Maintaining Painted Windows: How Often Should You Repaint?

When was the last time you took a close look at your painted window frames? They might look fine from a distance, but fading, cracking, and peeling can sneak up fast—especially with Central Oregon’s sun and temperature swings. Regular maintenance isn’t just about looks; it’s about protecting your home’s structure and keeping it efficient year-round.

Homeowners who work with a residential painter in Central Oregon know that well-maintained windows can last decades. But even the best paint job won’t last forever. The key question is: how often should you repaint? Let’s break it down.

Why Window Paint Maintenance Matters

Your window frames endure a lot—UV rays, moisture, snow, and wind. Over time, exposure breaks down the protective seal paint provides, leaving the wood or material underneath vulnerable. When paint cracks or peels, it opens the door for water intrusion, rot, and costly damage.

A fresh coat of paint doesn’t just restore color—it seals out moisture, protects against weathering, and adds an extra layer of insulation. Neglecting it can mean higher energy bills and expensive repairs later.

Signs It’s Time to Repaint

You don’t always need to repaint on a fixed schedule. Instead, keep an eye out for visible warning signs like:

• Cracking or peeling paint – Even small chips mean moisture is getting in.
• Fading color – UV exposure dulls paint over time, especially on sun-facing sides.
• Soft or discolored wood – A sign of water damage beneath the paint.
• Drafty windows – Deteriorated paint can let air seep through.

Once you spot any of these issues, it’s best to act quickly. Touch-ups can help, but if more than 10–15% of the paint is compromised, it’s time for a full repaint.

How Often Should You Repaint Your Windows?

On average, exterior paint on windows lasts 5 to 7 years, but several factors influence that timeline:

• Climate: Central Oregon’s dry summers and cold winters cause expansion and contraction, which accelerates wear.
• Paint quality: Premium paints last longer and resist fading better.
• Preparation: Proper sanding, priming, and sealing make a huge difference.
• Material type: Wood needs repainting more often than vinyl or aluminum.

If your home faces direct sunlight or frequent moisture, plan to repaint every 4 to 5 years. For shaded or sheltered areas, you can usually stretch that to 7 years with regular maintenance.

The Right Way to Repaint

Repainting windows isn’t as simple as brushing on a new layer. It requires careful prep to ensure the paint adheres and protects properly:

1. Clean the surface – Remove dirt, mildew, and old residue.
2. Scrape off loose paint – Never paint over peeling sections.
3. Sand the edges – Smooth transitions for a clean finish.
4. Prime bare wood – A must for long-lasting adhesion.
5. Apply two coats of paint – Use high-quality exterior paint rated for UV and moisture resistance.

A professional painting company will also check for wood rot, caulk gaps, and seal joints before repainting—small steps that make a big difference in performance and longevity.

Case Study: Saving a Century-Old Window Frame

A Bend homeowner with a 100-year-old craftsman-style home noticed cracking around the window sills. Instead of replacing them, they hired a local expert to restore the original wood frames. After sanding, priming, and applying two coats of weather-resistant paint, the result looked brand new—and five years later, it’s still holding up beautifully. Proper repainting not only preserved the historic charm but also avoided thousands in replacement costs.

Keep Your Windows Looking Sharp

Painted windows can stay strong and beautiful for years with the right care. Regular inspections and timely repainting protect your investment and enhance curb appeal.

If you’re unsure whether it’s time to repaint or just want a professional opinion, reach out to Ash Painting of Central Oregon. They’ll help you assess your windows and create a maintenance plan that fits your home and budget.