Inspecting Your Paint: What You Should Look For

blog-paintingAt some point, you may realize that it has been far too long since you last painted your Connecticut property. Further, you’ll start to wonder whether or not it is a good time for a new coat, despite how badly your home may need it.

The answer lies in how the paint is going to hold up to the current elements. It’s recommended that you do an inspection every five to seven years around the perimeter and, in the process, look for the following signs:

  1. Peeling paint: At this point, the paint is no longer creating a protective coating against the elements for your home. When you notice peeling, a paint job is needed right away.
  2. Separating caulk: Check the areas around any wood, brick and windows. If the caulk is separating in these areas, it also means your home is more vulnerable to the elements.
  3. Bare wood is exposed.
  4. You notice distinct mold and water stains in shady areas, which are usually the most common places where snow doesn’t easily melt.
  5. Cracking stucco by the windows and foundation: While many believe that stucco doesn’t need paint, it’s like every other material on your home’s exterior. Without a protective coating, the elements get to it, which leads to cracking and crumbling.

  6. Any caulk you’ve added is brittle or has lost its flexibility.
  7. Rotting wood: Beyond exposed wood, rotting indicates that any damage done has gone deep. Not only does your home need a new paint job, but any wood along the exterior needs to be replaced first.
  8. Stucco has started to crumble and fall off your home’s walls.
  9. Mold and mildew growth can’t be washed off.
  10. The paint color has lost its luster and is now fading.
  11. Chalking: If there’s a white film or a residue that comes off, the paint has started to break down.

In the event that you notice any of these signs, it’s best to have a professional take a look, then do a thorough paint job. For such a project, work with M. Brett for residential exterior painting services. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule an appointment.