How long does exterior paint last on a house?
Good quality exterior masonry paint lasts seven to ten years on a well-prepared surface. Cheaper paints may only last four to five years. The single most important factor is preparation — painting over flaking or chalky surfaces without scraping, washing, and priming first means even the best paint will fail within two or three years.
Our painting and decorating cost guide covers typical prices for exterior work.
Masonry walls
Always use a stabilising solution on chalky render before applying two full coats of a premium masonry paint. South and west-facing elevations take the most punishment from sun and rain, so those sides of the house will need attention first. If you notice cracking, peeling, or the paint chalking when you rub it, do not wait — letting moisture get behind the paint film leads to damp problems that are far more expensive to fix.
Timber surfaces
Exterior woodwork — fascias, soffits, window frames, and doors — typically needs repainting every five to seven years with a good exterior gloss or satin. For timber in exposed locations, a microporous exterior wood stain lasts longer than traditional gloss because it flexes with the wood rather than cracking and peeling.
Coastal and exposed properties
Coastal properties are the hardest hit. Salt spray, wind-driven rain, and higher UV exposure mean exterior paint on a seafront property may only last four to six years even with premium products. Silicone-based masonry paints are more breathable and resistant to salt damage than standard acrylics, making them a better choice for coastal homes.
What this means for a quote
An exterior painting quote should specify the preparation method (scraping, sanding, priming), the paint brand and type, and the number of coats. These details make it possible for customers to compare quotes properly. If you use TailoredQuote, you can generate an itemised scope that separates preparation from application so nothing is unclear.
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