It is important to check your home or business regularly and look for signs of a deteriorating paint job. After these checks, it is time to get a new paint job. A paint job that lasts is essential to keeping curb appeal high and your dollars down.
Ways Paint May Deteriorate
There can be numerous reasons that paint can deteriorate as well as obvious signs you should look out for. Be sure to perform a walk around your house or property. Look for paint exhibiting signs of decay and consider getting that new, fresh paint job to get your home market and guest-ready.
Signs of Its Time
Warped Siding is caused by moisture accumulation and sun exposure in an area that cannot be flattened. The best option is to replace it or have the area prepped and painted.
Blistering or bubbling occurs when the paint loses adhesions and begins to pull away from earlier walls. This can be caused by high heat. Applying paint to a hot surface can cause the paint to bubble and not completely adhere to the surface.
Peeling- Peeling is an unsightly result of sun damage, with bubbles and blisters bursting open. Exposed areas only get worse with more sun exposure and continue to peel and blister, breaking down the paint on the surface.
Cracking stucco results in further damage as moisture and water enter the areas, making them crack and become damaged even more.
Another common issue is the process of fading or bleaching. You may not notice it, but your paint job slowly begins to fade with sun exposure. It is happening slowly, so it may be hard to notice. It is important to find paint that is lasting. Also, you can take photos of your initial paint job and compare how the paint job has faded after a few years.
Chalking can seem similar to fading, although it is actually a chemical change caused by ultraviolet rays. The topcoat of the paint changes, forming a film of white dust. If you simply paint over it, it may not completely adhere to the surface and cause issues.
Mildew sets in when moisture doesn’t evaporate, causing it to eat away at the paint. It is unwise to just paint over without removing and prepping the surface; the mildew will eventually come through again if it is just painted over.
When Should You Paint
It depends on several factors. The signs above are indicators you may need a new painting job. Also, consider the amount of exposure to elements of your home, whether that is a hot sunny day or wet with moisture. Regularly checking the exterior home will keep you on top of these issues and reduce the risk of costly repairs. Another thing to consider is the quality of the products you are using. High-quality paint and proper prepping can make a paint job last for years.
Members of the editorial and news staff of the Las Vegas Review-Journal were not involved in the creation of this content.