Residential Painting: Much More Than Aesthetics
Exterior paint can help make your house a home. We usually choose a color we enjoy that reflects ourselves in some way, but did you know a high-quality paint job goes far beyond being pleasing to the eye? Your exterior paint serves as a protective layer, the first line of defense against the elements. Maintaining that protection should be a priority when it comes to preserving your home’s beauty and structural integrity.
If your exterior paint is showing any of the signs of distress listed below, it’s time to consider applying a fresh coat.
Cracking, Chipping, and Peeling Paint
Over time, moisture and sun exposure can weaken the bond between the paint and the surface beneath it. This typically becomes noticeable when the paint begins to show small cracks and is a sure sign that the paint is failing. Soon your exterior paint will begin to chip and flake off, leaving behind exposed surfaces that will only continue to worsen if not taken care of. The exposed material underneath your exterior paint will be susceptible to rot, mold, and pests.
Faded Color
Fading paint usually occurs on the east and west sides of your home due to the regular exposure to the sun. Paint only starts to fade when it is beginning to fail from sun damage but it also means there is still time to act before the paint begins to peel, exposing the surface underneath. If you can identify noticeable fading, you will know that it is time to repaint.
Wood Rot
Consider paint to be the first line of defense your home has against the elements. Without the protection of the paint, exposed wood and other materials will be susceptible to rot. If you have exposed wood on your home’s exterior, gently press the wood with your hands and if it gives under the pressure, rot has begun to set in. Rotten wood will need to be replaced before you will be able to paint, or else the new paint will fail quickly. Without the protection of paint, construction materials deteriorate rapidly.
Mold and Mildew
Mold and mildew growth are not automatically causation to repaint. But their removal typically requires a thorough cleaning which can wear down your exterior paint much faster than usual. If you have had to undergo mold or mildew removal, those are the spots on your home to keep an eye on for early signs of paint failure.
Your Sonoma County Painting Company
Don’t wait for total paint failure. It will always be more cost effective to maintain your exterior with fresh paint than it would be to replace what lies beneath it. Catching problems early will minimize damage and allow fixes to be performed in less time with less labor. If your home exterior is showing signs of distress, call or contact the experts over at Timmin’s Painting right away! Let us help you keep your home looking beautiful and protected from the elements.