How Often Should You Paint Your Home’s Exterior in Bothell’s Climate?

If you’re a homeowner in Bothell, you’ve likely noticed how quickly the weather here can take a toll on your home’s exterior. Between the Pacific Northwest’s frequent rain, cloudy winters, and the occasional sunny summer stretch, your paint isn’t just for looks—it’s your home’s first line of defense against the elements. But how often should you repaint to keep your home protected and looking its best?

The answer depends on a few factors: the material of your exterior, the type of paint used last time, how well the surface was prepped, and of course, Bothell’s unique weather patterns. On average, most homes in this area need a new coat of paint every 5 to 10 years, but let’s break it down a little more specifically.

If your home has wood siding, expect to repaint every 5 to 7 years. Wood is beautiful but vulnerable to moisture, especially in a damp climate like ours. Regular maintenance and high-quality, mildew-resistant paint can help extend its life, but keeping an eye out for peeling or fading is key.

Aluminum siding tends to last a bit longer, generally needing a refresh every 7 to 10 years. While it doesn’t absorb moisture like wood, it can fade significantly over time, especially on areas exposed to direct sunlight, like the south or west-facing sides of your home.

Stucco, which some Bothell homes use for a more textured look, holds paint well but still requires upkeep every 6 to 10 years, depending on the finish and exposure. Paint not only keeps stucco looking fresh—it helps seal hairline cracks that can lead to water infiltration.

Painted brick is one of the most durable options and can go 10 to 15 years before it needs repainting. However, once you’ve painted brick, you’re committed—repainting becomes a necessity to keep it sealed and prevent peeling or uneven wear.

So how do you know when it’s time to repaint? Here are the common warning signs to look for:

• Peeling or flaking paint, especially near the base of the home or under eaves
• Faded or chalky surfaces, caused by UV damage over time
• Cracking or bubbling, which could indicate trapped moisture
• Dark stains or mildew, common in shaded areas exposed to rain or sprinkler overspray

Bothell’s climate plays a major role in how quickly these symptoms show up. Constant moisture, heavy tree cover, and mild winters create the perfect conditions for mildew, wood rot, and paint breakdown. Homes that get more sunlight may see fading faster, while those tucked into forested lots might battle moss and mold.

When planning your next paint job, timing matters. The best seasons for exterior painting in Bothell are typically late spring through early fall, when the weather is dry and warm enough for paint to cure properly. Trying to paint during a cold snap or wet week can lead to poor adhesion and a shorter lifespan for your paint job.

It’s also worth investing in quality paint and proper prep work. A great paint job starts long before the first stroke of color—cleaning the surface, scraping off old paint, repairing minor damage, and applying a primer where needed will all impact how well the new paint holds up. Using professional-grade paint with UV protection and mildew resistance can extend the time between repaints by several years.

If you’re unsure whether it’s time to repaint, walking around your home and inspecting key areas like window trim, fascia boards, and siding joints can be revealing. A fresh coat of paint doesn’t just protect—it elevates curb appeal, preserves your property’s value, and can give your home an entirely new look without a full renovation.

In Bothell, where the beauty of the outdoors is a huge part of the lifestyle, taking care of your home’s exterior is more than a cosmetic decision—it’s about longevity and pride of ownership. Regular painting is one of the most effective ways to preserve the life and integrity of your home in this ever-changing climate.