Taking care of the outside of your house is just as important as taking care of the inside. It’s not just about aesthetics. Paint can act as a barrier between your house and the elements. You will want to maintain that barrier, especially if you live in harsh weather conditions like rain, sleet, snow or heat. How do you know when your home is due for a repaint? There are some very clear signs that your home exterior needs to be repainted and then there are some not-so-obvious signs. Here are our top 7 ways to tell if your home needs a repaint.
Clear Signs Your Home Needs a Repaint
Let's start with the clear signs your exterior needs to be repainted.
- Visible cracks, flaking and bubbling.
This is when you need to take action because the longer you wait, the more issues can arise. These are signs that your paint is wearing down and will need attention immediately.
- Dirty patches that don't come off.
If you’ve tried scrubbing and power-washing and the dirt just won’t come off, then it’s time to get professional painters to your home for a new coat of paint.
- Water damage.
Look for deep cracks along wood grain and also soft spots which can be a sign of rot. Black or gray spots from excessive moisture is something to be taken seriously and should be addressed immediately. Try to do multiple checks a year for water damage, before and after the rain season, to get ahead of what could be a very expensive repair.
- Fading color.
Natural elements can be harsh on an exterior. Excessive heat can cause excessive fading along with rain, snow and wind. Not only will a fresh coat of paint change the overall mood of your home, it can make an older house feel new again.
Not-So-Obvious Signs Your Home Needs a Repaint
- It's been 5-10 years since it was last painted.
It can be hard to remember when you last repainted the exterior of your house, but if you have to guess, it just might be time to repaint. You definitely don't want to put it off until you see visible signs of damage. It's just part of maintaining your house.
- Poor materials and poor quality of work were used when it was painted last.
These factors play a big role in how long your exterior paint will last. Did previous contractors skimp on the prep work, use low quality paint, or was the application not professional? You know, the old saying..."you get what you pay for!"
- You are planning on selling your home.
Repainting your home should be at the top of the list if you plan to make a good first impression with buyers, especially if the color is dated. A fresh coat of paint can make a world of difference in curb appeal as buyers first lay their eyes on what could be their next home.
If you are thinking it’s time to repaint your home this is the perfect time of year to do it, before the season changes and the weather starts to get harsh again. If you notice any visible signs of damage or wear, do not put off a repaint until the last minute as it could be even more costly. Now is the time to contact a professional painting contractor to protect and extend the longevity of your home.
At Bruno Painting, we take great pride in the work we do for homeowners and are excited to help you with the process of maintaining the exterior of your home. Reach out to schedule your exterior painting estimate!
