As proud homeowners in Metro Atlanta, we understand that a high-quality paint job does more than just enhance curb appeal, it protects your home from the elements and enhances the beauty and comfort of your indoor spaces. But once the final coat dries, many homeowners are left wondering: What now? How do you maintain that fresh, vibrant finish for years to come?
At Three Brothers Painting, with over three decades of experience serving families and businesses across the Atlanta metro area, we’ve become experts in the field. We often hear the same questions from clients eager to protect their investments. In this post, we answer the most common questions about paint maintenance and care so you can keep your home looking its best long after the paint is applied.
How Often Should I Repaint My House?
The short answer: It depends—on your home’s surface material, the type of paint used, the quality of the previous paint job, and the exposure to Georgia’s weather patterns.
Here’s a general guideline:
- Exterior Trim & Wood Siding: Every 5–7 years
- Stucco: Every 5–6 years
- Brick (painted): Every 7–10 years
- Fiber Cement Siding (like HardiePlank): Every 10–15 years with proper prep and premium paint
- Interior Walls: Every 5–7 years depending on traffic, sun exposure, and wear
Homes in Metro Atlanta face a unique mix of hot summers, high humidity, and heavy rain. These elements can accelerate paint deterioration, particularly on the exterior of the home. If your paint is starting to fade, crack, peel, or chalk, it may be time for a refresh, even if it hasn’t been five full years yet.
Pro tip: A professional paint inspection every couple of years can catch minor issues before they turn into costly repairs.
How Do I Clean Painted Walls?
Cleaning painted walls is easier than you think, but it does require a gentle touch to avoid dulling or damaging the finish.
Here’s how to do it right:
- Dust First: Use a dry microfiber cloth, a duster, or a vacuum with a brush attachment to remove surface dust and cobwebs. Don’t skip this step—dry debris can scratch the paint when you add moisture.
- Use a Gentle Cleaner: Mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water. For tougher spots (like fingerprints or crayon marks), you can use a diluted white vinegar solution or a small amount of baking soda on a damp sponge.
- Test a Small Area First: Always test your cleaning solution on a hidden spot first to ensure it doesn’t discolor or strip the paint.
- Clean in Circles and Don’t Soak: Use a soft sponge or cloth, working gently in circular motions. Avoid soaking the wall—too much water can damage drywall and cause bubbling or streaking.
- Dry Immediately: Pat the area dry with a clean towel to prevent water spots.
Paint finish matters. Flat or matte finishes are more prone to showing wear from scrubbing, while satin, eggshell, and semi-gloss finishes tend to hold up better to cleaning.
What Can I Do to Make My Paint Job Last Longer?
A well-maintained paint job can last for years, but it needs a little care and attention. Here’s how you can extend the life of your investment:
1. Invest in Quality from the Start
The longevity of your paint job starts before the first coat is even applied. Choosing high-quality paints and hiring experienced professionals who take the time to prep surfaces properly can dramatically increase durability. At Three Brothers Painting, we never cut corners. We prep thoroughly, use premium products, and stand behind our work.
2. Perform Routine Inspections
Check for cracks, peeling, mildew, or water stains, especially on exterior surfaces and around doors and windows. Early detection means easier fixes.
3. Keep Gutters and Landscaping in Check
Clogged gutters or overgrown shrubs can cause excess moisture or debris buildup, which leads to paint damage. Trim plants and ensure water is draining away from your home properly.
4. Touch Up as Needed
Minor nicks and dings are inevitable, especially in high-traffic areas like hallways, kitchens, and kids’ rooms. Keep leftover paint from your project for quick touch-ups to prevent minor damage from spreading.
5. Clean Regularly and Gently
As mentioned above, regular, gentle cleaning helps maintain that freshly painted look and keeps grime from embedding into the surface.
6. Protect Painted Surfaces Indoors
Use furniture pads, install bumpers on doors, and keep pets’ nails trimmed to avoid scratches on your baseboards or trim. Sunlight can also fade colors over time, so consider curtains or UV-blocking window film for rooms with intense sunlight.
Your Paint Job Is an Investment. We’re Here to Help You Protect It
Whether you’re refreshing your home’s exterior, brightening up the kitchen, or adding a splash of color to a nursery, a paint job is an investment in your home’s appearance and value. Knowing how to care for that investment is the key to keeping it vibrant and strong for years to come.
At Three Brothers Painting, we believe in doing things the right way, from the first consultation to the final coat. If you ever have questions about maintaining your painted surfaces or are noticing signs that it’s time for a refresh, we’re just a phone call away. We’re here to support you in keeping your home vibrant and strong.
Do you need a paint consultation or estimate? Give us a call today or request a free quote online. Let’s make your home look its best and keep it that way.