Your home’s exterior is its first line of defense — and its first impression. But even the best paint job doesn’t last forever. So, how often should you repaint the outside of your home?
The answer depends on your siding material, weather exposure, and the quality of the last job. Let’s break it down so you know when it’s time to repaint and how to extend your exterior’s lifespan.
Quick Answer: Average Repainting Intervals
| Surface Type | Repaint Every |
|---|---|
| Wood Siding | 3–7 years |
| Aluminum Siding | 5–10 years |
| Stucco | 5–7 years |
| Fiber Cement | 10–15 years |
| Painted Brick | 7–20 years |
| Vinyl Siding | 10–15 years |
Most homes need repainting every 5–10 years, but climate and surface conditions can shorten or lengthen that range.
Key Factors That Affect Paint Lifespan
Several things impact how long your exterior paint will last:
1. Climate
- UV rays fade dark colors faster
- Humidity promotes mildew and blistering
- Snow and freeze-thaw cycles cause cracking and peeling
2. Surface Condition
- Peeling, bubbling, or cracked paint shortens lifespan
- Bare wood or unsealed trim deteriorates quickly
3. Quality of Previous Paint Job
- Cheap paints and thin application wear out faster
- Poor surface prep means paint won’t bond properly
4. Color Choice
- Darker colors fade faster, especially on sun-exposed walls
- Light, reflective shades last longer in high-UV areas
Signs It’s Time to Repaint
Not sure if it’s time yet? Look for these signs:
- Fading or patchy color
- Chalking — a powdery residue when you rub the surface
- Cracked or peeling paint
- Bare spots exposing wood or siding
- Mildew or water stains
- Dry, brittle trim or fascia
If you see these, it’s best to act before the damage spreads. Repainting early is cheaper than repairing rotted or warped siding.
Best Practices to Extend Paint Life
Here’s how to get the most from your next paint job:
- Wash your home annually: Removes mold, dirt, and pollutants
- Recaulk joints every 2–3 years: Prevents water intrusion
- Repair siding promptly: Don’t paint over damaged materials
- Use premium paint and primer: Better coverage, longer durability
- Avoid waiting too long: Painting before failure keeps costs lower
How Brackens Painting Maximizes Paint Longevity
At Brackens Painting, we help your paint job last 8–12 years or more with proper care. Here’s how:
- We use climate-adapted paints made for WV and VA weather
- We handle full prep work — washing, scraping, caulking, priming
- We assess your home’s unique conditions before recommending a repaint timeline
- We provide clear maintenance tips to keep your exterior protected year-round
We’ve been painting homes across Martinsburg and the Eastern Panhandle since 2011 — and we know what lasts in our region.
Ready for a Fresh Exterior?
If it’s been 5+ years since your last paint job, or you’re starting to see signs of wear, now’s the time to get ahead of costly repairs.
Call Brackens Painting at (304) 620-5342 or request your free quote. We’ll give your home a free exterior evaluation and honest advice — no pressure, just professional insight.
