Your home’s exterior painting directly impacts its curb appeal. The paint you choose allows you to show off your design preferences and property. However, weathering elements can take a toll on the exterior and require you to schedule a touch-up. There are some simple signs you can look out for that will help you decide when it’s time to call in the experts.
When Should I Redo My Exterior Painting?
1. Cracks & Flakes
Due to age, normal wear and tear, and exposure to the elements, paint can develop a variety of problems over time. The most common are cracks, flakes, and bubbling on the exterior. Not only do these diminish your home’s aesthetic, but it can also indicate that you have problems with rotting wood or mold.
2. Faded Colors
Fading is much more subtle than cracks or bubbling, but it’s still a valid reason to repaint the exterior of your home. Continual exposure to the sun’s UV rays, rain, and snow reduces the brightness of your home’s paint.
Since fading happens gradually, it’s not always obvious. Compare the current appearance of your home to a picture when it was freshly painted. If the colors have lost their luster, it’s time to have a new coat applied.
3. Problems with Chalking
This is another side effect of weathered paint. Chalking happens before the paint starts to peel or crack, so if you notice it, it’s better to schedule painting services immediately before more serious damage occurs.
Rub your hand over different parts of your home’s exterior, and if there is a fine powder on it, the paint has started chalking and needs to be redone.
4. Damaged Caulking
The caulking around your home’s doors and windows ensures the inside is properly sealed. When small cracks start to appear, they'll raise your utility bills and let moisture seep into the home.
To protect your house, have the caulking replaced and a fresh coat of paint applied to protect the interior from outdoor elements.
5. Dated Paint
Most exterior paints are designed to last between seven to 10 years, but in that time, many other aspects of your home might’ve changed. A new fence, updated shutters, or renovations on exterior doors can clash with the original paint color. Create a unified aesthetic with a fresh coat of paint to maximize your curb appeal.
