What Leads to the Deterioration and Breakdown of Exterior House Paint Over Time

To avoid bubbling paint caused by excess moisture, ensure gutters are intact and regularly inspected, while also maintaining proper insulation and ventilation in areas prone to high humidity, such as attics and bathrooms.

The exterior paint job of a house is exposed to the ravages of the elements over time. One unfortunate side effect is flaky or chipped paint, which becomes an eyesore and impacts the property's value.

Knowing the reasons for paint deterioration can be the first step in preventing it.

Poor preparation

If a surface isn't properly prepared for painting, it will lead to long-term failure. Over the years, exterior surfaces are exposed to dirt, mud, and accumulated grit. Therefore, skipping surface preparation will result in bad adhesion and discoloration. The paint will likely come off with stubborn dirt during heavy rain or power washing.

UV exposure

UV rays cause long-term damage to most surfaces, including paint. Exterior paint is constantly exposed to sunshine, which is harsher in some places than others, leading to color loss and damage over the years. One way to avoid this is to invest in UV-resistant paint. It may cost more, but it is still cheaper than repainting the whole house every few years.

Moisture

Excess moisture is the bane of most DIY projects. When it comes to external paint, high moisture rooms can cause water buildup in the surfaces below the paint, causing it to bubble.

To prevent this, regularly inspect gutters for damage. Also, keep attics and bathrooms insulated or ventilated to avoid moisture buildup.

Adhesion failure

Paint contracts after being applied. This helps it bond with the surface below and ensures strong adhesion. Sometimes, paint may contract too much, leading to substrate adhesion failure. This is often evident in flaking or chipped paint after a short period.

The primary cause is that newer paints bind to older ones and pull them off the surface. Older coats of lead (and oil-based paints) are susceptible to this. One way to avoid this issue is to remove all older paint beforehand.

This flaking can also occur if coats haven't had enough time to dry before applying a second layer. Be sure to read the specific instructions on the back of each can of paint.

Avoid a bad paint job

Attempting to paint a house yourself or hiring subpar painters can often result in badly applied exterior paint. A paint job is a significant investment that should last for many years. Therefore, it is better to hire a local painting service with years of experience.

They'll be familiar with local housing surfaces and the proper preparation methods. These professionals also have the necessary training and years of experience to make your house look new.

Absolute A Painting Company is a full-service, custom painting service company in Norfolk, Virginia, offering creative and innovative solutions for your business. For fourteen years, we have delivered quality work with customer service and satisfaction is our top priority. Absolute A Painting Company is dedicated to excellent craftsmanship and customer satisfaction. We serve Norfolk, Suffolk, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Newport News, Hampton Roads, Portsmouth, and surrounding cities. Call us today at (757)260-3556.