Painting an older home can be a really rewarding project, giving your house a fresh look while preserving its character. However, it also comes with some unique challenges that you might not face with newer buildings. Older homes have stood through decades, sometimes even centuries, and that history can bring a few tricky surprises when it’s time to paint.

If you’re thinking about painting an older home, it’s good to know what to expect so you can plan better and avoid headaches along the way. Here’s a friendly guide to some of the most common challenges you might run into, along with some smart advice to tackle them.

 

Peeling and Cracked Paint

One of the first problems you’ll probably notice when painting an older home is peeling or cracked paint. Layers of old paint break down over time due to weather, moisture, and everyday wear. Before applying your new coat, all that flaky paint needs to be scraped or sanded off to make sure the new paint sticks properly.

If you skip this step, the fresh paint might bubble or peel quickly. It’s a lot more work upfront, but it’s worth it to get a smooth, long-lasting finish.

 

Lead-Based Paint Concerns

Many older homes, especially those built before the late 1970s, have lead-based paint, which can be hazardous if not handled carefully. If you’re planning to do the painting yourself or hire someone, testing for lead paint is important. Disturbing lead paint through sanding or scraping can release harmful dust.

Experts recommend working with professionals who understand how to safely remove or seal lead paint to protect your family and anyone doing the work.

 

Surface Damage and Rot

Older houses often have parts of the wood trim, siding, or other surfaces that may be damaged or rotted from years of exposure to the elements. Painting over damaged wood won’t fix the problem, and the new paint won’t hold up well.

Before painting, these areas need to be repaired or replaced. Sometimes that means removing rotten wood and filling gaps or cracks to create a stable surface. This repair step is key for a paint job that looks great and lasts for years.

 

Stains and Discoloration

With time, older homes can develop stains from water damage, mold, or even smoke from fireplaces or kitchens. These stains can bleed through fresh paint if they aren’t treated properly beforehand.

Using a good stain-blocking primer helps seal those spots so the new paint looks even and clean. Without this step, you might end up having to paint over and over to cover up stubborn stains.

 

Choosing the Right Paint and Colors

Older homes come in many styles, and sometimes that calls for specific paint types or colors to keep the home’s charm and comply with local historical guidelines. For example, some historic neighborhoods have rules about what colors and finishes you can use on your home’s exterior.

Also, older wood needs paint that offers more flexibility and breathability to prevent cracking and peeling. Asking a paint professional for advice can save a lot of guesswork and trouble.

 

Difficulty in Reaching Certain Areas

Older homes often have architectural details like intricate moldings, tall porches, or unique trim that require more careful painting. These areas can be hard to reach and paint well without proper tools and experience.

Rushing through these spots can leave the paint job looking uneven or sloppy. Taking your time or hiring skilled painters helps make sure every nook and cranny looks perfect.

 

Weather and Timing

The weather can be a big challenge when painting an older home. High humidity, rain, or extreme temperatures can affect how paint dries, which might lead to peeling or blistering later.

It’s best to paint during mild, dry weather whenever possible. Planning your project around the right season can protect your new paint job and help you avoid costly repairs down the road.

 

Why Hire a Professional for Older Homes?

Because of all these challenges, painting an older home is often more complicated than it looks. Professionals have the right experience and equipment to handle old paint safely, fix damaged surfaces, and apply paint in a way that lasts.

Hiring experienced painters also means finishing the job faster and with less hassle for you, letting you enjoy your refreshed home sooner.

 

Olson Commercial and Residential Painting Can Help

If you’re ready to give your older home a fresh coat of paint but you want the job done right, Olson Commercial and Residential Painting is here for you. They understand the special needs of older homes and bring skilled craftsmanship to every project.

With attention to detail and care for your home’s history, Olson Painting helps your house look its best and protects it for years to come.

 

Contact Olson Commercial and Residential Painting

Ready to make your older home look brand new? Reach out:

Whether you want to refresh one room or give your whole house a makeover, Olson Painting offers friendly service and expert results you can trust.

 

Painting an older home takes a bit more work, but it’s also a way to keep the charm and character alive while making your house look fresh and welcoming again. By understanding these common challenges and choosing the right team to help, you’ll enjoy a smoother and more satisfying painting experience.

 

 

Source: Olson Commercial and Residential Painting Facebook Page
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