Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions:
How do I know if it's time to repaint my home's exterior?
Look for signs like fading color, cracking or peeling paint, mildew or mold growth, and exposed wood. These indicate the paint is no longer adequately protecting your home.
What are the benefits of repainting my home's interior?
Fresh paint can improve the aesthetics, increase property value, protect surfaces from wear and tear, and even improve indoor air quality by covering old, potentially VOC-emitting paints.
How long does exterior paint typically last?
Depending on the quality of the paint, climate, and surface preparation, exterior paint can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years. Lighter colors and paints with higher acrylic content tend to last longer.
How long does interior paint typically last?
Interior paint generally lasts longer than exterior paint, typically 5 to 10 years, or even longer in low-traffic areas. However, kitchens and bathrooms may need repainting more frequently due to moisture.
Should I pressure wash my home before exterior painting?
Yes, pressure washing is highly recommended to remove dirt, mildew, loose paint, and other debris, ensuring proper adhesion of the new paint.
How do I choose the right paint sheen for different areas?
Flat/Matte: Best for low-traffic walls and ceilings, hides imperfections well.
Eggshell/Satin: Good for most walls, offers a slight sheen and better washability than flat.
Semi-Gloss: Durable and easy to clean, ideal for trim, doors, and kitchens/bathrooms.
High-Gloss: Very durable and reflective, often used for trim or accent pieces.
How much does it typically cost to paint a whole home?
The cost varies greatly depending on the size of the home, the condition of the surfaces, the type of paint used, and whether you hire professionals or DIY. Get multiple quotes for a more accurate estimate.
Specific Areas:
Garage Doors:
What type of paint is best for garage doors?
Exterior-grade acrylic latex paint is generally a good choice for metal or wood garage doors due to its durability and flexibility.
Do I need to prime my garage door before painting?
It depends on the material and condition. Bare metal or wood usually requires a primer. If the existing paint is in good condition, you might be able to skip priming.
Shutters:
What kind of paint should I use on exterior shutters?
Exterior-grade acrylic latex or enamel paints are durable and weather-resistant options.
Should I remove the shutters before painting?
Removing them makes it easier to paint all surfaces evenly and avoid getting paint on the siding.
Fence:
What type of paint or stain is best for a fence?
For wood fences, both paint and stain are options. Stain enhances the wood grain, while paint provides more color options and protection. Choose exterior-grade products specifically designed for fences. For metal fences, exterior metal paint is recommended.
Do I need to prepare my fence before painting or staining?
Yes, cleaning the fence and addressing any mildew or loose material is important for proper adhesion.
Doors (Interior & Exterior):
What kind of paint is best for interior doors?
Semi-gloss or satin finishes are popular for interior doors because they are durable and easy to clean.
What kind of paint is best for exterior doors?
Exterior-grade enamel or acrylic latex paints offer good weather resistance and durability.
Should I remove the door to paint it?
Removing the door can make it easier to paint all edges evenly, but it's not always necessary. Proper masking and technique can achieve good results with the door in place.
Trim (Interior & Exterior):
What type of paint is best for trim?
Semi-gloss or gloss paints are commonly used for both interior and exterior trim due to their durability and ability to highlight architectural details.
Cabinets:
What kind of paint should I use on kitchen or bathroom cabinets?
Durable paints like enamel (alkyd or acrylic) or specialized cabinet paints are recommended for their hard finish and washability. Proper priming is crucial.
Ceilings:
What kind of paint is best for ceilings?
Flat or matte paint is typically used for ceilings to minimize imperfections and reduce glare. There are also specific "ceiling paints" that often have a splatter-resistant formula.
Walls:
What is the best paint sheen for interior walls?
Eggshell or satin are common choices for general interior walls, offering a balance of washability and a soft appearance.
Trim (Interior):
What's the best way to paint interior trim?
Typically, you'll want to clean the trim, lightly sand if needed, prime (especially if changing colors significantly), and then apply 1-2 coats of a semi-gloss or gloss paint.
Crown Molding:
How do I paint crown molding effectively?
Careful taping along the wall and ceiling lines is essential for a clean look. Use a brush designed for trim work and apply thin, even coats.
Accent Walls:
Can I use a different type or sheen of paint for an accent wall?
Absolutely! Accent walls are a great place to play with color and even different sheens to create visual interest.
Shiplap Walls:
What's the best way to paint shiplap?
You can use a brush, roller, or even a sprayer. Be sure to get paint into the grooves between the boards. Back-brushing after rolling can help ensure even coverage.