Top 5 Signs Your Home Needs a Fresh Coat of Paint

Is your home's paint fading, peeling, or looking tired? Here are the warning signs to watch for.

1. Fading Colors

Paint exposed to direct sunlight fades over time. South-facing walls fade fastest in Seattle's sunny summer months.

What to look for:

• Colors look washed out compared to protected areas
• Significant color difference between walls
• Chalky residue when you touch the surface

Timeline: Exterior paint typically fades after 8-10 years. Interior paint in sunny rooms fades after 5-7 years.

2. Peeling or Cracking Paint

Peeling paint exposes wood or drywall to moisture damage.

What causes it:

• Poor surface preparation during last paint job
• Moisture intrusion (leaks, humidity)
• Low-quality paint breaking down
• Wood expanding and contracting with weather

Action needed: Address moisture source first, then repaint. Ignoring peeling leads to wood rot and expensive repairs.

3. Cracks in Caulk

Caulk around windows, doors, and trim separates over time.

Why it matters:

• Water intrusion damages wood and insulation
• Increases heating/cooling costs
• Allows pests inside

Seattle-specific: High humidity near Lake Washington accelerates caulk breakdown. Check annually.

4. Mold or Mildew Growth

Dark spots on exterior walls, especially north-facing sides.

Common in Seattle:

• Less sun exposure
• Higher moisture from rain
• Trees creating shade and trapping moisture

Solution: Pressure wash before repainting. Use mildew-resistant exterior paint.

5. You're Planning to Sell

Fresh paint is the highest ROI home improvement.

Return on investment:

• Interior painting: 107% ROI average
• Exterior painting: 55% ROI average
• Makes home show better
• Buyers pay premium for move-in ready

Timing: Paint 2-3 months before listing. Gives time for paint to cure and any touch-ups needed.

When to Repaint?

Interior:

• Living spaces: Every 5-7 years
• Kitchens/bathrooms: Every 3-4 years (higher moisture)
• Bedrooms: Every 7-10 years
• High-traffic areas: Every 3-5 years

Exterior:

• Wood siding: Every 7-10 years
• Fiber cement: Every 10-15 years
• Stucco: Every 5-6 years
• Trim and doors: Every 4-6 years