4 Signs Your Home Needs a New Coat of Paint

Paint isn’t just an aesthetic aspect – it serves a protective purpose, as well. And when its appearance starts to fade, something more serious could be occurring. Wood, particularly, is more susceptible to rot, mold, and mildew, and if you’re not attentive enough, these could already be forming, exacerbating the damage in the process and resulting in more expensive repairs down the road.

So, before you deal with structural issues, look out for the following signs:

Fading

It’s an obvious choice. Paint tends to fade in areas that receive the most sun, usually the south and west sides. In these and other spots, chalking may accompany fading. Aren’t sure? Check with a wet rag; if there’s chalking, a white film will come off.

As well, fading indicates moisture may already have entered any wood boards. Look for signs of warping just to be sure. In any case, a fresh coat helps keep out the elements.

Peeling

Places receiving the most moisture start to peel, so check your window sills and the trim at the bottom of the garage and door. In these spots, because it’s easy for water to get through, check if the paint’s coming off in large areas or if it’s chipping.

Layers that peel away indicate poor adhesion. For the last paint job, the surface likely wasn’t prepared properly; often, the paint already had bubbles and blisters. However, layers may also indicate moisture has entered or that low-quality paint had previously been used.

Cracking Paint and Caulking

These two issues go hand in hand, so check the areas where you’re most likely to spot them: door and window frames and the siding. If the caulking’s already gone, water may have already gone through the cracks, creating dry rot in the process.

How can you tell? As a general rule, dry rot comes from the inside out; however, while you can’t see it directly, the wood starts to appear strange. If the shape and size seem off, dry rot may already be present. And even if it isn’t, mold and mildew may still be forming.

In all instances, be sure to take care of the damage first, and then apply a fresh coat of paint and re-caulk all seams.

Color Changes

While fading lightens the paint, other factors further alter the appearance. Check your home’s inside and exterior for water streaks, white shades that look gray, and deep colors that have turned light. In all instances, the elements have started to wear down the paint, so strengthening the area is a must.

No matter the reason, always make sure the paint job is complete and comprehensive. For your project, work with M. Brett Painting to prepare the area with power washing and then adding a coat to the exterior. If you’re in New England, contact our Connecticut location to learn more.