Can't remember the last time you painted your house? Well, it might be time for a paint job.
How often should you paint your house is a question asked by homeowners all over the country. Location, siding material, quality of paint used, are all factors that we can use to answer this question.
To make it easier, we've compiled some tell-tale signs that don't lie. Chances are if any of these are going on at your house, it's time to repaint.
Peeling
Peeling paint is perhaps the most obvious sign that it is time to repaint your house.
Peeling occurs when moisture has crept in between the paint and the siding. Once your paint peels away from your siding, it leaves the siding exposed. Wind, rain, sun, and snow will quickly deteriorate exposed siding.
Peeling will not get better over time so take this as the ultimate sign that it is time to paint your house.
Bubbling or Cracking
If you see spider cracks or bubbles in your paint, this again can be a sign of moisture penetrating your home's exterior paint job. These can also be indicative of mold buildup under the paint.
Either way, these signs will lead to peeling, so don't wait to repaint.
Dried out or Cracked Caulking
Caulk is designed to seal the small gaps around doors, windows, and where boards adjoin at perpendicular angles. This sealant is elastic and will contract and expand with your home as the changes in temperate cause it to do so.
If your caulking is cracked or dried out, it loses its elasticity and creates a spot for water to seep in.
Water can do a ton of damage to your home, so it's time to re-caulk and repaint as soon as you notice this.
Out of Date Colors
If you are tired of looking at the same old color, go ahead and paint your house!
Choosing colors that are in style and match the rest of the neighborhood will boost the property value.
Mildew and Mold
Mold and mildew are usually found in dark and damp areas of the house that receive little sunlight and air circulation. If you notice mold in these areas, it is important not to wait to remove it. Mold can create a health issue if left untreated.
Mold can creep through and slowly deteriorate your siding, which will lead to a much bigger repair job than simply repainting. However, the mold must be treated before repainting, as it will continue to grow even under a fresh coat of paint.
Check under your soffits too, as they are usually sheltered from sunlight.
So...How Often Should You Paint Your House?
If you're still wondering how often should you paint your house, that really depends. If you live by the coast and are exposed to salt air and UV rays, then it may be more frequently than you'd like.
If your home has wooden siding, then it's very important to have a good coat of paint. The paint will protect your siding from the elements, and with regular maintenance last a long time.
If you are seeing any of the signs above, it's probably time to repaint.
Check out some of our other blog posts for maintenance tips, and ways to improve your home's curb appeal.
