Painting

Exterior Painting in Oregon's Willamette Valley

Exterior paint is your siding's first defense against Oregon's wet season. We prep thoroughly so the finish lasts.

Painters on a lift painting the exterior of a house, exterior painting in Oregon

Painting the outside of a house in western Oregon is a race against moisture. Siding stays damp for months, mildew grows in shaded spots and paint applied over dirt, loose paint or damp wood will peel within a couple of seasons. The trick is a good prep routine and a smart schedule.

Our approach starts with washing the exterior to remove mildew and dirt, then scraping failing paint, sanding rough spots, replacing rotted boards, caulking joints and priming bare wood. Only then does paint go on, in two coats, with trim and doors finished for a crisp edge. Two-story homes call for ladders, scaffolds or lifts, and we plan the equipment before the day we start.

Timing matters. Most exterior paints specify minimum surface and air temperatures and need dry surfaces, which is why late spring through early fall is busy season. If you are thinking about repainting this year, planning early gives you the best choice of dates.

Signs your exterior needs paint

Paint is peeling, bubbling or flaking, especially on south-facing walls and trim
Chalky residue rubs off on your hand, a sign the paint binder is breaking down
Mildew or algae keep returning to north-side walls
Caulk lines have cracked and bare wood shows at joints and windows
You are about to list the house and want curb appeal

How we paint an exterior

Wash and inspectWe clean the surfaces and look for rot, failed caulk and areas where moisture is getting in.
Repair and prepLoose paint is scraped, bad boards are replaced, joints are caulked and bare wood is sanded and spot-primed.
Prime and paintTwo coats of exterior paint go on siding, trim and doors, with attention to edges and drip lines.
Detail and clean upWe touch up, remove masking and tape and clear the site of drop cloths and debris.

What determines the cost of exterior painting

A fair quote depends on what the surfaces need before paint. These are the key variables.

Size and storiesTwo-story homes need taller equipment and more time.

Surface conditionPeeling paint and damaged wood require more scraping, repairs and priming.

Trim, doors and detailLots of windows, trim, shutters and railings add cutting-in work.

Paint and primer qualityBetter products cost more up front and often hold up longer.

Siding typeLap siding, board-and-batten and stucco each need different techniques.

Why choose Frank General Contractor for exterior painting

As builders, we repair rotted siding and trim before painting instead of covering it
Washing, scraping and priming get real time, because prep is what makes paint last
We plan around the weather and tell you honestly when conditions are not right

We paint exteriors in Gervais, Salem, Portland and surrounding areas. Start with pressure washing or any needed siding repair.

Questions about exterior painting

How often should I repaint the outside of my house?

Many exteriors need repainting every 7 to 12 years, depending on paint quality, sun exposure and how well prep was done. In wet, shaded locations paint can wear sooner.

When is the best time to paint the exterior in Oregon?

Late spring through early fall, when daytime temperatures are in the product's range and surfaces stay dry. We schedule around forecasts to avoid rain before paint cures.

Can you paint over mildew?

No. Mildew must be cleaned off before painting or it will come through the new coat and spread. We wash and treat affected areas first.

Do you repair rotted trim before painting?

Yes. Painting over rot only hides the problem. We replace damaged boards and trim so the new paint has a sound surface.

How long does an exterior paint job take?

Many single-story houses take about a week, including washing, prep and two coats, depending on size and weather.