If you’re starting to notice your home’s paint looking a little dull, chipped, or flaky, you’re probably wondering—is it time to repaint? Great question.
The lifespan of exterior paint depends on a few key things—like the type of siding you have, the quality of the paint used, how well the surface was prepped, and even how the paint was applied in the first place.
But here’s the deal: when paint starts to fail, your home isn’t just losing its curb appeal. It’s also losing protection. Left untreated, peeling paint can lead to expensive moisture damage, mold, or even structural issues down the road.
So, how long should your paint last? And what can you do to get the most life out of your next paint job? Let’s break it down.
Key Factors That Impact Exterior Paint’s Durability
1. Surface Type
While there are no hard-and-fast rules to exactly how long an exterior paint job lasts, there are basic ranges on the amount of time paint generally lasts on different siding materials. Of course, your area’s climate, the quality of the paint job, and how well your current paint was maintained will also contribute to how soon you’ll need to repaint your home. Here are the basic timelines based on your siding type:
- Wood siding – New paint should be applied every 4–7 years. If you are staining rather than painting, it should be done every 4 years.
- Fiber cement siding – James Hardie’s ColorPlus® Technology comes with a durable factory-applied finish that lasts up to 15 years. After that, it will need to be painted. Or, if you opt for Hardie’s pre-primed boards, they will need to be painted upon installation and then approximately every 10–15 years.
- Metal siding – Aluminum siding should be repainted every 5 years.
- Brick siding – New paint should be applied to brick every 10-plus years.
- Stucco siding – This siding material won’t need to be repainted for 7–10 years, but you may want to check to see if the paint needs to be touched up during its lifespan because stucco is unforgiving when its finish becomes compromised.
2. Climate
The greater Memphis area’s weather directly impacts the lifespan of exterior paint. Our high humidity can contribute to fading, premature aging, and unhealthy mold growth on siding material. Windy weather can cause paint to chip. And sunlight makes paint fade and look less vibrant. The sun may also contribute to bubbling and cracking, while more protected and shaded areas remain intact.
3. Primer
The application of a quality primer will extend the lifespan of your exterior paint and save you money on paint too! A primer seals the grain of wood surfaces, allowing paint to hold better. And that’s a big deal because the better your paint adheres to a surface, the lower the possibility it will age hastily, fade, bubble, or crack. Primer can help fill in the pores of siding material to create a smoother surface and yield enhanced paint coverage. And the better the coverage, the less paint you’ll need!
4. Painting Techniques
Professional application of exterior paint makes all the difference in the duration of your paint job. When the paint is applied matters too! If an exterior paint job is done during bad weather or when temperatures are extreme, it can shorten the life of your paint. If you decide to hire a trusted professional (like us!) to paint your home, you can rest assured the job will be done in the right way and deliver the long-lasting results you deserve! A variety of expert techniques are used to paint an exterior, such as:
- Hand painting with a brush or roller
- Taping for sharp lines and to separate color
- Spray painting
5. Paint Quality
A significant factor in getting the longest-lasting paint application possible is choosing top-quality exterior paint. Premium paint protects better, lasts longer, and saves you money in the end.
The quality of paint that is applied directly affects how long the finish will last. When homeowners skimp on paint to save some cash, it costs them in the long run because the paint won’t last! Don’t risk the possibility of only short-term results when you deserve an enduring paint job! Experts agree that water-based, quality, 100% premium acrylic latex paint endures longest and is the best exterior paint choice. Acrylics expand and contract, allowing more flexibility and less chance of cracking. While quality paint is generally a more significant initial investment, it pays to use it for its endurance.
6. Surface Preparations
Understanding how to prepare your exterior’s surface will help maximize your paint’s lifespan. Your home will need a good power washing to get all the dirt and debris off your siding. Next, the surface will be prepared (depending on its makeup) by sanding, caulking gaps, and smoothing its grooves for a clean look.
The Importance of Hiring a Professional Paint Contractor
It Will Save You Time
Professional painters know how to prep your surface ideally and efficiently execute your paint job from start to finish in a timely manner. You won’t be strapped with multiple trips up a ladder, tedious prep work, forgetting something you need for the project at the hardware store, or other time-consuming hassles that come with a DIY paint job.
You Will Enjoy Long-Lasting Results
If you want enduring results, hire a pro painter to do your exterior paint job. They’ll take the meticulous steps needed to ensure you get the gorgeous aesthetic you’ve been dreaming of—and it will last!
You’ll Get a Better Paint Job
Investing in a professional paint job means you’ll get results that look better, last longer, and save you money in the future.
Update Your Home’s Exterior with Fresh Paint Applied with Expert Attention to Detail
Give your home a crisp, new look with long-lasting exterior paint applied by our professional painters. At Bluff City Exteriors, we don’t cut corners. We treat your home like it is our own, so you can expect a precision exterior paint job that will make your property stand out. Learn more about how our exterior painting services can update your house with stunning colors that create eye-catching curb appeal.
