Around Richmond and Sugar Land, exterior paint has to deal with strong sun, heavy rain, and humidity that rarely lets up. When a paint job fails early, peeling at the trim or mildew on the north side of the house, the cause is almost always prep or timing.
Prep starts with a proper wash. Dirt, chalky old paint, and mildew all stop new paint from bonding. After washing, loose paint gets scraped, rough edges sanded, failed caulk cut out and replaced, and bare wood spot-primed. It's slow work, and it's the part that decides how long the paint lasts.
Timing matters just as much. Paint needs a dry surface and a window without rain while it cures. In our area that usually means starting after the morning dew burns off and finishing sides before the late-afternoon storms that roll in during summer. Spring and fall are the most comfortable seasons, but good exterior painting happens year-round with the right planning.
Finally, choose an exterior paint made for heat and moisture, with mildew resistance built in. Satin or low-sheen finishes on siding hide imperfections well, while semi-gloss on trim and doors makes them easier to clean.