The dawning of a new year often inspires fresh, new starts and resolutions. Many start to ponder the necessary home improvements to start the year out right. When is it time to paint your home’s exterior?? Some obvious signs of a much needed renovation include cracking chipping, but there are some less obvious indicators.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU PAINT?

There are several factors that can change the timing of your house’s next paint job. These factors include where you live, climate and weather, and the material of your home surface. If your wall is made of stucco, paint will last typically lasts 5-6 years. Painted brick surfaces can last 15-20 years while cement fiberboard siding can go 10-15 years before repainting.

DAMAGE FROM THE ELEMENTS

Where you live can play a big role in how long your paint job lasts. For example, if you live in a climate with bright  hot summers and your home isn’t guarded by trees or shade, the direct sunlight may cause the paint to fade. sun damage can also cause blistering (paint bubbles), as well as a something called chalking, which is when the surface of the paint becomes powdery and faded Or if you live in an environment with harsh winters and wet storms, these can also cause your paint job to age more quickly.

EXTERIOR HOUSE MAINTENANCE

To decipher whether your house needs new paint, observe your house regularly to watch for signs of wear and tear. Specific things to watch for are dampness, rot, chalkiness, insect or rodent infestation, and mold. Spotting these immediately will help your paint last longer . On top of that, regularly washing off dirt and moss off the surface of your home prevents the paint from breaking down .