Have you looked at your home’s exterior and thought, “Why is my paint fading?” Naturally, the elements like sun and wind wear down a paint’s finish, but to what extent and what can be done to prevent your home’s paint from fading?

Unfortunately, after time, paint can fade and look unsightly. Understanding what causes paint to fade, what fading paint means, and how to correct paint that fades may not be as straightforward as it seems. Our painters at Flying Colors Painting have broken down not only why your paint is fading but steps to remediate this home issue.

Maintaining and updating your home’s exterior is an important part of homeownership. Whether you want to update your exterior with a new color or get your home ready to sell, there are many reasons why painting your home is a great option. 

What Part of Paint Causes it to Fade?

There are three main components in paint. There are solvents or liquids that act as the method of application and they dissipate after the paint is applied, pigments, which provide the color and hiding properties of your paint, and binders that both hold your pigments together and help create a hard film once your paint is dried. These components work together to create a protective layer for your surfaces.

While pigments may seem like the likely culprit of why your paint fades, it is the binders that actually degrade over time and cause fading. Binders are the key ingredient to how well your paint performs when it comes to adhesion to surfaces, scrub resistance, washability, and gloss retention or ability to face resistance. 

As the hard layer that forms after the paint dries, binders are broken down over time and cause paint to fade. There are, however, certain steps to take to help prevent binders from breaking down (or at least slow down this process) so your paint doesn’t fade as quickly and ultimately protects your home for years to come.

Choose Colors That Will Last

We mentioned earlier that pigments are what give your paint its color as well as coverage of what is beneath it. Pigments are one of two main types–organic or inorganic. For exterior paint applications, inorganic colorants are used, which are more durable for exterior applications. Conversely, brighter colors, such as those used on some doors, utilize organic colorants; though organic colorants are more noticeable when they fade and are not typically found in many exterior paints because they’re less durable. 

A note from the experts: the quality of paint you choose will directly influence how vibrant your colors look and how long your binders last. Some lower-grade paints may be more cost-effective but have additives and extender pigments that do not last over time. Your local contractor will know which paints are best for your project, as well as what colors attract sunlight, which causes your paint to fade more quickly.

Weather Does the Damage

Now that we know how paint functions, the question of what causes damage to paint remains. For starters, sunlight is the primary cause of paint fading. Next time you are outside your home, take a look at the surfaces of your home that receive direct sunlight versus the ones that do not. Those surfaces with direct exposure to the sun and its harmful UV rays are likely to be noticeably lighter than those that are mostly in the shade. This is also noticeable on surfaces with eaves or other overhangs that show a drastic difference in color between areas that have constant exposure to the sun and those that are shaded.

Ultraviolet light breaks down binders that act as the hard layer of protection. Once the binder is weakened, pigments are exposed and will show signs of fading. While a chalky residue may be unsightly, it is actually a good indicator that your home is now exposed to not only the sun but other elements that can begin to cause damage. It is always recommended that you schedule a home consultation at the first signs of paint fading to prevent any damage to your home’s surfaces.

Can Paint Prep Help Lessen Fading?

The level of importance of preparing your surfaces to be painted cannot be overstated. The work to remove old paint, sand, repair, clean, and dry your exterior before a brush hits the paint is crucial to the overall performance of your new paint. Without a properly prepared surface, your painting project may not be as successful at protecting your home and making it look as beautiful as it should.

As the paint dries, it must adhere to the surfaces for best results. Specific weather conditions like temperature and relative humidity must be considered when painting to ensure the paint adheres properly and is applied at optimal thickness so it does the job of properly protecting your home. Skilled professional painters know how to apply the proper thickness levels so your paint dries evenly and leaves your home with maximum curb appeal.

Fading paint is always a sign that it is time for an update. The decision to paint your home is a good and easy choice, but finding the right paint and professional to apply the paint is essential to getting the best finish possible. At Flying Colors Painting, our professionals take the proper steps to prepare your surfaces and treat them with care. Our skilled team is licensed, trained, and excited to work with you! To schedule a free estimate, contact us today.