
What Do I Need to Paint My House Exterior: Essential Tips
July 6, 2023
Breaking Down Costs: How Much to Paint My House?
August 7, 2023Does dark exterior paint fade? It’s a question many homeowners ponder when choosing their exterior color. Dark colors can add a dramatic and sophisticated touch to home exteriors, but the potential for fading may give some people pause.
In this blog post, we’ll delve into what causes dark exterior paint to fade and how you can prevent it. We’ll explore factors such as the quality of the paint, exposure to exterior elements, and the amount of tint dye added to create darker shades.
You’ll also discover additional steps you can take to protect your dark paint job from fading over time. Furthermore, we’ll discuss special considerations when painting with darker colors on exteriors and why opting for professional painters might be beneficial in ensuring a stable color outcome.
Last but not least, we will provide insight into the costs associated with hiring professionals for your exterior painting project. So if you’re contemplating whether or not dark exterior paint fades – stay tuned!
Table of Contents:
- Does Dark Exterior Paint Fade?
- What Causes Dark Exterior Paint to Fade?
- How Can I Prevent Dark Exterior Paint from Fading?
- Is There Anything Else I Can Do To Protect My Dark Exterior Paint?
- Special Considerations for Painting Dark Colors on Exteriors
- Benefits of Hiring Professional Painters for Your Exterior Painting Project
- How Much Does It Cost To Hire Professional Painters For An Exterior Painting Project?
- FAQs in Relation to Does Dark Exterior Paint Fade
- Conclusion
1. Does Dark Exterior Paint Fade?
Yes, dark exterior paint can fade over time. Dark colors show wear more than light ones because they absorb more heat and UV rays. It’s like they’re sunbathing all day.
The quality of the paint matters too. Cheap paint breaks down faster when exposed to harsh weather. Don’t skimp on quality, people.
- Pigment: The color component in paint that absorbs light and gives it its hue.
- Binder: A substance that holds the pigment particles together. It’s like the glue that keeps the color on your walls.
Fading isn’t just about looks. It means your home’s protection is fading too. Moisture damage and other hazards can sneak in. Yikes.
For top-notch protection and curb appeal, hire professional painters like us at ESP Painting. We’re experts in interior and exterior house painting in Portland, Oregon. We’ll make your home look fabulous and last for ages.
2. What Causes Dark Exterior Paint to Fade?
The dark exterior paint, while striking and bold, can fade over time. This is mainly due to exposure to the elements. But what exactly causes this fading? Let’s dive into the culprits.
Sunlight and UV Rays
The sun’s UV rays are like a paint party pooper, breaking down the chemical bonds in dark exterior paint and making it lose its vibrant color.
Moisture and Humidity
Water, whether from rain or humidity, can sneak into the microscopic cracks of your painted surface and mess with your dark paint’s mojo, causing it to fade.
Temperature Fluctuations
Extreme weather changes can make your home’s exterior go through a rollercoaster of contraction and expansion. This movement can lead to cracks and peeling, exposing more of your dark pigments and resulting in noticeable fading.
To keep your house looking fly for years, choose high-quality paints with UV-resistant finishes and other fancy features. Trust us; your exteriors will thank you.
3. How Can I Prevent Dark Exterior Paint from Fading?
Don’t let your dark exterior paint job fade away. Here are some tips to keep it looking fresh:
- Choose High-Quality Paint: Invest in top-notch, UV-resistant paints that can withstand the sun’s harsh rays.
- Maintain Regularly: Give your painted surfaces some TLC by washing and re-coating them regularly. It’s like a spa day for your house.
For better protection from UV rays and to enhance the appearance of your painted surfaces, consider opting for glossy finishes. Glossy finishes reflect more light and provide better protection against UV rays. Check out this article on Bob Vila’s website for more info.
If you’re not up for the task or simply don’t have the time, leave it to the pros like us at ESP Painting. We’ve got the skills and top-grade materials to make your exterior paint job last and look fabulous.
4. Is There Anything Else I Can Do To Protect My Dark Exterior Paint?
Absolutely. You could give your dark exterior paint an additional layer of protection by utilizing a sealant or primer before you start the actual painting. This can be achieved by applying a sealant or primer before the actual painting begins.
Sealants
A sealant is like a superhero cape for your paint, protecting it from moisture and those pesky UV rays that love to fade colors. Different sealants are available for different surfaces, so choose wisely.
Primers
Think of a primer as the foundation for your paint job. It creates a smooth surface for the paint to stick to, making it last longer and withstand the elements like a champ.
To make the most of these protective measures:
- Select a sealant or primer that plays well with your chosen paint.
- Follow the instructions from the manufacturer when applying these products.
- If you’re unsure about anything, consult professional painters like us at ESP Painting. We know our stuff.
By adding sealants and primers to your dark exterior paint, you’re not only protecting it from fading but also extending its lifespan. That means more money saved in the long run.
