According to the National Association of Realtors, good curb appeal can increase your home’s selling price by around 7%. Exterior paint plays a huge role in how attractive your house looks from the street. But aside from obvious signs like peeling and cracking, it can sometimes be hard to know if your place needs a new paint job. Here are a few subtle hints that might indicate it’s time for fresh paint.
#1. Chalking
Constant exposure to sunlight and moisture can result in chalking paint. To test for chalking, run your fingers over the top of a painted surface. If you get a chalk-like residue on your hands, it’s a sign your home’s paint has already begun to deteriorate.
Chalking paint is more than a quality issue – it can be a health hazard as well. You may not realize it, but you can actually breathe in tiny paint particles anytime you are near chalking paint.
#2. Bubbling
Extreme temperature changes can cause paint to bubble rather than peel or crack. Bubbling paint can also indicate moisture damage or dry rot. Sometimes bubbling is very noticeable, but other times it may not be so obvious. Accordingly, you should inspect your home on a regular basis, paying careful attention to areas prone to water damage.
#3. Dry, Hardened, or Damaged Caulking
Exterior caulk is usually replaced whenever a home is repainted and can therefore provide you with a good idea as to how your paint is holding up. If your caulking is dry, peeling, cracking, or shrinking, this is a sign your paint is nearing the end of its lifespan, as well. Simply replacing the caulk will provide you with only a temporary fix and will not fully protect exterior walls against mold, mildew, and water damage.
#4. The Color is No Longer Attractive
Sunlight can do more than just fade paint, as it can actually cause it to morph into a different shade altogether. For example, whites can turn yellow or cream, while beige or tan might change into pink.
Even if your paint hasn’t distorted, an outdated hue might artificially date your home. These days, darker colors like ocean blue and slate gray are trending. However, white paint with a touch of violet, blue, or green is popular as well. Look at other houses in your neighborhood and think about whether your home’s exterior stands out. If so, it may be time to upgrade with a new coat of paint.
#5. You Can’t Remember When Your House was Last Painted
Ideally, homes should be repainted every five to ten years. If it’s been longer than that (or you can’t remember when your house was last painted), it’s probably time for an upgrade.
You don’t have to wait for your paint to show obvious signs of wear. In fact, it’s actually easier to repaint when the surface is already in great shape because there’s less sanding and scraping involved. And your new paint is more likely to last longer too.
#6. You’ve Recently Had Other Work Done
Following major home improvements or remodeling, you’ll probably notice your home’s old paint more than ever. As such, you may want to consider new paint after:
- Having new doors or windows installed
- Adding on a deck, patio, or porch
- Replacing worn facia or soffit
- Building a room addition
- Installing new siding
Breathing New Life into Your Old Home
Is it time for an exterior refresh? Here at T&K Contractors, we offer a variety of services to help you regain your curb appeal. If you’re ready to breathe new life into your old home, please contact us today to schedule your consultation.