How Many Years Does Exterior Paint Last?

The life of exterior paint cannot be given as a single number; the type of paint, the surface preparation, the direction the facade faces and the climate decide it. The same paint stays fresh for a long time on a north facade and wears much sooner on one that takes sun and rain directly. Manufacturers state durability and guarantee periods per product; ask for this when you get a quote.

Five factors that decide its life

• Surface preparation: on a facade that has not been cleaned and primed, even the best paint fails early.
• Type of paint: silicone and pure acrylic paints resist water and sun better.
• Coat thickness: one thinned coat does not replace two full coats.
• Direction: south and west facades fade sooner.
• Water: faulty gutters, sills and balcony leaks lift the paint from behind.

Signs that it is time to repaint

1. White powder on your hand when you rub the wall (chalking)
2. Marked difference in shade between facades, and fading
3. More and more hairline cracks
4. Blistering and flaking
5. The wall darkening and absorbing water in the rain

Maintenance that extends its life

Keep gutters clear, deal with the source of run-off stains, have cracks repaired before they grow and have moss on the north facade cleaned off.

Does expensive paint last longer?

If the preparation is right, yes; if not, it makes no difference. Erdağ Yapı examines your facade on site and recommends a suitable system; details are on our exterior facade paint page.