4 Things to Know About Painting Your Home's Exterior

Do you know the last time your home's exterior received a fresh coat of paint? If you cannot recall the last time your home was painted, now might be time to go ahead and do it. Since painting your home is a huge undertaking, know as much as possible about the process before you paint your home. Pittsburgh homeowners understand that our unique climate—with its humid summers, freezing winters, and everything in between—demands special attention when it comes to exterior maintenance.

Whether you're preparing to sell your home, protecting your investment from the elements, or simply want to boost your curb appeal, understanding the fundamentals of Pittsburgh exterior home painting will help you make informed decisions. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about painting your home's exterior, from timing and preparation to color selection and professional hiring.

1. Know When You Should Paint Your Home's Exterior

Certain signs indicate you should paint your home's exterior. If the paint on the exterior of your home has cracks or bubbles or is peeling, paint it right away. Pittsburgh's weather can be particularly harsh on exterior paint, with temperature swings of 50 degrees or more between seasons taking a toll on even the highest-quality finishes.

If you let the paint peel away, this leaves your home exposed to rain, snow, and wind. Parts of your home could become damaged with weather exposure. It could also cause mold and rotting—problems that are especially common in Pittsburgh's humid climate.

Warning Signs Your Exterior Needs Painting

Other signs you should paint your home include:

• Cracked caulking around the doors and windows — This allows moisture intrusion and energy loss
• Moisture stains — Often appearing as dark spots or streaks on siding
• Fading colors — Sun exposure, especially on south-facing walls, causes premature fading
• Chalking — When you run your hand across the paint and it leaves a powdery residue
• Mildew or mold growth — Common in Pittsburgh's humid environment
• Wood rot or damage — Paint protects wood from moisture damage

You will also want to paint your home if a certain number of years have passed since the last time you painted it. Knowing when to paint your home largely depends on the material your home is constructed from.

Painting Timeline by Siding Material

For example, if your home is wood, it should receive a fresh coat of paint every three to seven years. Wood is particularly susceptible to Pittsburgh's freeze-thaw cycles, which can cause paint to crack and peel more quickly than in milder climates.

Stucco homes and homes with aluminum siding need repainting about every five years. Houses with cement fiberboard siding only need repainting every 10 to 15 years. Here's a complete breakdown:

• Wood siding: Every 3-7 years
• Aluminum siding: Every 5-7 years
• Stucco: Every 5-6 years
• Cement fiberboard (Hardie Board): Every 10-15 years
• Brick (painted): Every 15-20 years
• Vinyl siding: Rarely needs painting, but can be painted every 10+ years

2. Know the Benefits of Painting Your Home's Exterior

Besides improving the aesthetics of your home, Pittsburgh exterior home painting provides other benefits that many homeowners don't initially consider. A fresh coat of paint is one of the highest ROI home improvements you can make.

Protection From the Elements

Your home will have better protection from both pests and harsh weather. Quality exterior paint acts as a barrier against:

• Moisture intrusion — Paint seals wood and other materials against rain, snow, and humidity
• UV damage — Pigments and additives protect siding from sun degradation
• Insect infestation — A sealed surface is harder for wood-boring insects to penetrate
• Temperature extremes — Paint helps insulate and protect against thermal stress

Increased Home Value

You will increase the value of your home significantly. According to real estate experts, a fresh exterior paint job can increase your home's value by 2-5%, and in Pittsburgh's competitive housing market, curb appeal matters tremendously.

If you hope to sell your home in the near future, you should definitely repaint it. A fresh coat of paint will add curb appeal, which will make it easier to sell. Many Pittsburgh real estate agents recommend exterior painting as one of the top three improvements sellers can make before listing.

Extended Siding Lifespan

You will increase the lifespan of your siding dramatically. By protecting the underlying material from moisture, UV rays, and temperature fluctuations, paint can add decades to the life of your siding. This is especially important in Pittsburgh, where replacing siding can cost tens of thousands of dollars.

3. Know How to Choose the Right Colors

Selecting the right colors for your Pittsburgh exterior home painting project is about more than personal preference. The colors you choose can affect your home's perceived size, its energy efficiency, and even its resale value.

Consider Your Neighborhood

While you want your home to stand out, you also don't want it to clash with the surrounding properties. Pittsburgh neighborhoods each have their own character—from the historic brick homes of Squirrel Hill to the Victorian painted ladies of the North Side. Consider:

• The predominant color palette in your neighborhood
• Any HOA restrictions or historic district guidelines
• Your home's architectural style
• The color of fixed elements like your roof, stonework, or brick

Climate Considerations for Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh's climate should influence your color choices. Darker colors absorb more heat, which can be beneficial for heating costs in our cold winters but may cause paint to fade more quickly on sun-exposed surfaces. Lighter colors reflect heat and tend to last longer but may show dirt more easily.

Consider using darker colors on north-facing walls where sun exposure is minimal, and lighter or more fade-resistant colors on south and west-facing surfaces.

Trending Exterior Colors for Pittsburgh Homes

Current popular exterior color trends in the Pittsburgh area include:

• Classic whites and creams — Timeless and clean
• Sophisticated grays — Modern and versatile
• Deep blues and greens — Rich and welcoming
• Warm earth tones — Complement Pittsburgh's natural landscape
• Bold accent colors — For doors, shutters, and trim

4. Know Why Hiring a Professional Painter is Worth It

While DIY exterior painting might seem like a cost-saving measure, there are compelling reasons to hire a professional Pittsburgh painter for your exterior project.

