A beautiful paint job can dramatically improve the look of your home, but over time, even high-quality finishes can begin to crack, fade, or lose their original vibrancy. Understanding why this happens—and how to prevent it—can help you keep your interior and exterior surfaces looking fresh for years. Here’s what homeowners need to know to protect their paint and preserve its long-term appearance.
Why does paint crack or fade in the first place?
Paint begins to crack or fade due to a combination of environmental conditions, improper surface preparation, and natural aging. Common causes include:
- Sun exposure or UV damage
- Excess moisture or humidity
- Temperature fluctuations
- Applying paint too thickly
- Skipping primer
- Using low-quality paint
- Painting on dirty or glossy surfaces
Proper preparation and product choice will dramatically reduce these issues.
How can you prevent paint from cracking over time?
Cracking typically happens when paint cannot properly adhere to the surface. To prevent it:
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Clean and prep the surface thoroughly before painting
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Repair cracks or holes before applying primer or paint
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Sand glossy surfaces to help paint bond
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Use high-quality primer on bare or uneven surfaces
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Apply thin, even coats instead of one thick layer
- Allow proper drying time between coats
Randall’s carries professional-grade primers and paints designed for maximum durability. Explore them in the Paint Collections
What causes paint to fade?
Fading occurs when pigments break down from exposure to:
- Direct sunlight
- UV rays
- Heat
- Harsh cleaners
- Low-quality or unstable pigments
Exterior surfaces are especially prone to fading without UV-resistant formulas.
How do you keep paint from fading indoors?
Even interior walls can fade, especially in bright rooms. Here’s how to slow the process:
- Choose UV-resistant interior paints
- Use window coverings to reduce sun exposure
- Avoid harsh chemical cleaners
- Select high-quality colourants that maintain vibrancy
Randall’s experts can help you choose fade-resistant paints ideal for bright rooms and large windows.
How do you keep exterior paint from fading?
Exterior surfaces face the toughest conditions. Prevent fading by:
- Using premium exterior paints with built-in UV protection
- Applying paint during ideal weather conditions
- Avoiding very dark colours in full-sun areas
- Washing dirt and debris off siding annually
High-quality exterior paints available at Randall’s are formulated to withstand Ottawa’s unique climate.
Is primer important for preventing cracking and fading?
Yes. Primer is essential for:
- Strengthening adhesion
- Evening out porous surfaces
- Improving paint durability
- Preventing moisture infiltration
- Creating a stable base for colour
Skipping primer is one of the most common causes of early cracking, peeling, and fading.
Can poor-quality paint cause early cracking or fading?
Absolutely. Low-quality paints tend to:
- Break down faster
- Crack under temperature changes
- Fade sooner under UV exposure
- Require more frequent repainting
Investing in premium products upfront saves time and money long-term. Randall’s offers top-tier brands trusted by professionals.
How do you maintain painted surfaces to extend their lifespan?
Regular maintenance helps slow wear and fading:
- Clean surfaces gently with mild soap and water
- Touch up small scuffs early
- Use dehumidifiers in damp rooms
- Repair leaks promptly
- Repaint high-traffic areas more often
Keeping surfaces dry and clean reduces the risk of cracking and discoloration.
Should you hire a professional to prevent future paint problems?
Professionals ensure the paint is applied correctly—from surface prep to final coat—dramatically reducing the chances of cracking, fading, or peeling. If your project involves complex surfaces or exteriors, hiring a pro is often the best long-term investment.
Visit Randall’s Services Pageor submit a Painter Order Formto connect with skilled painters who understand how to protect your paint for years.
Get Expert Guidance for Long-Lasting Paint Finishes
Whether you’re painting a sunlit living room or an exterior exposed to Ottawa’s climate, choosing the right products and preparation methods makes all the difference. Visit your nearest Randall’s location or Contact Usfor expert advice on fade-resistant, crack-resistant paints.
Browse premium paints, primers, and tools in our full Collectionsto ensure your next project stays vibrant and durable long-term.
Long-lasting beauty starts with the right products—trust Randall’s to help you protect your paint for years to come.