How to Extend the Life of Your Paint Job

Most people are in the habit of washing their deck furniture, or their car on a regular basis but it is their deck and house, that is oftentimes not washed for many years. In the northeast residential paint jobs don’t always last too long. Our repaints usually occur every 6 to 10 years, but not without a little care in between.

Each year dust, dirt, pollen, and organisms can build up on the painted surfaces. When rains soak these surfaces they feed the organisms. Over time, mold and mildew start to grow. This growth can become very obvious after the first 3 to 4 years and require washing with high pressure whereby fading the stain or paint. If a house is washed with light bleach-water mix and low pressure (or distance) on an annual basis, the organisms and other debris that cause mold and mildew are not allowed to build up leaving nothing for the rain to feed. Additionally, weak points in the adhesion of the existing coating may be revealed during washing in the 4th to 7th year. When these weak points are discovered, touch-ups can be under-taken to protect the facade from rot and prolong the repainting of your home. Washing is an inexpensive way to maintain your house and is even something that you could tackle yourself on a weekend.

Decks do not have a long life and need care more often, but generally, the same principles apply. The average time for recoating a deck (same product) is 2 to 3 years, with light preparation.