The Journal · ExteriorExterior painting, explained.
Michigan is hard on paint. Wind off Lake St. Clair, humid summers and freeze–thaw winters find every open joint and every shortcut. These guides cover when to paint, why paint fails, how different surfaces should be handled and how to make a good exterior last.
10 guides
When to paint your home’s exterior in Michigan
Late spring through early fall, on dry days with mild nights. Here’s how to read the temperature, dew point and forecast like a painter, and what each Michigan month tends to offer.
Read the guideHow long does exterior paint last in Michigan?
There’s no single number, but there are clear patterns. Here’s what decides how long paint lasts on a Michigan house, what wears it out early, and how to stretch it.
Read the guideSigns it’s time to repaint your home’s exterior
A practical walk-around for reading what your paint is telling you, and for sorting the cosmetic from the urgent before another Michigan winter.
Read the guideWhy exterior paint peels — and how to stop it
Peeling paint is a symptom. Here’s how to read the pattern, find the cause, and make sure the next coat stays put.
Read the guidePainting aluminum siding: what Michigan homeowners should know
Aluminum siding on post-war homes takes paint well, as long as the chalky surface comes off first. Here’s what the job involves and how to make it last.
Read the guideShould you paint brick? Pros, cons and alternatives to consider
Painted brick can look striking, but it’s close to permanent and changes how the wall handles moisture. Here’s how to decide, and what to try instead.
Read the guideMildew on siding: how to identify, clean and prevent it before you paint
Painting over mildew doesn’t kill it; it grows right through the new finish. Here’s how to spot it, clean it off safely and keep it from coming back.
Read the guideHow to paint a front door: color, sheen and a finish that lasts
A front door gets touched, slammed and looked at every day. Here’s how to choose its color and sheen, and how to paint it so the finish lasts.
Read the guideHow to paint a porch: floors, ceilings, columns and railings
Floors, ceilings, columns, railings and steps each wear out in their own way. Here’s how to prep and paint every part of a porch so the finish holds up.
Read the guideExterior paint maintenance: a seasonal checklist for Michigan homes
Paint lasts longer on a house that gets checked a few times a year. Here’s what to look for each season in Michigan, what you can handle yourself, and when to call a painter.
Read the guideLet’s talk about your home.
Tell us a little about the project and we’ll be in touch to talk it through and set a time to see it.