Learn · Guide
when to repaint your house.
Your walls aren’t shouting for attention, but they are telling you something. Here is how to read the signs before small problems become big bills.
- LicensedNSW 450329C
- $20MPublic liability insured
- 5 yearsWorkmanship warranty
- 90Years combined experience
the short answer.
- Interior paint commonly needs refreshing every 5 to 10 years.
- Exterior paint commonly lasts 7 to 10 years, less on timber and sun-baked walls.
- Peeling, cracking, stains and mould are the signs not to wait.
- Repainting early is cheaper than repairing later.
signs inside your home.
- Marks and scuffs that no longer wipe off, especially in hallways and around switches.
- Yellowing or dull, tired colour, especially on white walls and ceilings.
- Cracks, nail pops and small holes from picture hooks and shelves.
- Stains from leaks. Fix the cause first, then repaint.
- Mould or flaking paint in bathrooms and laundries.
- A colour you have simply stopped liking.
signs outside.
- Chalky paint that leaves a powder on your hand.
- Peeling, flaking or blistering, especially around windows, eaves and the base of walls.
- Cracked paint and open gaps along joins and trims.
- Faded, patchy colour.
- Bare timber showing through.
- Mould or mildew that keeps coming back.
Our guide on how long exterior paint lasts has typical lifespans by surface.
how often should you repaint?
| Area | Typical timing |
|---|---|
| Living areas and bedrooms | Every 5 to 10 years |
| Kitchens, bathrooms and laundries | Every 5 to 7 years |
| Busy family homes and rentals | Every 3 to 5 years |
| Exterior walls | Every 7 to 10 years |
| Timber, trims and sun-exposed doors | Every 5 to 8 years |
The paint on your walls matters more than the date on your calendar. If it still looks good and cleans well, it can wait.
the cost of waiting.
Paint is a protective coat as well as a colour. Once it fails, water reaches timber, render and plaster. Then the job is no longer a repaint. It’s a repair, then a repaint.
Small repairs and a fresh coat now cost far less than rotten fascia, cracked render or damaged ceilings later.
planning to sell or rent?
Fresh paint is one of the least expensive ways to help a home show well. Read our guide to painting before you sell, or ask about a small Patch and Prep or Painter for a Day package.
if your home was built before 1970.
Do not dry sand or scrape old paint. It may contain lead. Read our guide to lead paint first.
not sure if it is time?
We will tell you honestly. If the paint is sound and you can wait, we will say so. Get a free quote.
common questions.
How often should I repaint my house in Sydney?
Walls inside commonly every 5 to 10 years. The exterior commonly every 7 to 10 years, and sooner on timber and sun-baked walls.
Can I just touch up instead of repainting?
Sometimes. Fading and wear mean new paint can look different from the paint beside it. For a small mark, touch up. For a whole wall, repaint the wall.
Is it better to repaint inside or outside first?
Outside protects the house, so do it first if the paint is failing. Inside is a comfort and appearance choice, and can happen any time.
What if I see peeling paint?
Act soon. Peeling paint means water can get in. Do not scrape it yourself if your home was built before 1970.
Do I need to repaint before selling?
Not always. We can tell you which rooms and areas are worth doing for a sale, and which are not.
getting a quote is easy.
Tell us about your job
Send your contact details and a short description of the job by form or phone.
We contact you within 24 hours
We book a time to come out for your complimentary quote. No obligation attached.
We visit and measure
We come out, measure up and check the surfaces, so your written price is accurate.
Tell us about your project.
Tell us about the job. We will contact you within 24 hours to book your complimentary quote.
Or call us now0410 585 913