Repainting the outside of your home can be expensive and time-consuming. Maybe you have already gone through the trouble of choosing colors, hiring a painter, or doing the job yourself. After all the work, the last thing you want is for the paint to start cracking or fading quickly. If you don’t take care of your exterior paint job properly, that’s exactly what might happen.
You don’t have to be a pro to make your paint job last longer. You just need to take the right steps before, during, and after the painting is done. If you want to keep your home looking fresh without having to repaint every few years, the following five tips can help.
1. Start With the Right Exterior House Paint
One of the biggest things you can do to make your paint job last is choosing the right kind of paint in the first place. Not all paints are the same, especially when it comes to using them outdoors. You need exterior house paint that’s made to stand up to sun, wind, rain, and temperature changes.
Look for paint that says it’s resistant to mold, mildew, and UV rays. These features help your paint stay strong and hold color longer. Also, don’t skip on quality. High-quality paint may cost more upfront, but it often covers better and lasts years longer than cheap brands.
2. Clean the Surface Before You Paint
If you paint over dirt, dust, or mildew, it’s going to cause problems. The paint won’t stick well, and it might peel sooner than expected. That’s why it’s so important to clean the surface before you start. You can use a garden hose and a scrub brush for small jobs, or a pressure washer if the house is large or very dirty.
Make sure the walls dry fully before you start painting. If you trap moisture under the paint, it can lead to bubbling and peeling down the road. Taking this extra time now will help your paint hold up for years.
3. Fix Any Damage Right Away
Cracks, gaps, or rotted wood can let in moisture, and that can ruin your paint job fast. Before you paint, inspect the outside of your home closely. Fill in cracks with caulk, repair broken siding, and replace any wood that’s starting to rot.
Even after painting, you should keep an eye out for signs of damage. If you notice any areas where the paint is bubbling or peeling, fix them quickly before the problem spreads. Small repairs now can stop major problems later.
4. Trim Trees and Bushes Near Your House
Plants growing too close to your home can brush up against the paint and wear it down over time. Moisture from leaves can also cause the paint to soften and grow mold.
By trimming trees and bushes away from your walls, you give your paint more breathing room and less stress. This simple step also helps sunlight and air get to the painted surfaces, which keeps everything dry and clean.
5. Keep Gutters and Downspouts in Good Shape
Water is one of the biggest enemies of your exterior paint. If your gutters are clogged or your downspouts aren’t working, rainwater can spill down the sides of your house. That can wear away your paint fast and even lead to wood damage.
Make it a habit to check your gutters every season. Clear out any leaves, fix loose parts, and make sure the water is flowing where it’s supposed to go.
