Paint is a great tool to transform the exterior of your home and improve your curb appeal. Since most people do not paint the outside of their homes regularly, these guidelines can help you.
How to Know When Your Home is Ready for New Paint
Every home is different. Certain factors affect the exterior paint and may indicate that it is time for a new coat. In climates with poor weather conditions, the time in between exterior paint jobs is usually smaller. After all, bad weather can take its toll on paint.
The type of home you have also affects your need for paint. If you have wood siding, it is probably smart to repaint every three to seven years, depending on the weather. The paint on aluminum siding usually holds up for about five years. Stucco tends to look good for five to six years before it needs repainting. Some homes have high quality materials like cement fiberboard siding. The paint on this material often lasts between 10 and 15 years. Brick is another a high quality material that holds paint well. Most people repaint brick every 10 to 15 years.
Paint Quality
Better paint jobs are likely to hold up longer. If the previous paint job was high in quality, then you may not need to repaint anytime soon. In most cases, it is a good idea to invest in higher quality exterior paint that offers more durability. It is also a good idea to avoid colors that will fade – especially if you live in a hotter climate. In addition, you should consider a primer that will help your paint last longer. This is especially beneficial in humid climates.
Before painting the house, it is important to prep the exterior. Many people power wash the exterior walls of their home prior to painting. This can help remove dirt and buildup, so that the paint goes on smoothly.
Preserving the Paint Job
While you need to choose the right paint for your home, it is also smart to implement basic maintenance to preserve the paint job. In particular, make sure to regularly inspect the exterior of your home by look for chalkiness, rotting, termites, mold, and other problems. If you see any of these problems, take steps to resolve them quickly.