Choosing Coatings for a Hot, Humid Climate
- 100% acrylic latex: flexible, breathable and UV-resistant. It moves with wood and fiber cement as they expand and contract, which helps prevent cracking and peeling. Our default for most siding and trim.
- Elastomeric coatings: thick, stretchy films that bridge hairline cracks. Well suited to stucco and some masonry, but not right for every wood surface because they can trap moisture.
- Mildewcide-enhanced formulas for shaded, damp walls.
- Oil-based or urethane-modified enamels for doors and high-wear trim where a hard finish matters.
Sheen matters too. Flat and low-sheen finishes hide surface flaws on siding; satin and semi-gloss clean easily on trim and doors.
Preparation: Where Paint Jobs Succeed or Fail
- Wash: remove dirt, chalk, mildew and algae. See our pressure washing service.
- Let surfaces dry thoroughly; paint over damp wood and it will peel.
- Scrape and sand loose paint and feather the edges.
- Repair or replace rotted trim, siding and sills.
- Prime bare wood, repairs and stains with the right primer.
- Caulk open joints with a paintable, flexible sealant.
- Protect plants, walkways, windows and fixtures.
Homes built before 1978 may have lead-based paint, which requires lead-safe work practices during scraping and sanding.
Surfaces We Paint and Finish
- Wood lap siding, shingles and board and batten
- Fiber cement and engineered wood siding
- Brick, block and stucco (with breathable masonry coatings)
- Trim, fascia, soffit, porch ceilings and columns
- Front doors, shutters, garage doors and railings
- Fences, decks and outbuildings with appropriate stains or paints
Vinyl siding can be painted with vinyl-safe colors, but very dark colors can cause panels to warp in the sun. We'll tell you when a color isn't a good idea for the surface.
Color Matching and Weather Timing
We can match an existing color from a chip or sample, or help you choose a new scheme that suits your roof, brick and neighborhood. Paint needs the right conditions to cure: we watch temperature, humidity and dew point and schedule around rain so coatings aren't exposed to moisture before they set.
How Long Exterior Paint Lasts
A professional paint job typically lasts about 8 to 12 years, depending on surface material, sun exposure and the quality of prep and paint. South- and west-facing walls usually wear first. Washing the exterior every year or two and touching up trim early extends the life of the whole job. Many owners pair painting with soffit and fascia repairs or new siding; see our siding installation page if replacement makes more sense than repainting.
Common Questions
What type of paint works best in Mississippi's climate?
High-quality 100% acrylic latex is the best all-around choice for siding and trim because it stays flexible and resists UV and moisture. Elastomeric coatings work well on stucco and some masonry.
Do you handle surface preparation before painting?
Yes, and it's the most important part of the job. We wash, dry, scrape, sand, repair rot, prime and caulk before any finish coat goes on.
Can you match my existing color?
Yes. We can match from a sample or chip, or help you choose a new color scheme that complements your roof and brick.
Do you paint trim, doors and shutters too?
Yes. We paint trim, fascia, soffit, front doors, shutters, garage doors and railings, using harder-wearing finishes where they get the most handling.
How long will a professional exterior paint job last?
Typically about 8 to 12 years, depending on surface, exposure and maintenance. Sunny walls may need attention sooner.