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When Is the Best Time To Paint the Exterior of Your Home in Omaha?

July 20th, 2024 | 4 min read

By Kaylea Kuhlman

Brush & Roll Painting painter rolling white paint on exterior of home.

Exterior painting is an effective way to spruce up the home. Whether you use a similar tone or select an entirely different hue, the finished product will instantly boost the property’s curb appeal. However, with the changing seasons and unpredictable Omaha weather, it can be difficult to find the right time for such a project. Exterior painting projects can be a large investment, so it's important that your money doesn't go wasted by affects of the weather.

With nearly 30 years of experience in the Omaha exterior painting industry, at Brush & Roll Painting, we have learned the ins and outs of what makes a flawless painting project. By doing so, we have also learned some things relating to Nebraskas weather that can harm the goal of a flawless painting project.

In this article, we will discuss the factors to consider when making the final decision of when the right time is to paint the exterior of your home. By the end of this article, you'll be equipped with the right knowledge to make your decision and be confident that your investment is protected.

 

Understanding the Impact of Weather on Exterior Painting

House in the rain after being painted.

Choosing the right time for exterior painting is crucial for achieving a long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing finish. Here are key factors to consider:

1. Moisture: Paint requires at least 24 hours to cure properly. Applying a fresh coat during a rainy season risks washing the color away. Moisture can mix with the paint, causing it to run and resulting in unsightly streaks and splotches that will need to be redone. Rainy days can delay the project, as your home should be fully dried before being worked on.

2. Temperature: The temperature can significantly affect how the paint dries and cures.

  • Cold Weather: Low temperatures can prevent paint from developing a quality finish. If the drying process is too slow, loose debris and insects can stick to the surface. This not only affects the appearance but also reduces the lifespan of the paint, leading to frequent touch-ups.
  • Heat: High temperatures, particularly those above 95 degrees, cause the paint to dry too quickly. This prevents proper adhesion to the structure, potentially causing the top layer to bubble and flake, exposing the raw materials underneath to the elements.

The Best Time for Exterior Home Painting in Omaha

Brush & Roll Painting exterior painter spraying paint on upper level of exterior of Omaha home.

Typically in Omaha, painters begin exterior painting projects in April and end around November. This catches most of the Spring and Fall seasons, which can be unpredictable in Nebraska. Extremely cold, hot, or rainy days in any season will delay the project.

To get the best chances of getting your project done on time, it's recommended to plan for your project to be done in the summer. This means you likely want to choose your painting company or painter by June or July in order to get on their schedule and get the project done by August or September.

Many painting companies or painters may be 3-4 weeks out in their project schedule. 

Benefits of Exterior Painting in the Summer:

  • Dry Periods: Summer is the best time for exterior painting due to extended dry periods, providing ample time for the paint to cure.
  • Temperature: In Nebraska, average summer temperatures hover around 87 degrees, ideal for painting. While there may be occasional hot or rainy days, the overall conditions are favorable.
  • Moisture Evaporation: If it rains a few days before the project begins, the warmer temperatures help evaporate excess moisture, ensuring a dry surface for painting.

Tips to Ensure Your Exterior Painting Project Isn't Impacted by the Weather:

  1. Monitor Weather Forecasts: Keep an eye on the weather forecast be aware of rainy days and extreme temperatures. If there are rainy days in the weeks leading up to your project, expect some delays in your start date.
  2. Prepare Surfaces: Choose a painter that ensures surfaces are clean and dry before painting to avoid issues with adhesion and finish.
  3. Quality Materials: Be sure your painter uses a high-quality paint and materials designed for exterior use to withstand Omaha's weather.

Risks of Delaying Your Exterior Painting Project

Exterior of home in Omaha with snow on it, the color of the home is a yellow / beige with white trim and stone on the lower half.Procrastinating on your exterior painting project until next year can have significant consequences. Here are some risks associated with waiting until next year, especially if there is already visible damage on your home:

1. Increased Damage:

  • Weather Exposure: Prolonged exposure to harsh weather conditions can progress existing damage. Cracked, peeling, or blistering paint can lead to more extensive damage to the underlying materials.
  • Moisture Intrusion: Damaged paint can allow moisture to penetrate the wood or other materials, leading to rot, mold, and mildew. This can compromise the structural integrity of your home and require costly repairs.

2. Higher Costs:

  • Escalating Repairs: The longer you wait to address exterior damage, the more extensive the repairs will be. What might start as a simple repainting job could turn into a major renovation project.
  • Inflation: Costs for materials and labor can increase over time. By delaying your project, you risk paying higher prices for the same work.

3. Reduced Curb Appeal:

  • Appearance: A worn or damaged exterior can significantly detract from your home’s curb appeal. This can affect property value and make it less attractive to potential buyers if you plan to sell.
  • First Impressions: The exterior of your home is the first thing people see. Keeping it well-maintained leaves a positive impression on visitors and neighbors.

4. Compromised Protection:

  • Barrier: Exterior paint acts as a protective barrier against the elements. Delaying painting reduces this protection, leaving your home vulnerable to weather damage, pests, and other environmental factors.

Best Time To Paint Your Home

In conclusion, choosing the right time for exterior painting is crucial for achieving a long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing finish. Factors such as moisture, temperature, and proper preparation play a significant role in the success of your project. By planning ahead and selecting the summer months for your painting project, you can ensure optimal conditions for a flawless finish.

Freshen up your space by securing exterior painting services from Brush & Roll Painting in Omaha, NE. With more than 25 years of experience, we ensure a flawless, long-lasting finish. As professional painters, we are EPA lead safety-certified, licensed, and insured. Call (402) 932-9764 to get a quote or click the button below.

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To ensure your exterior painting project goes smoothly and stress-free, it's essential to have a checklist in place. This checklist will help you stay organized, track progress, and ensure that all necessary steps are taken to achieve a flawless finish. Click the button below to fill out a quick form and get your free checklist.

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Kaylea Kuhlman

Kaylea is the Brush & Roll Painting Content Manager.