Florida’s sunshine is beautiful—but it’s brutal on your home’s exterior paint.
If you’re wondering how long exterior paint lasts in Florida, the answer depends on more than just the paint itself. Climate, prep, and even your home’s location near the coast play a huge role.
Here’s what Pinellas County homeowners need to know.
Average Exterior Paint Lifespan in Florida
- Stucco homes: 7–10 years with premium paint and proper prep
- Wood siding: 5–7 years (requires more upkeep)
- Fiber cement / Hardie board: 10+ years if maintained well
Quick rule of thumb: Expect 5–8 years for average homes, 8–12 years for premium prep + high-end products.
Why Florida Homes Age Faster
Florida’s environment is harsher than most states:
- High UV rays fade and chalk paint quickly
- Salt air corrodes surfaces near the coast
- Humidity & rain cause mildew and peeling
- Hurricane season exposes homes to wind-driven water
Even the best paint job won’t survive Florida’s climate if prep is skipped or low-grade products are used.
Signs It’s Time to Repaint
You don’t have to wait for peeling to repaint—look for these early indicators:
- Fading or chalky residue when you run your hand on the wall
- Hairline cracks or peeling at window sills or trim
- Mildew stains that won’t wash off
- Bubbling paint in sun-exposed areas
Catching these early saves money by reducing heavy prep costs later.
How to Make Exterior Paint Last Longer in Florida
- Choose premium paints: Sherwin-Williams Duration or Benjamin Moore Aura are our go-tos.
- Proper prep: Power washing, sealing cracks, and priming make or break longevity.
- Regular rinsing: A light rinse every 6 months helps fight salt and mildew buildup.
- Strategic timing: Painting in cooler months ensures optimal curing.
Legacy’s Florida-Proof Approach
At Legacy Applications, we don’t just paint—we plan for Florida’s conditions:
- Timed projects for best curing windows
- Salt- and sun-resistant coatings
- Extra focus on stucco sealing
- Hand-detailed trim and caulk work
Book your free consultation today, and let us show you how to protect your home for the next decade.
P.S. Curious about your home’s current paint health? Send us photos—we’ll give you a professional opinion on when to repaint (free and no obligation).