How to Prevent Fading from Your Home

1. Understand Why Exterior Paint Fades in Edmonton

Before jumping into solutions, it helps to understand the enemy. Paint fades when its pigments break down under the influence of:

• UV Radiation: Edmonton’s long daylight hours in summer mean more sun exposure than many other Canadian cities.

• Harsh Weather: Wind, hail, snow, and freeze-thaw cycles chip away at the paint’s durability.

• Poor-Quality Paint: Not all exterior paints are made for our climate.

• Improper Surface Preparation: Dirt, mildew, or old peeling paint beneath new layers leads to premature breakdown.

2. Choose UV-Resistant, High-Quality Paints

This is non-negotiable. Homeowners often go for a “budget-friendly” option, but cheaper paints tend to lack the high-grade pigments and binders needed to withstand UV damage. When painting your home’s exterior:

• Look for products labeled as UV-resistant or fade-resistant.

• Opt for acrylic latex over oil-based paints, especially for wood siding and trim—it adheres better and lasts longer.

• Choose lighter shades—they reflect sunlight and fade slower than deep, saturated colors.

3. Prep Like a Pro: Surface Cleaning and Priming Matter

Think of prep work as building a foundation. If it’s done poorly, even the best paint won’t hold up. At Leonard’s Painting, we never paint over dirt, chalk, mildew, or flaking old coatings. If you’re tackling it yourself:

• Power wash or hand scrub the surface to remove grime.

• Scrape away peeling paint completely.

• Spot-prime exposed or repaired areas with a high-bond exterior primer suited for Edmonton’s variable weather.

4. Time Your Painting Wisely

In Edmonton, the window for exterior painting is limited. Late spring through early fall is ideal—but it’s not just about the temperature:

• Avoid painting in direct sunlight, especially during peak afternoon hours. It causes paint to dry too fast, reducing adhesion.

• Don’t paint just before or after rain. Moisture is paint’s worst enemy.

• Aim for mild days between 10°C and 25°C, with low humidity.

5. Apply Paint Correctly—Don’t Cut Corners

A quick slap of paint might cover imperfections temporarily, but it won’t last. Whether you DIY or hire professionals, the following steps ensure a longer-lasting finish:

• Apply two full coats for even coverage and better durability.

• Use brushes and rollers designed for exterior work, or high-quality sprayers.

• Paint in thin, even layers—thick coats crack and peel faster.

6. Regular Maintenance Goes a Long Way

Once the paint is on, the job’s not entirely over. An annual check-up can help you catch issues before they require full repainting:

• Inspect for chipping, cracking, or chalking (a white powdery residue).

• Clean your siding and trim once a year to remove pollutants and mildew.

• Touch up small worn areas promptly—don’t let them grow into larger problems.

7. Use Protective Finishes Where Needed

If your home has stained wood, brick, or other specialty surfaces, sealants and protective coatings can reduce sun and water damage:

• UV-blocking clear coats are available for wood stains.

• Masonry sealers can keep bricks looking sharp without allowing moisture to seep in.

8. Consult a Local Professional

Homes in Edmonton face a unique climate that not all painting contractors understand. A local painter—like Leonard’s Painting—knows the timing, materials, and techniques needed to ensure your home stays protected and beautiful, year after year.

We’ve worked on everything from heritage homes in Westmount to modern infills in Glenora. Our process is tailored to what Edmonton homes need, not just what looks good in a catalog.