Why trusted clients in Oakland, Piedmont, Montclair, and the East Bay call us back every 5–10 years — not because paint failed, but because it worked exactly as it should This exterior repaint project with Steve is a perfect example of how proper preparation, honest timelines, and long-term maintenance planning make all the difference. We originally painted this home over eight years ago, and recently Steve called us back to repaint the rear and most weather-exposed side of the house — the area that takes the hardest hit from sun, wind, and moisture. This is not a failure — it’s proof of a paint system doing its job. In the East Bay, especially in Oakland, Piedmont, Montclair, Diamond District, and coastal areas, the southwest-facing sides of homes experience intense sun exposure year-round. Over time, UV rays slowly break down even the best coatings. When applied correctly, exterior paint is not permanent — it’s protective, and that protection needs renewal. What We Tell Our Clients — Honestly • High sun exposure areas: repaint every 5–7 years • Moderately protected areas: repaint every 8–10 years • Well-shaded areas: can last 12–15 years with proper care That’s why many of our long-term clients repaint their homes in phases, starting with the most weathered sides and maintaining protected areas later. This approach saves money, extends the life of the structure, and keeps the home protected year-round. Maintenance Matters More Than People Think We strongly recommend: • Whole-house pressure washing every 3–5 years • Mold and mildew treatment, especially under eaves and shaded areas These steps prevent moisture from getting trapped between siding, plywood, eaves, and roofing systems — protecting not just the paint, but your home’s structure and attic space. Repainting Is Not the Same as Restoring A professional repaint isn’t just about color — it’s about choosing the right coating for the right surface: • Stucco vs. wood siding • Breathable, waterproof exterior coatings • Thicker, more durable trim paints to protect wood • UV-resistant systems for darker colors • Flexible coatings that move with the home Interior and exterior paints today offer incredible technology — washable, mold-resistant, moisture-resistant, urethane-enriched, enamel, epoxy, and specialty coatings. But none of that matters if the contractor doesn’t understand when, where, and why to use them. Why Clients Call Us Back Clients don’t call us back because the paint failed — they call us back because: • We set realistic expectations • We explain how long paint should last • We follow proven preparation processes • We care about long-term results, not shortcuts Repainting is not about doing the job again — it’s about maintaining the integrity of your home with the right strategy, materials, and experience. If you’re deciding between repainting, restoring, or painting for the first time, choosing a company that understands coatings, exposure, and longevity makes all the difference.