Why Paint Chips on Home Exteriors—and What You Can Do About It

Why Paint Chips on Home Exteriors—and What You Can Do About It

A fresh coat of paint does wonders for a home’s curb appeal, but over time, even the best paint job can start to show signs of wear. One of the most common issues homeowners face is chipping paint on the exterior of their home. But why does this happen, and more importantly, what can be done to prevent or fix it?

Why Exterior Paint Chips

Paint chipping is more than just an eyesore—it’s a signal that something is going on beneath the surface. Here are the most common culprits:

1. Weather and Sun Exposure

Your home’s exterior takes a beating from the elements. Rain, snow, high humidity, and strong UV rays all take their toll on paint. Over time, moisture can seep beneath the surface, causing paint to bubble and eventually peel or chip. UV rays from the sun can also cause paint to dry out, fade, and become brittle.

2. Poor Surface Preparation

If the surface wasn't properly cleaned, sanded, or primed before painting, the paint won’t adhere well. Dirt, mildew, and old, flaking paint create a weak foundation, and the new paint may start to peel sooner than expected.

3. Inferior Paint or Incorrect Paint Type

Using low-quality paint or the wrong type of paint for the surface or climate can lead to premature chipping. For example, using interior paint outdoors, or applying latex over oil-based paint without proper prep, can cause adhesion issues.

4. Moisture Problems

If moisture is trapped behind the siding or coming from the inside (like from poor ventilation), it can push through the paint, causing it to lift and chip. This is particularly common around gutters, windows, and soffits.

5. Aging Paint

Even the best paint job has a lifespan. Most exterior paint jobs last 5–10 years depending on the climate, the surface, and the paint used. After a while, paint simply breaks down and starts to deteriorate.

What You Can Do About It

The good news is, chipping paint doesn’t mean you have to live with a shabby-looking house—or repaint every few years. Here are a few steps to protect your investment and restore your home’s exterior:

✅ Inspect and Identify the Cause

Before repainting, it’s important to determine why the paint is chipping. Look for signs of moisture, inspect caulking around windows and doors, and check your gutters for clogs or leaks.

✅ Thorough Surface Preparation

This is arguably the most important step in any paint job. Power washing, scraping off loose paint, sanding rough spots, and applying a high-quality primer ensure the new paint will stick and last.

✅ Use High-Quality Exterior Paint

Always choose a premium, weather-resistant exterior paint designed for your specific surface—whether it’s wood, stucco, brick, or fiber cement. Look for paint with UV protection and mildew resistance if you live in a high-sun or humid area.

✅ Repair or Replace Damaged Areas

Fix any rotting wood, cracked stucco, or damaged siding before painting. Addressing the root issues prevents paint from failing again in the same spot.

✅ Maintain the Exterior

Regularly clean your exterior, keep gutters clear, and touch up any small chips before they spread. A little maintenance goes a long way in prolonging the life of your paint.

When to Call a Professional

If the chipping is widespread, or if you're unsure about the underlying cause, it might be time to call in a professional painting company. Here at XL Painting, we take pride in using high-quality paint products from Sherwin-Williams. We see first-hand the difference good paint can make in the lifetime of a paint project. We also take the time to properly prepare all surfaces and repair damaged areas before painting. If your home or business is in need of a paint project, give us a call for a free estimate!