When to Repaint Your House Exterior: A Homeowner’s Guide

Thinking about exterior house painting? Wondering when to repaint your house exterior? You’re not alone. This is one of the most common questions homeowners ask — and for good reason. Your home’s paint doesn’t just make it look good; it also protects it from the elements. Knowing when to repaint can save you money, headaches, and major repairs down the road.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how often you should repaint your home’s exterior, what signs to look out for, and whether it’s time to call a pro or tackle the job yourself.

• Most homes need exterior paint every 5–10 years, depending on material and climate.
• Wood siding may need repainting more often than vinyl or stucco.
• Look for signs like peeling, fading, and cracking.
• Harsh climates can shorten paint lifespan.
• Professional painters deliver long-lasting results but cost more than DIY.

Different materials wear paint differently. Here’s a breakdown of how long you can expect paint to last on common home exteriors:

• Wood Siding: Every 3–7 years (or stained every 4 years)
• Aluminum Siding: Every 5–10 years
• Stucco: Every 5–6 years
• Cement Fiberboard: Every 10–15 years
• Brick (painted): Every 15–20 years
• Vinyl Siding: Typically 10 years, but depends on the quality of paint used

If your home uses a mix of materials, always go by the shortest lifespan. It’s better to be proactive than wait too long.

Your region’s weather impacts how long your exterior paint lasts.

• Harsh Sun: UV rays cause paint to fade, dry out, and break down faster. This results in chalky residue and dull colors, especially on south-facing walls. Homes in desert areas or at high elevations — like Arizona, Nevada, and Colorado — are particularly vulnerable and may need more frequent touch-ups or repaints.
• Rain and Humidity: Persistent moisture from rain or humidity can lead to paint bubbling, peeling, or developing mold and mildew. Regions like the South, Southeast, and Pacific Northwest often experience high humidity levels that shorten paint lifespan. Extra attention to sealing and waterproof paint can help mitigate these effects.
• Cold Winters: Repeated freeze-thaw cycles during cold winters cause the surface underneath the paint to expand and contract. This can lead to cracking, flaking, and compromised paint adhesion. Homes in northern climates should be monitored closely for these effects, especially older homes without modern weatherproofing.

If you live in an area with extreme weather, you may need to repaint more frequently than the average homeowner.

Even if you don’t know when your house was last painted, these signs can tell you it’s time:

• Peeling or Cracking: This is one of the most obvious signs your exterior paint is failing. As the protective layer wears away, the underlying structure—wood, stucco, or siding—is exposed to moisture, pests, and other damaging elements. If left untreated, this can lead to expensive structural repairs.
• Fading: Over time, sun exposure causes paint to lose its vibrancy. Faded paint not only dulls your home’s curb appeal but also signals that the paint’s protective properties are wearing thin. Bright, rich color turning pale or chalky is a clear indicator that a repaint is due.
• Chalking: If you run your hand along the painted surface and pick up a white, powdery residue, that’s chalking. It means the paint is deteriorating due to sun exposure. While it’s common with older paint, it indicates your exterior may no longer be protected and needs fresh coating.
• Blistering or Bubbling: These bubbles or blisters under the paint film occur when moisture gets trapped between the surface and the paint. It’s often caused by painting in high humidity or applying paint to a damp surface. Once this happens, the paint won’t adhere properly and will eventually peel away.
• Mold or Mildew: Often appearing as dark spots or green patches, mold and mildew love damp, shaded areas. They’re not only unsightly but also a health hazard. Their presence often means the paint’s protective seal has broken down, allowing moisture to seep into the surface underneath.

So, you’ve decided it’s time to repaint — now what? Let’s walk through your next steps, deciding whether to go DIY or hire a pro.

• Lower cost
• More control over timing and materials
• Sense of accomplishment

• Labor-intensive and time-consuming
• Requires ladders, tools, and safety gear
• Risk of poor prep leading to short-lived results

• Expertise in prep and application
• Access to high-quality tools and paint
• Faster turnaround and cleaner finish

• Higher cost (often $3,000–$10,000+ depending on size and location)
• Need to vet painters carefully

If your home has multiple stories, tough access points, or extensive peeling, hiring a pro is usually the safer and smarter bet.

Repainting your home’s exterior isn’t just about curb appeal — it’s essential maintenance. By knowing when to repaint your house exterior, understanding how different materials and climates affect paint longevity, and spotting the early warning signs, you can keep your home protected and beautiful for years to come.

Need help deciding whether it’s time for a fresh coat of paint? Contact Lagunas Painting at 208-943-2873 for expert advice and a free estimate. Our pros will help you protect your investment — and make your home shine.