How to Tell When Your Home Needs to Be Repainted

A Homeowner’s Guide to Understanding What Painting Your House Really Costs

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late — Here Are the Signs

When was the last time you painted your home? If you can’t remember — or if it’s been more than 5-10 years — your home might be quietly begging for a refresh. A good paint job protects your home just as much as it beautifies it. But how do you know it’s time?

At PTG Painting, we help homeowners all across Massachusetts restore their homes before the damage gets worse. Here are the key signs it’s time to repaint.

1. Fading Paint

Paint fades over time, especially on surfaces that take a beating from the sun and weather. If your once-vibrant walls are now looking dull, chalky, or washed out, that’s a big clue it’s time for a fresh coat.

What to look for:

Uneven color, especially on the sunny side of your home
Chalky residue when you rub the wall with your hand
Interior walls that look dirty even after cleaning

2. Peeling, Cracking, or Bubbling Paint

These are red-alert signs! If paint is peeling, cracking, or bubbling, moisture is likely getting under the surface — which can lead to rot, mold, and expensive repairs.

Pro Tip: Once paint starts peeling, repainting becomes urgent. Don’t just “touch it up” — it needs full prep and repainting.

3. Visible Signs of Damage or Wear

Got wood rot on trim? Nail pops in drywall? Scuffed up baseboards? Your paint is doing its job — but once it’s damaged, it can’t protect anymore.

Look for:

Rotting or soft trim
Black streaks near gutters
Scratches or gouges on walls and baseboards

4. It’s Been Over 7 Years

Even if your paint looks fine, many paints start losing their protective properties after 5–10 years (especially outdoors). Interior walls might be fine longer, but high-traffic areas fade faster.

Rule of thumb:

Exterior paint: Every 5–10 years
Interior paint: Every 7–10 years
Trim/Doors: Every 2–5 years (they take more abuse)

5. You’re Just Ready for a Change

Sometimes it’s not about damage — you just want to modernize the space or boost curb appeal. A fresh paint job can make your home feel brand new, increase your property value, and give you pride every time you pull in the driveway.