a company that does it right the first time.
Wood surfaces need to be painted every 3 to 7 years.
Aluminum siding needs to be painted every 5 years.
Stucco should be repainted every 5 to 6 years.
6. Signs of Water Damage
Weak paint coverage leaves your wood siding vulnerable to water damage. Look for deep cracks along the wood grain and for soft spots which can also signal rot. Ignoring water damage can lead to other issues as well, such as mold growth.
If your home’s exterior has black or gray spots, chances are you have mildew or algae, which is caused by excessive moisture or poor circulation. Another sign that you need a new exterior paint job.
7. Time For a Change
Is your spouse ooo-ing and awe-ing at the neighbor’s houses? Sending you Zillow listings when you are not in a place to buy a new home? Chances are they are just tired of seeing the same dull colors every day and need to spice things up! Painting the exterior of your home a brand new color can make quite an impact on its overall appearance and feel. It can change the mood and look without having to make any expensive construction changes. It can also make it feel newer and who doesn’t like new things?
Call Us, Your Local Sacramento Painting Professionals
If you’re seeing any of the above signs, call Brown’s Family Painting at 916-234-6842 to schedule a free painting quote. We use high-quality paint along with expert prepping and painting techniques to ensure you get long-lasting results. We can advise you on your next steps, color, and maintenance to keep your home looking brand new for years to come.