Best Time to Paint Your House Exterior

Generally speaking, the best time to paint a house exterior will depend on your area’s weather and overall climate.

For example, it’s ideal to paint in the late spring or early fall in milder and hotter climates to avoid the chance of extreme heat. When the paint is exposed to high temperatures, it will cause the water in the paint to evaporate at a much quicker rate. This results in faster drying times and inconsistent film formation. This can lead to the paint appearing patchy in areas where it has dried too quickly. High temperatures can also reduce the durability and adhesion of the paint film. In colder places, it’s better to paint in the summertime to avoid temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, as the paint will not cure properly.

Learn more about the factors that impact the best time of year to paint a house exterior:

• Factors that impact when to paint house exterior.
• How long does exterior paint last?
• FAQs about the best time to paint a house exterior.
• Why choose Five Star Painting to paint your home exterior?

Factors That Impact When to Paint House Exterior

The best time to paint your house exterior will depend on several factors. It’s important to know how each can affect your home’s final appearance.

Some of those factors include the following:

• Temperature: Paint sticks to surfaces better in temps between 50- and 90 degrees Fahrenheit (this is the perfect range for the paint to fully cure and dry). It’s also vital not to paint during periods of light rain or excessive humidity to prevent the paint from flaking and cracking.
• Weather conditions: The best conditions to paint under are mild temps, low humidity, and no rain. This is because extreme heat or cold can result in paint drying too fast or too slowly, which can lead to uneven surfaces.
• Exterior condition: How your home’s exterior looks can influence the overall aesthetic of the applied paint. Before painting our team of professionals will prep the exterior of your home by removing any dirt and debris, including patching and repairing any surface as needed.
• Paint used: Some paint types have varying drying and curing times. The quality and type of paint applied can impact the look of your exterior paint job. Five Star Painting uses only high-quality, long-lasting paint from Benjamin Moore, Behr, and Sherwin Williams.
• Direct sunlight: Direct sunlight can cause paint to dry too fast and with uneven lines. If possible, it’s better to leave the painting for when the sun isn’t beaming right on your home.

In a nutshell, the best season to paint a house exterior is late spring or early fall in areas with mild climates, anytime other than summer or rainy seasons in areas that are hot, and the summertime in regions with cold winters.

How Long Does Exterior Paint Last?

Usually, high-quality exterior paint can last for five to 10 years. A paint’s lifespan is also contingent on the following:

• Proper surface prep, including cleaning and priming the area before painting.
• Paint quality, which can impact its durability.
• Weather conditions at the time the paint is applied.
• Climate, especially in areas with extreme temperatures.
• Frequent maintenance to fix imperfections.

Exterior Painting FAQs

Years of experience, professional expertise, attention to detail, and a decades-long commitment to providing exceptional customer service are the things that set Five Star Painting apart from the competition. Each independently owned Five Star Painting location operates by the highest standards, which includes using only high-quality products to ensure the interior and exterior of your business look their best. Our commitment to your satisfaction also includes applying our industry knowledge and years of experience to answer your questions. Here are answers to the most frequently asked questions about exterior painting services.

Is winter the best time to paint a house exterior?

It depends! While summer is often the go-to season for exterior painting, winter can actually be a good choice depending on your location and climate. Lower humidity and more consistent temperatures (that don’t fall below 50℉) in winter can be ideal for paint drying and curing, leading to a longer-lasting finish. Plus, you might find painters have more availability during the off-season. Ultimately, the best way to know if winter is the right time to paint your house is to consult with a professional painting company like Five Star Painting.

What type of paint should I use on the exterior of my home?

First, think about what your siding is made of – wood, stucco, or vinyl – as that will influence your choice. For wood siding, a great option is to use an alkyd/oil hybrid primer followed by a 100% acrylic latex topcoat. This combination provides excellent adhesion and durability. If you have any metal railings, an oil enamel paint with a rust-inhibiting primer is your best bet for long-lasting protection. It's worth noting that oil-based paints have been phased out in some areas due to environmental concerns, so check local regulations before you buy.

What’s the best exterior color to paint my home?

Take cues from the colors of surrounding homes. You want your house to stand out but also blend harmoniously with the neighborhood aesthetic. The style of your home, roof material, and landscape can also guide your exterior color choices. For example, a Victorian home might look best with a bolder color palette, while a modern farmhouse might pair well with more neutral tones. A satin or eggshell finish is often a good choice for exterior house painting, offering a balance of durability, washability, and a pleasing appearance that many homeowners and HOAs find appealing.

Do I need to pressure wash my house before painting?

At Five Star Painting, we often recommend pressure washing before exterior painting, but it ultimately depends on the condition of your home. If your siding is covered in dirt, grime, or organic growth, pressure washing helps create a clean surface for the new paint to adhere to properly. Our experienced exterior home painters can assess your home's needs and recommend the best approach. We can also handle the power washing for you, so it's done correctly to avoid any damage to your siding.

What are the signs that my house needs to be repainted?

It might be time for a fresh coat of paint if you notice any of these signs: peeling, cracking, or blistering paint; fading or chalking; wood rot; organic growth; or water damage. Of course, you might also simply be tired of the current color! If you're unsure whether your home needs repainting, contact your local Five Star Painting. Our painting professionals can assess your exterior and provide personalized advice on how to best revitalize your home's appearance and protect it from the elements.

Why Choose Five Star Painting to Paint Your Home Exterior

Painting the exterior of your home is an important decision. Choosing the right pros to do it is even more important. Our painting professionals go the extra mile to ensure your paint project is done right and back it up with the Neighborly Done Right Promise ^™. To learn more about our exterior painting services, book a free estimate online or call us to transform your home into something special!