How to Make Your Exterior Paint Last as Long as Possible (PNW Edition)

How to Make Your Exterior Paint Last as Long as Possible (PNW Edition)

🏡 Protect Your Investment—And Boost Your Curb Appeal

In the Pacific Northwest, your home’s paint does more than look good—it’s the first line of defense against constant rain, humidity, moss, and UV exposure. But even the best paint job can fall short without the right prep, product, and maintenance.

Here’s what you (and your painter) can do to maximize your paint’s lifespan and protect your home for the long haul:

1️⃣ Start with the Right Paint & Proper Prep

✔ Use Professional-Grade Paints Built for the PNW
At Gullard Painting, we trust:

• Rodda CoverCoat XL and Protector XL – Formulated specifically for Western WA weather.

• Sherwin-Williams Duration® and Emerald® – Industry staples trusted by homeowners and contractors alike.

💡 Why it matters: PNW-specific paints resist mildew, moisture, and UV damage better—keeping your home protected year-round.

✔ Proper Prep is Non-Negotiable

Before a single brush stroke, your home needs:

• Power washing to remove dirt and mildew

• Scraping and sanding peeling paint

• Spot priming bare wood or trouble areas

🚫 Skipping prep is the #1 reason paint fails early.

2️⃣ Maintain Your Paint Job to Extend Its Life

Even with the best paint, regular care is what makes it last:

✔ Inspect Every Year:

• Look for peeling, bubbling, or mildew—especially on south- and west-facing walls.

✔ Wash the Exterior:

• Gently hose down dirt and mildew once a year—avoid pressure washing.

✔ Watch Your Gutters & Landscaping:

• Keep gutters clean and trim back bushes or trees touching your siding.

🌿 PNW Tip: Moss and mildew thrive in shaded, damp spots. Stay ahead of growth to protect your siding.

3️⃣ Know What Wears Down Paint in Lewis County

✔ Moisture & Rain: Causes mildew, bubbling, and peeling.
✔ UV Exposure: Fades darker colors, especially on southern walls.
✔ Moss & Algae: Grows fast here and traps moisture against your paint.
✔ Poor Drainage: Leads to premature failure and wood rot.

💡 Pro Tip: Lighter, earthy tones tend to hold up better and fade less in our climate.

4️⃣ How Long Will Exterior Paint Last?

For most homes in Chehalis, Centralia, and greater Lewis County, a well-done paint job lasts 10-20 years with proper care.

What shortens that timeline?
✔ Poor prep or cheap paint
✔ Neglected maintenance
✔ Heavy sun or rain exposure
✔ Dark, fade-prone colors

🎯 The Bottom Line:

A professional paint job is an investment—but it only pays off if you protect it. Choosing high-quality materials, committing to proper prep, and performing routine maintenance means your exterior paint will stand up to PNW weather and last for years.

Need help planning your next exterior project? Gullard Painting has you covered. From Chehalis to Centralia, we know what it takes to protect homes in Lewis County.