Exterior paint that lasts

A lasting exterior starts with prep: wash, scrape loose paint, repair rotted wood, caulk, prime bare wood (cedar and redwood need a stain-blocking primer), then apply two topcoats on bare surfaces. In pre-1978 homes, scraping can release lead dust.

Weather matters. Typical data sheets call for air, surface and paint above 35°F and at least 5°F above dew point, no temps below 35°F for 48 hours, and no rain for 2–3 hours. Many standard paints and primers need 50°F, so minimums vary by product.

Typical repaint ranges are 7–10 years for exterior paint overall, 3–10 years for wood, 5–15 for stucco and 10–15 for fiber cement. These are typical ranges that vary with prep, product and sun exposure.