Look at the finish first.

Fading, peeling or flaking paint, exposed surfaces and deteriorating caulk are reasons to arrange an assessment. Different sides of a home can weather differently, so examine more than the front facade.

Separate painting from repair.

A new coat will not resolve an underlying moisture or structural problem. If surfaces are soft, damaged or repeatedly losing paint, discuss repairs and the source of the damage before a repaint.

Ask what the preparation includes.

Your written scope should identify cleaning, scraping, sanding, priming, caulking and any agreed repairs. Which steps are needed depends on the surface and its condition.

Plan the project, not just the color.

Access, weather, material requirements and scheduling all matter. Ask how the coating will be selected and how the work will be sequenced around your property.

Get a scope for your actual home.

Share the location, surfaces and areas you are concerned about. A site visit may be needed before the team can provide an accurate estimate.

Prepared by Austin’s Affordable Painting for project-planning purposes. This guide helps you plan a project; it does not replace a property inspection or guarantee a coating lifespan.

Discuss an exterior project