Q: How often should I repaint the exterior of my home or business?
The desert’s varying weather conditions, extreme temperatures, harsh sun rays, the strong winds and rains of the monsoon all effect the longevity of paint. Depending on the quality of the paint used and the amount of paint applied, in Arizona it is recommended to paint the exterior of houses every five to seven years. Another factor affecting longevity of paint applied to the house is its style. Houses with overhang paint tends to last longer than houses with flat roofs and parapet walls due to the overhang providing some shelter from the weather and sunlight. It is recommended to start inspecting the exterior of your house after three years. You should be looking for any paint chips on wood and stucco, white spots on paint called efflorescence due to calcium in stucco and/or discoloration.
Q: How do I choose the right paint color?
Consider choosing light colors to make a room appear larger and more open. Dark colors are great for accenting recessed areas, or to highlight details. For adjoining/connected rooms, use the same color changing the tint or shade. Exterior painting has the same concept – use contrasting colors. Most homeowners choose to paint the base of the home a lighter color, with the trim a little darker (or vice versa) to create contrast. Some homes have enough architectural detail to support three colors. To minimize attention to elements such as vents, gutters, a/c units, etc., they should be painted the same color as the base.
Whether your project is interior or exterior, lighting is an important factor when deciding color. Depending on the time of day, it’s important that you assess the color under the predominant lighting conditions. Have your painter put a sample on at least one wall and observe how the color is affected by light. You may find you like the color when the house is bright but in the evening the color has drastically changed, and you no longer find it pleasing.
Q: What is the best interior paint sheen for my house?
When choosing the paint, you will need to consider which sheen or gloss level will work best on your walls. The glossier the paint, the more it will withstand wiping without stripping the paint. When it comes to children and pets, it is best to apply eggshell or velvet sheen paint. Eggshell has slightly more sheen than velvet. On walls which have slight to no texture, it is always recommended to use a flat sheen to minimize imperfections in the drywall.
Q: Why is it important to hire a reputable contractor?
A reputable contractor will likely have years of experience dealing with different paint products and conditions such as weather and other variables that can affect the paint process. Qualified, experienced contractors know the hazards of paint and other products used during the painting process. Reputable painters will help guide in the choice of paint products, ensuring a quality finish that will last for years to come.
To find a licensed, bonded and insured contractor, visit the Arizona Registrar of Contractors website at https://roc.az.gov/contractor-search
