If you live in Salt Lake City, you've probably noticed how the weather can shift from hot and dry to snowy and freezing — sometimes in the same week. That climate takes a toll on your home, especially the outside. One of the best ways to protect your home and keep it looking sharp is by keeping up with exterior painting. 

But how often should you paint the outside of your house?

There's no one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on your kind of siding, the weather, how well the last paint job was done, and even your chosen color. In this guide, we'll break down what you need to know to keep your home's exterior in good shape — and when it might be time for a fresh coat.

How Often Should You Paint Your Home's Exterior?

In Salt Lake City, most homes must have their exterior painted every 5 to 10 years, depending on several factors. The type of siding your home has plays a significant role — for example, wood siding may need repainting every 3 to 7 years, while materials like fiber cement can last up to 15 years. 

The weather in Salt Lake City, with its hot summers and snowy winters, can cause paint to fade, crack, or peel faster, especially on homes that get a lot of direct sunlight or moisture. 

When Is the Right Time to Repaint Your Home's Exterior in Salt Lake City?

1. The Type of Siding Matters

The material your home is made of significantly affects how long the paint lasts. Some materials absorb paint better and hold it longer; others might need more frequent touch-ups.

  • Wood siding tends to need repainting every 3 to 7 years. It's more vulnerable to moisture and sun damage.
  • Aluminum siding can last 5 to 10 years before needing a new coat.
  • Stucco surfaces typically need painting every 5 to 6 years.
  • Fiber cement siding may last up to 15 years, depending on the paint quality.
  • Brick (painted) usually needs touch-ups or repainting every 7 to 10 years.

Salt Lake City's seasonal changes can shorten these timeframes, especially if the paint is of lower quality or was poorly applied.

2. Weather in Salt Lake City Plays a Big Role

The local climate is a significant factor in paint durability. Salt Lake City experiences hot, dry summers and snowy winters. These extremes can cause paint to expand, crack, and fade faster than in milder climates.

Sun exposure on the south-facing side of your home can lead to faster fading. Snow and ice in winter can cause moisture damage, especially if the paint is aging or peeling. Homes exposed to wind and dust may also see wear and tear sooner.

This is why top-rated exterior home painting services in Salt Lake City often suggest inspecting your home every couple of years, even if repainting isn't immediately necessary.

3. How Well the Last Paint Job Was Done

Not all paint jobs are the same. If the last job used low-grade paint or skipped proper surface prep, the paint likely won't last as long.

Professional painters usually prep surfaces by cleaning them, scraping off old paint, priming bare areas, and using weather-resistant paint. If these steps were missed, even good paint can fail in just a few years.

A proper exterior paint job should give you a minimum of 5 years on most surfaces, but high-quality work can last much longer, especially when done by experienced local painters.

4. Signs It's Time to Repaint

Certain signs can tell you it's time to repaint even if you're within the “expected” time frame. Watch for these issues:

  • Peeling or cracking paint – lets moisture into the material, which can cause damage.
  • Fading or chalky finish – a sign the paint is breaking down due to UV rays.
  • Bubbling or blistering – can mean trapped moisture.
  • Bare spots or worn edges – often show up around windows, doors, or baseboards.

These signs mean the protective layer is weakening, and it's best to repaint before more significant problems arise.

5. Color Choice and How You Care for It

Darker paint colors fade faster in sunlight, especially in areas with intense UV exposure like Salt Lake City. Lighter colors may last longer and show less wear over time.

Also, how you care for your home affects the life of the paint. Washing your siding once a year, trimming trees and bushes, and fixing gutters all help your paint job last longer.

Some homeowners choose touch-up painting instead of complete repaints if only small areas are affected. This can extend the life of your current coat without the cost of a complete paint job.

Bottom Line

Painting your home's exterior isn't just about looks — it's about protection. In Salt Lake City, where weather conditions can be challenging, keeping up with paint maintenance is essential. Most homes need repainting every 5 to 10 years, depending on the siding, sun exposure, and the quality of the last paint job.

Don't wait until you see peeling paint or exposed siding. Catching the signs early and working with a trusted local company can save you time and money. Lumos Painting Co. is a reliable choice if you're ready to refresh your home or just want an expert opinion. They understand Salt Lake City homes' unique needs and offer professional exterior painting services you can count on.