10 Benefits of Exterior Painting and Staining

Giving your home a fresh coat of paint or stain allows you to decorate your space in whatever shade brings you the most joy. But that’s not the only perk— these materials also have plenty of practical benefits, from preventing pesky insects to protecting the structural integrity of your house. Read on to learn of all the ways painting and staining your home can add big advantages.

1. Prevents Termites

Using termite-proof paint and an oil-based stain is an excellent way to ward off these pests. The paints are infused with chemicals that repel termites, and the oil stain soaks into the wood, making it unappealing to the bugs. For added protection, apply a layer of borate-based wood preservative before painting and staining, and make sure to get regular home inspections for termites.

2. Protects Against Harsh Winters

Untreated wood is vulnerable during extreme weather like rain, hail, and snow, but a layer of protective stain will keep out the moisture from winter conditions. You might need to sand or remove an old finish before you start staining. We also recommend applying the stain in thin coats with a paint roller and using a paintbrush for corners and smaller areas. 

3. Protects Against the Sun, Too

Winter snow isn’t the only weather condition that will impact wood. UV rays from the sun can age your wood over time and cause it to fade from its original luster. Many stains have added pigments to protect against these harmful UV rays, and some also include a sealant to offer extra protection.

4. Improves Curb Appeal

The cost to paint your home exterior can be a valuable investment, particularly from a resale perspective. Hiring a local painting professional to apply a fresh coat to your home, both inside and out, gives it that extra oomph that potential buyers love to see. Not only will you cover up signs of age and weather, but you can update the colors to something more modern. If painting the entire exterior is outside your budget, consider painting at least the trim.

5. Extends the Life of Your Siding

Depending on care and materials, siding should last 20 to 50 years, but extreme weather and general wear and tear can age your siding quicker than anticipated. Give your siding the protection it needs by painting it and shielding it from sunlight and moisture, the latter of which can cause rot.

6. Preserves Structural Integrity

Without a layer of protection, wood is susceptible to mold and mildew, which can eventually rot your wood. There’s nothing you can do about rotten wood except have it completely replaced, which can cause damage to your home’s structure. Regularly painting the exterior of your home will give it a strong defense. Other ways to prevent mold and mildew include cleaning your gutters regularly, putting a dehumidifier in the basement, and sweeping standing water away from outdoor decking.

7. Protects You

Temperature fluctuations over time can cause wood to cup, warp, and split, leading to splinters. Stain and seal your wood deck’s flooring to protect the surface and your bare feet. 

In addition, repainting the inside of your home with low-or-no VOC paint can offer a healthier environment for you and your family. This paint isn’t petroleum-based and contains little or no formaldehyde or heavy metals, while VOC paints might irritate the nose, mouth, and throat. 

8. It Can Increase Home Value

Small touchups can go a long way. Consumer reports over the past few years indicate that a new layer of exterior paint, even if you’ve only done basic paint touch-ups, can increase your home’s financial value by 2-5%.

What about old exterior paint? Although old exterior paint generally does not pose any problems with home appraisals, VA and FHA loans will not approve a property with chipping and peeling paint and will ask the seller to conduct proper repair before financing can go through.

9. Modern Paint Lasts Longer than Old Paint

Exterior paint can come in different formulas. Modern exterior paint is often acrylic or latex-based, whereas older paint tends to be oil-based. Acrylic paint uses high-quality ingredients. It’s durable and temperature-tolerant and lasts 5 to 10 years. Latex paint is a cheaper alternative to acrylic paint and still lasts up to 10 years under ideal conditions.

On the other hand, oil-based exterior paint has gradually exited the market. Oil-based paint emit hazardous fumes when wet and is more likely to crack and fade. Oil-based exterior paint may last less than five years, depending on the climate.

10. Can Help You Locate Damage on the Home?

Exterior painting can also help identify damage, especially early-stage termite infestations. Look for tiny pinholes and bubbling or peeling paint. You should also inspect paneling edges and wood trims.

Inspecting your exterior before painting also helps you identify other damages, including water damage, mold growth, physical damage from inclement weather, and animal damage. If you notice any broken bricks, stones, or siding, make sure to contact a professional to fix the problem before applying a fresh coat of paint.

Who Should You Contact to Get Your House Painted?

Exterior painting can be challenging, especially if you have a multi-story house. Therefore, it’s best to hire a professional exterior painter for the job. On average, it costs between $1.50 and $4 per square foot to hire a professional to paint the exteriors. The price may fluctuate depending on paint type, house design, weather conditions, necessary permits, and if any additional repairs or upgrades are needed before painting.