Keep Your Home’s Paint Looking New For Longer With This Troubleshooting Guide
Maintaining your home’s exterior paint not only enhances curb appeal but also protects your home from the elements. However, without proper care and application, paint can develop several issues over time. The good news is that many of these exterior paint problems are avoidable with the right techniques and products. Below, we cover the most common exterior paint problems, how to prevent them, and why you should contact R&D Painting for professional help.
Blistering
Blistering occurs when small bubbles form beneath the paint surface, causing it to lift and peel. This is often the result of moisture being trapped under the paint or applying paint in extreme heat, where it dries too quickly on the outside.
Causes:
- Painting on damp surfaces
- High humidity or direct sunlight during application
Prevention:
- Make sure the surface is completely clean and dry before painting. Any moisture, even dew or rain, can cause the paint to blister.
- Avoid painting in high heat or direct sunlight. Choose mild, dry days for painting.
- Use a high-quality primer that seals the surface properly.
Blistering can lead to peeling, which compromises the look and longevity of your home’s exterior. If you’ve experienced blistering, R&D Painting can help assess and fix the damage to ensure a smooth, long-lasting finish.
Peeling and Cracking
Peeling and cracking are usually a sign that the paint isn’t adhering properly to the surface. Over time, this can lead to significant damage, as it exposes the material underneath to moisture, leading to wood rot or rust on metal surfaces.
Causes:
- Inadequate surface preparation
- Use of low-quality paint
- Extreme weather conditions over time
Prevention:
- Thoroughly clean and prepare the surface by scraping off old paint, sanding rough spots, and applying primer.
- Always use high-quality, exterior-grade paint that is formulated to withstand weather conditions.
- Regular maintenance of the exterior can help prevent cracking and peeling.
If you notice peeling or cracking, it’s important to address the issue quickly before it worsens. R&D Painting specializes in exterior repair and painting, ensuring your home is protected and looks its best.
Fading
Fading occurs when paint loses its color vibrancy, often due to prolonged exposure to the sun’s UV rays. While all paint fades over time, some colors and paint types are more prone to fading than others, especially darker shades.
Causes:
- Prolonged exposure to sunlight
- Low-quality paint with poor UV resistance
Prevention:
- Use high-quality, UV-resistant paint, which is designed to hold its color even under intense sunlight.
- Opt for lighter paint colors, which are less prone to fading.
- Regularly inspect and maintain the exterior by applying fresh coats of paint when necessary.
Fading diminishes the overall appearance of your home, but with the right paint and care, this can be delayed. If your paint is fading, contact R&D Painting for a consultation on how to restore your home’s vibrant color.
Mildew and Mold Growth
Mildew and mold can form as black or green spots on the painted surface, particularly in areas that are shaded and remain damp for long periods. This not only looks unsightly but can also damage the paint and underlying materials.
Causes:
- Moisture buildup in shaded areas
- Lack of mildew-resistant paint
Prevention:
- Clean the surface with a bleach solution to kill existing mildew or mold before repainting.
- Use mildew-resistant paint, especially in areas prone to moisture.
- Improve ventilation around the house, and trim back trees or shrubs to allow more sunlight to reach damp areas.
Mildew and mold are more than just cosmetic problems, and early intervention is key. R&D Painting uses specialized products to treat and prevent mold and mildew, protecting both the appearance and structure of your home.
Chalking
Chalking is when a fine, powdery residue forms on the paint’s surface. This is often caused by the breakdown of the paint’s binder due to exposure to UV rays, causing the paint to degrade over time.
Causes:
- Use of low-quality paint
- Excessive UV exposure
Prevention:
- Choose high-quality paint with strong UV resistance.
- Regularly clean the exterior surface to remove any buildup and prevent further chalking.
While chalking is a natural part of paint aging, it can accelerate if poor-quality paint is used. R&D Painting can help you choose the best products to prevent chalking and keep your home looking fresh.
Wrinkling
Wrinkling occurs when paint develops a textured, rough appearance, often due to improper application techniques, such as applying thick coats of paint or painting in cold or damp conditions.
Causes:
- Painting in low temperatures or high humidity
- Applying paint too thickly
Prevention:
- Apply thin, even coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry fully before adding another layer.
- Paint in moderate temperatures, ideally between 50°F and 85°F, and avoid high humidity.
If you notice wrinkling in your exterior paint, it’s best to have it corrected as soon as possible. R&D Painting’s professional team can ensure a smooth, durable finish on every job.
Protect Your Home’s Exterior with R&D Painting
By addressing these common exterior paint problems early and using the right techniques and materials, you can protect your home and keep it looking beautiful for years. If you’ve noticed any of these issues on your home’s exterior, or if you want to avoid them altogether, it’s time to bring in the experts.
Contact R&D Painting today for a free estimate! Whether it’s a minor touch-up or a full exterior repaint, our skilled team will ensure your home is protected, beautiful, and long-lasting Call (919) 669-6459 today or visit our contact page to schedule your consultation.