When is it too late to paint the exterior of my house?

September 22, 2024
Professional Advice

If you’re wondering when the best time to paint the exterior of your house is, you’re not alone. The painting season in Portland usually spans from late spring through early fall, but once cooler temperatures and rain settle in, it’s time to think carefully about whether it’s too late to get the job done. Let’s break down the factors that determine the ideal window… and when you might be cutting it close…

Best Time of Year to Paint the Exterior

The best time of year for painting the exterior of your home typically falls between May and early October. This range offers the right balance of mild temperatures and dry conditions, which are crucial for paint to adhere properly and cure. As we approach October, though, Portland’s rainy season begins to roll in, increasing the likelihood of moisture-related issues that can jeopardize your project.

So, if you’re aiming to get your house painted this year, try to wrap up before mid – late October at the latest.

When It’s Too Late: What to Consider

While it’s tempting to push painting into the later months, doing so can cause complications. Here are some things to consider:

Moisture and Temperature Levels: One of the biggest challenges of late-season painting is moisture. If it’s too humid or rainy, moisture can get trapped in the surface you’re painting, which may cause peeling or blistering in the near future. However, the presence of rain does not mean that we cannot paint at all. In cooler and wetter months, we use a paint that dries quickly, has excellent moisture resistance, and can be applied as cool as 35 degrees Fahrenheit.
Shorter Days: As fall progresses, the days get shorter. This means less daylight for painting and longer drying times due to cooler temperatures. This can extend your project, potentially leading to incomplete work before the rain starts.

For more detailed guidance on the ideal temperatures for exterior painting, check out our post on Best Outdoor Temperature & Weather for Exterior Painting in Portland.

Rare sighting of a Pearl Painters team member working outside in December. The holiday season is definitely too late in the year for exterior house painting!

Late-Season Painting by Material

Different exterior materials handle late-season conditions in varying ways. If you’re nearing the end of the season, the material of your home’s exterior could determine whether it’s still feasible to paint:

HardiePlank: This material is moisture-resistant and highly stable, making it a solid choice for late-season painting. It’s less likely to be affected by cooler, wetter conditions.
Cedar: While cedar is prized for its natural beauty, it’s not as stable in wet conditions. Late-season painting on cedar can lead to issues like peeling if moisture gets trapped in the wood.
Stucco & Masonry: These surfaces are more forgiving in cooler, damp conditions, as they are less prone to moisture retention.
Vinyl Siding: Vinyl doesn’t absorb moisture and remains stable despite temperature changes, making it another good option for late-season painting.

Choosing the Right Paint

When painting late in the season, it’s essential to choose high-quality, moisture-resistant paint that can handle fluctuating temperatures and potential moisture exposure. Darker colors may even work to your advantage, as they absorb more heat from the sun, which helps paint dry faster in cooler weather. On the flip side, lighter colors reflect more sunlight and can dry more slowly in the cooler months.

Monitor the Weather

If you decide to paint in October, keeping a close eye on the weather is key. Look for stretches of dry days and plan your painting around those windows. It’s also wise to finish painting earlier in the day to maximize sunlight for drying. So, while the best month to paint your home is usually to be found in late spring or early summer, if you plan carefully you can stretch into early fall.

However, trying to paint too late, especially beyond mid October, comes with significant risks, particularly in Portland’s unpredictable climate! If you’re still unsure, consult with the Pearl Painters team to help you make the best decision for your project.

We’re also booking exterior painting projects now for next year, so now is time is a great time to get in touch with our team, so you can be early on our schedule next spring.