If you serve on an HOA board or manage a residential community, you already know there’s no shortage of things to keep track of; landscaping, pest control, siding that refuses to stop warping, and yes, the ever-looming question: “When do we need to repaint?”

While repainting might not top your list of exciting HOA projects (unless you’re a secret Sherwin-Williams enthusiast), it’s one of the most important. A good exterior paint job isn’t just about looking sharp for the annual barbecue, it’s about protecting the building envelope, preventing expensive repairs, and keeping property values healthy.

So how often should an HOA schedule a repaint? Let’s break it down.

The Rule of Thumb: Every 5 to 10 Years

In general, most HOAs should plan on repainting every 5 to 10 years. That’s a wide range, we know, but it depends on several key factors like building material, climate exposure, and maintenance practices.

Here’s a quick cheat sheet:

• Stucco: Usually needs repainting every 5 to 7 years.
  

• Wood siding: Closer to 3 to 7 years depending on weather and upkeep.
  

• Fiber cement: Can last 10 to 15 years with high-quality paint and good prep.
  

• Brick (painted): Can go 8 to 12 years before touch-ups are needed.

Factors That Affect Repainting Frequency

While the “every 5 to 10 years” rule is a good starting point, the truth is, it’s not one-size-fits-all. Some buildings hold their color like a champ; others seem to start fading the moment the paint dries. What gives?

Turns out, paint durability is influenced by a handful of behind-the-scenes factors that can quietly shorten (or stretch) your repainting timeline.

Climate Exposure:

Buildings that bake in full sun or endure year-round rain and humidity will wear down paint faster. If you manage properties in the Mid-Atlantic region (like Northern Virginia or DC), you’ve got a mix of intense sun, snow, and seasonal storms; all of which love to bully exterior surfaces.

Material:

Paint behaves differently depending on what it’s covering. Wood absorbs moisture and expands/contracts, while stucco can crack or flake. Fiber cement is more stable, but still needs occasional love.

Color Choices:

Yes, even your favorite “Modern Slate Gray” has a lifespan. Dark colors fade faster in sunlight, while lighter tones tend to last longer and hide fading better. Think of it like sunscreen for your walls.

Previous Paint Job:

If your last job used bargain-bin paint or skipped the prep (yes, that includes using all in one paint and “primer”), you’ll be repainting sooner. Quality paint + professional prep = longer-lasting results.

Ongoing Maintenance:

Routine power washing, caulking, and minor repairs can extend the life of your paint job.

Why It Pays to Stay Ahead

Delaying repainting doesn’t save money, it just redistributes it into the “major repairs” fund. Exterior paint isn’t just cosmetic; it’s a first line of defense against water intrusion, rot, pests, and mold. A well-maintained property also maintains higher resale values, and let’s be honest, no one wants to be the “that building” in the neighborhood.

Plus, if your HOA’s charter includes aesthetic standards, regular repainting helps keep things consistent and tidy. You don’t want half the homes looking brand-new while the others rock the vintage fade look.

Telltale Signs It’s Time to Repaint

Still not sure if it’s time to schedule a repaint? Keep an eye out for these common clues:

• Fading or chalking (a powdery residue when you touch the surface)
  

• Peeling or bubbling paint
  

• Cracks in siding or stucco
  

• Mildew or dark streaks
  

• Uneven appearance between different building exposures
  

If multiple buildings are showing these symptoms, it’s a clear signal the community is due for some color TLC. The sooner you catch the symptoms, the easier (and cheaper) it is to address.

Your Takeaway?

Repainting may not be the flashiest HOA project, but it’s one of the most impactful. When done right and on schedule, it protects your investment, enhances community pride, and saves money in the long run.

Williams Professional Painting: Maintenance Plans Make a Difference

Want to extend the time between full-scale repaints? We get it, no one’s lining up to repaint entire buildings more often than necessary. The good news is, a little maintenance goes a long way.

A smart maintenance plan should include:

• Annual inspections to spot early signs of paint failure, caulk cracks, or damage.
  

• Targeted touch-ups and caulking to keep everything sealed and looking uniform.
  

• Gentle power washing to remove dirt, mildew, and pollutants that break down paint over time.
  

At Williams Professional Painting, we offer HOA maintenance programs designed to keep your buildings in top shape and your repainting schedule predictable. Because let’s face it: surprises are great for birthdays, not budgets.