A well-painted exterior doesn’t just make your home look beautiful—it also protects it from weather, moisture, and wear. But how often should you repaint your home’s exterior to maintain that fresh look and long-term durability? Here’s everything you need to know.
How often should you repaint the exterior of a home?
Most homes should be repainted every 5 to 10 years, depending on several factors such as surface type, climate, and paint quality.
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Wood siding: Every 3–7 years (or up to 10 years with high-quality paint)
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Aluminum siding: Every 5–6 years
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Stucco: Every 5–10 years
- Brick: Every 15–20 years (painted brick may require more frequent touch-ups)
Randall’s experts recommend using premium exterior paints and proper surface preparation to maximize paint longevity—especially in Ottawa’s climate, where seasonal temperature swings can cause premature fading or cracking.
What affects how long exterior paint lasts?
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Surface Material: Porous materials like wood absorb more moisture, causing paint to age faster.
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Climate and Sun Exposure: UV rays, humidity, and freeze-thaw cycles all take a toll on paint performance.
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Paint Quality: Investing in high-performance paint and primer ensures better adhesion and color retention.
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Surface Preparation: Cleaning, sanding, and priming are crucial steps that extend the lifespan of any paint job.
- Application Method: Proper coverage and the right number of coats make a noticeable difference in durability.
How can you tell when it’s time to repaint?
Look for these early warning signs that your exterior may need repainting soon:
- Peeling, flaking, or blistering paint
- Fading or chalky surfaces
- Exposed wood or bare patches
- Cracked caulking around trim or joints
- Visible water stains or mildew
If you notice one or more of these, it’s time to refresh your paint before deeper damage occurs.
How can you make your exterior paint last longer?
- Wash your home’s exterior once a year to remove dirt and pollutants.
- Trim back trees or shrubs to prevent constant moisture or abrasion.
- Inspect caulking and seals annually and repair as needed.
- Choose UV-resistant and weather-protective coatings available at Randall’s Paint Collections
- Hire professional painters for optimal preparation and coverage.
Does repainting frequency differ for different colours?
Yes. Darker colours tend to fade faster due to UV exposure, requiring touch-ups more often. Lighter shades reflect more sunlight and typically maintain their vibrancy longer, making them ideal for sunny or exposed areas.
When is the best time to repaint your exterior in Ottawa?
The best time is late spring through early fall when temperatures range between 10°C and 25°C with low humidity. This allows paint to cure properly and ensures long-lasting results.
Should you DIY or hire a professional painter?
While DIY projects can save money, exterior painting requires proper equipment, weather awareness, and experience for safety and quality results. For larger or multi-story homes, hiring a professional is the best choice.
Explore Randall’s range of painting services and expert referrals on our Services Pageor submit a Painter Order Formto get connected with trusted professionals.
Get Expert Advice for Your Next Exterior Project
Not sure what paint or finish is right for your home’s exterior? Visit your nearest Randall’s location or Contact Usfor personalized recommendations and product guidance from our paint experts.
Browse premium exterior paints, stains, and primers today in our Collections
Protect your home, preserve its beauty, and paint with confidence—Randall’s has everything you need for long-lasting exterior results.