Safety Considerations

Exterior painting often involves working at significant heights, using ladders and scaffolding. Professional painters have the training, equipment, and insurance to work safely. Falls from ladders are one of the leading causes of home improvement injuries, and the risk simply isn't worth taking for most homeowners.

Quality and Longevity

Professional painters understand the importance of proper preparation, which accounts for about 80% of a successful paint job. This includes:

• Power washing to remove dirt, mold, and loose paint
• Scraping and sanding to create a smooth surface
• Priming bare wood and problem areas
• Caulking gaps and cracks
• Repairing damaged siding, trim, and other elements

A professional paint job in Pittsburgh should last 7-10 years or more when done correctly, while a DIY job often begins failing within 2-3 years due to inadequate preparation.

Time and Convenience

What might take a homeowner several weekends to complete, a professional crew can often finish in a few days. This means less disruption to your life and a faster path to enjoying your home's new look.

Warranty and Peace of Mind

Reputable Pittsburgh painting contractors like Fagan Painting offer warranties on their work, giving you protection if any issues arise. This peace of mind is invaluable, especially for such a significant investment.

Best Time of Year for Exterior Painting in Pittsburgh

Timing your Pittsburgh exterior home painting project correctly is crucial for achieving the best results. Paint needs specific temperature and humidity conditions to cure properly.

Ideal Painting Conditions

The best conditions for exterior painting are:

• Temperature: Between 50°F and 85°F (ideal range is 60-75°F)
• Humidity: Below 50% for optimal drying
• Weather: No rain in the forecast for 24-48 hours
• Surface temperature: Not too hot from direct sun exposure

Pittsburgh's Painting Season

In Pittsburgh, the prime exterior painting season typically runs from late April through October. However, the best months are usually May, June, and September when temperatures are moderate and humidity is lower.

Early morning moisture from Pittsburgh's frequent fog and dew can delay the start of painting until surfaces dry completely. Professional painters know to account for these conditions and adjust their schedules accordingly.

How Much Does Exterior Painting Cost in Pittsburgh?

The cost of exterior painting in Pittsburgh varies based on several factors. Understanding these can help you budget appropriately and evaluate quotes from contractors.

Factors Affecting Cost

• Home size: Larger homes require more paint and labor
• Number of stories: Multi-story homes require more equipment and safety measures
• Surface condition: Extensive prep work increases costs
• Paint quality: Premium paints cost more but last longer
• Trim and detail work: Intricate trim adds to labor time
• Color changes: Dramatic color changes may require additional coats

Getting Accurate Estimates

When getting quotes for your Pittsburgh exterior home painting project, make sure to:

• Get at least three written estimates
• Ask about preparation work included
• Inquire about paint brands and quality levels
• Request references from recent projects
• Verify licensing, insurance, and any warranties offered

Frequently Asked Questions About Pittsburgh Exterior Home Painting

How long does exterior paint last in Pittsburgh?

Quality exterior paint applied by professionals typically lasts 7-10 years in Pittsburgh. However, this varies based on the paint quality, surface preparation, sun exposure, and the siding material. South and west-facing surfaces may show wear sooner due to increased sun exposure.

Can you paint the exterior of a house in cold weather?

Traditional latex paints require temperatures above 50°F to cure properly. However, some premium paints are formulated to work in temperatures as low as 35°F. In Pittsburgh, we generally recommend scheduling exterior painting between late April and October for best results.

How much does it cost to paint the exterior of a house in Pittsburgh?

Exterior painting costs in Pittsburgh typically range from $3,000 to $8,000 for an average-sized home, though larger or more complex homes can cost more. Factors include home size, condition, paint quality, and the amount of prep work required. Contact Fagan Painting for a free estimate.

Should I power wash my house before painting?

Yes, power washing is an essential step in exterior painting preparation. It removes dirt, mold, mildew, and loose paint, allowing the new paint to adhere properly. Professional painters include this as part of their preparation process.

How many coats of paint does an exterior need?

Most exterior painting projects require two coats of paint for optimal coverage and durability. A primer coat may also be necessary if you're painting bare wood, covering a dark color with a light one, or addressing stains and problem areas.

What's the best exterior paint for Pittsburgh homes?

For Pittsburgh's variable climate, we recommend 100% acrylic latex paints from premium brands like Sherwin-Williams or Benjamin Moore. These paints offer excellent adhesion, flexibility to handle temperature changes, and resistance to mold and mildew.

How do I maintain my exterior paint to make it last longer?

Regular maintenance can significantly extend your paint's lifespan. This includes annual cleaning to remove dirt and mildew, promptly addressing any chips or peeling, keeping gutters clean to prevent water damage, and trimming vegetation away from painted surfaces.

Is it better to spray or brush exterior paint?

Professional painters often use a combination of techniques. Spraying provides fast, even coverage for large surfaces, while brushing is used for detail work, trim, and areas where precision is needed. The "back-brushing" technique—spraying then brushing—provides the best adhesion.

Ready to Transform Your Home's Exterior?

Painting your home's exterior is a significant investment that pays dividends in protection, beauty, and home value. Whether you're noticing signs of wear or simply want to update your home's look, understanding these four key aspects of Pittsburgh exterior home painting will help you achieve the best results.

At Fagan Painting LLC, we've been helping Pittsburgh homeowners protect and beautify their homes for over 15 years. Our team of experienced professionals understands the unique challenges of painting in Pittsburgh's climate and uses only the highest-quality materials and techniques.

Ready to get started? Contact us today for a free, no-obligation estimate on your exterior painting project. We serve Pittsburgh and all surrounding communities including Squirrel Hill, Fox Chapel, Mt. Washington, and many more.