The exterior of your home faces wind, rain, frost and sun every day. Paint does more than improve appearance. It forms a protective barrier against moisture, rot and surface decay. Leave it too long and damage sets in. Paint too often, and you waste money. Timing matters.
Most homes require exterior repainting every 5 to 10 years. The range shifts depending on surface type, climate exposure and previous preparation. Below is a precise guide based on the material and condition.
How Often to Paint Based on Surface Type
Different materials age at different rates. Paint bonds differently to timber, render and masonry. You must judge each surface on its own performance.
Timber Cladding and Woodwork – Every 3 to 7 Years
Timber expands and contracts with moisture. Sunlight breaks down coatings. South-facing elevations fade faster.
Repaint timber every 3 to 5 years in exposed areas. Sheltered elevations may last up to 7 years.
Inspect for:
- Peeling paint
- Cracked filler
- Soft or darkened wood
- Gaps in joints
Do not ignore minor flaking. Water enters exposed timber quickly.
Rendered Walls – Every 7 to 10 Years
Modern masonry paint lasts longer on render. Acrylic and silicone-based coatings resist dirt and moisture.
Most rendered homes require repainting every 7 to 10 years, provided the original preparation was done properly.
Look for:
- Hairline cracks
- Faded colour
- Powdery surface (chalkiness)
- Algae or mould growth
Clean and repair cracks before repainting. Paint alone will not hide structural movement.
Brickwork – Only When Coated
Unpainted brick does not require painting. Once you apply masonry paint, you commit to ongoing maintenance.
Painted brickwork typically needs repainting every 8 to 15 years.
If paint begins to blister or trap moisture, address it promptly. Poor breathability damages brick faces.
Metal Railings and Gates – Every 3 to 6 Years
Metal surfaces corrode once coatings fail. Rust spreads quickly.
Repaint metal every 3 to 6 years, depending on the exposure. Coastal areas demand more frequent treatment.
Check for:
- Rust spots
- Bubbling paint
- Flaking edges
Sand back to bare metal before applying primer and topcoat.
Climate and Location Influence Timing
Homes in coastal regions are exposed to salt-laden air. This shortens paint life. Properties near busy roads can gather grime and pollutants. Rural homes face damp and moss.
South and west elevations fade faster due to UV exposure. Wind-driven rain weakens exposed walls.
Inspect your exterior annually. Do not rely solely on calendar years.
Signs Your Home Needs Repainting
Visible deterioration signals urgency. Act before damage spreads.
Watch for:
- Peeling or blistering paint
- Cracks in render or timber joints
- Fading or uneven colour
- Mould, algae or staining
- Exposed bare substrate
Touch the surface. If paint powders on your fingers, the coating has broken down.
The Impact of Preparation and Paint Quality
Preparation defines durability. Poor surface cleaning or skipped primer can reduce lifespan by years.
High-grade masonry paint often lasts twice as long as budget alternatives. Trade products resist cracking and maintain colour depth.
Apply two full coats. Ensure surfaces remain dry during application. Avoid painting in extreme heat or damp conditions.
New Builds and Recently Rendered Homes
Fresh render requires curing before painting. Wait at least 3 to 6 months before applying masonry paint.
New timber installations require primer and undercoat before the topcoat. Proper sealing at this stage extends repainting intervals.
Can You Extend the Time Between Repaints?
Yes. Regular inspections and minor touch-ups can prevent repainting.
Clean exterior walls every 1-2 years. Remove algae early. Try to re-seal gaps around windows and doors. Maintain guttering to prevent water staining.
Small maintenance protects the wider finish.
When Repainting Becomes Urgent
Do not delay repainting if you notice exposed wood or deep cracking. Water penetration causes structural decay. Repair costs exceed repainting costs.
If the render begins to detach or blister, seek professional assessment. Painting over unstable surfaces can trap moisture and worsen damage.
Typical Repainting Costs
Exterior repainting costs vary by the size and access. As a guide:
- Terraced house: £1,000 – £2,500
- Semi-detached: £1,500 – £3,500
- Detached property: £3,000 – £6,000+
Scaffolding increases cost. Complex detailing increases labour time.
Budgeting for repainting every decade to maintain the property value in the long term.
Final Guidance on Exterior Painting Frequency
Most homeowners should plan for exterior repainting every 5 to 10 years. It’s adjusted by material and exposure. Timber requires more frequent attention. Render lasts longer with correct care.
Inspect annually. Act early. Maintain surfaces consistently.
A well-painted exterior does more than improve appearance. It defends your home against moisture, decay and costly structural repairs. Timing it correctly keeps your property strong, clean and protected year after year.