5. Special Considerations for Painting Dark Colors on Exteriors
When painting exteriors with dark colors, choose high-quality, UV-resistant paint to prevent fading. Check out this guide for more info.
Prepping the Surface
Clean off dirt and grime, scrape away old paint, and create a smooth surface for painting.
The Importance of Primer
Use primer when switching from a lighter color to a darker one for even coverage and to prevent bleed-through. Learn more about when to use primer here.
To sum up: Choose quality paint, prep the surface, consider primer, and monitor for wear and tear. Your chosen hue will stay vibrant and last longer.
6. Benefits of Hiring Professional Painters for Your Exterior Painting Project
Save time, money, and effort by hiring professional painters for your exterior painting project. Here’s why it’s worth considering:
- Expertise: Professional painters know their stuff. They’ll choose the right paint for your surfaces and conditions, taking into account factors like climate and sun exposure.
- Quality Results: Leave it to the pros for top-notch work. They have the skills, precision techniques, and access to high-quality materials like UV-resistant paints.
- Saves Time & Effort: Don’t waste your precious time on a big painting project. Let the professionals handle everything from prep work to clean up.
- Detailed Surface Preparation: Non-professionals often overlook this step, but it’s crucial for a successful paint job. Properly prepping the surface ensures better adhesion and durability.
On top of these advantages, hiring professional painters also gives you peace of mind knowing they’re insured against accidents or damages. If you’re planning an exterior painting project in the Portland, Oregon, area, consider reaching out to ESP Painting. At ESP Painting, we offer our customers a wealth of knowledge and excellent customer service to guarantee they are completely satisfied with the outcome.
7. How Much Does It Cost To Hire Professional Painters For An Exterior Painting Project?
The cost of hiring professional painters for an exterior painting project can vary a lot. It depends on factors like the size of your project and the type of materials used. The cost of the project is determined by how you choose to proceed, much like in a choose-your-own-adventure book.
Professional painters usually charge an hourly rate plus the cost of materials. The greater the scope of your project, the more it will cost in both time and money. It’s like hiring a personal artist to transform your home into a masterpiece.
But wait, there’s more. You might also have to pay extra for prep work like power washing or scraping off old paint. If you’re dealing with difficult-to-reach spots, it could cost ya some extra dough for specific gear. It’s like a bonus level in the game of home improvement.
So, to get an idea of how much you should budget, it’s best to request an estimate from ESP Painting. They’ll give you a detailed quote with all the potential costs upfront. No hidden fees, just pure transparency.
- Size: Bigger homes mean more painting, which means more money. It’s like paying for a supersized meal at a fancy restaurant.
- Type & Quality Of Materials: High-quality paints may cost more, but they last longer and protect against fading. It’s like investing in a sunscreen that never lets you down.
- Complexity Of The Job: If your project involves intricate details or hard-to-reach areas, be prepared to pay extra. It’s like hiring a contortionist painter.
So, when planning your budget, remember: hiring professional painters like ESP Painting is a smart investment. It’s like giving your home a makeover that will make your neighbors jealous.
Key Takeaway:
Hiring professional painters for an exterior painting project can vary in cost depending on factors like the size of the project, the type and quality of materials used, and the complexity of the job. It’s important to budget accordingly by requesting a detailed quote upfront from ESP Painting to avoid any hidden fees. Investing in high-quality paints can help protect against fading and ensure longer-lasting results, making it a smart investment for your home makeover.
FAQs in Relation to Does Dark Exterior Paint Fade
1. Personal opinions or experiences – My totally biased and completely subjective point of view.
2. Controversial topics such as politics, religion, etc. – The stuff that starts arguments at family dinners.
3. Unverified information or assumptions – The things I just made up but sound totally legit.
Conclusion
Dark exterior paint can fade over time due to sunlight and weather conditions but fear not; there are ways to prevent or minimize this fading!
First, make sure to use high-quality paint that is specifically formulated for exteriors. This will help the color stay vibrant for longer.
Second, consider applying a protective clear coat over the paint. This extra layer will act as a shield against the elements and help preserve the color.
Third, don’t forget to maintain the painted surface regularly. This means cleaning it gently and avoiding harsh chemicals that could strip away the paint.
And finally, if you’re not confident in your painting skills, it’s worth hiring professional painters who have experience with dark colors. They’ll know all the tricks of the trade to ensure a long-lasting and fade-resistant finish.

Jeff Sommers is a vibrant and experienced professional, having been at the helm of ESP Painting, Inc. for 27 remarkable years. As President, he has become an esteemed leader in the Commercial & Residential Construction industry in Oregon, United States. His experience has seen him gain valuable insight and knowledge, making him an invaluable asset to ESP Painting and its customers. With a bubbly personality and upbeat attitude, Jeff always looks ahead to the future as he continues his leadership journey toward success.