The Pacific Northwest climate is notoriously tough on home exteriors. Between the long, damp winters and the intense summer sun, your paint is constantly tested. Protecting your siding, trim, and structural integrity starts with a healthy paint job.
Here is a simple checklist to determine if your home needs professional exterior painting before the next round of rain arrives:
The Exterior Health Checklist
- 1. Is the Paint Fading or Chalky? If the color has lost its vibrancy or leaves a dusty, chalky residue on your hand, the paint is breaking down. This means it is no longer effectively blocking UV light or moisture.
- 2. Do You See Flaking or Peeling? Peeling is the most obvious sign of failure. It means water has gotten beneath the film of paint, and it’s critical to get the surface scraped, primed, and repainted immediately to prevent the wood or siding underneath from rotting.
- 3. Are Your Caulk Lines Cracked? Caulk seals joints around windows, doors, and trim. If you see cracking or gaps, water is infiltrating your wall cavity, leading to potential structural damage and mold. A good paint job includes fully replacing and re-caulking all gaps.
- 4. Is Moss or Mildew Present? While some cleaning is normal, persistent patches of moss or mildew on your paint indicate high moisture retention. This not only looks bad but suggests the paint is failing to dry properly. A professional team will apply a mildew-resistant primer.
- 5. Has it Been Over 7-10 Years? Even high-quality paint has a lifespan. Depending on the material and sun exposure, most PNW homes need a fresh coat every 7 to 10 years. Proactive painting is far cheaper than reactive repair work.
If you checked off any items on this list, contact Legacy Pro Construction LLC for a free exterior assessment. We use specialized, PNW-formulated paints that are built to last.
