You probably don’t think about repainting your home until something starts to look a little off — maybe the colour has faded, the walls look tired, or the paint is starting to peel. The truth is, paint doesn’t last forever, even when applied professionally. Over time, weather, sunlight, and everyday wear all take their toll.
At Southern Highlands Painting and Wallpapering, one of the most common questions we hear is: “How often should I repaint my home?” The answer depends on where you live, the quality of your last paint job, and the type of surface you’re dealing with.
In this guide, you’ll learn how long interior and exterior paint typically lasts, the key signs that it’s time for a refresh, and how regular maintenance can help your home stay beautiful — and protected — for years.
Table of Contents
How Often Should You Repaint Your Home’s Interior?
For most Australian homes, interior paint lasts every 5 to 10 years, depending on how much traffic and sunlight the area gets.
Here’s a breakdown by room:
- Living areas and bedrooms: Every 7–10 years, as these spaces experience moderate wear.
- Hallways and corridors: Every 3–5 years, since these walls see more scuffs and contact.
- Bathrooms, kitchens, and laundries: Every 3–4 years, because humidity, moisture, and steam can cause paint to break down faster.
- Ceilings: About every 10 years, unless stains, cracks, or discolouration appear sooner.
Regular cleaning and using high-quality washable paint can extend the life of your interior paintwork.
How Often Should You Repaint Your Home’s Exterior?
Exterior paint protects your home from harsh Australian weather — so it naturally needs more frequent attention. On average, you should repaint your home’s exterior every 5–7 years, though some surfaces last longer than others:
- Timber: Every 3–5 years due to exposure to moisture and sun.
- Render or brick: Every 8–10 years, depending on paint type and weather exposure.
- Weatherboard: Every 5–7 years, as it expands and contracts more with temperature changes.
- Metal or Colorbond: Every 10 years or when fading becomes noticeable.
If your home faces strong sunlight, coastal air, or heavy rain — all common in the Southern Highlands — you may need to repaint sooner to prevent deterioration.
Signs It’s Time to Repaint Your Home
Even if you’re not tracking the years, your home will tell you when it needs attention. Look out for these signs:
1. Fading Colours
UV rays from the Australian sun gradually fade paint, especially on darker or north-facing surfaces.
2. Peeling, Cracking, or Bubbling
This indicates that the paint is no longer adhering properly — often due to moisture or age. Once it starts, it spreads quickly.
3. Stains or Water Marks
Discolouration on walls or ceilings can signal water damage or leaks. Repainting should only happen after the source is repaired.
4. Mould or Mildew Growth
Humidity-prone areas like bathrooms or exteriors near gardens often develop mould. Repainting with a mould-resistant formula can prevent it returning.
5. You’re Simply Tired of the Colour
Sometimes, it’s not about damage — it’s about a change of style. A fresh coat of paint can completely transform your home’s atmosphere.
Why Regular Repainting Matters
Repainting isn’t just cosmetic — it’s protective. A high-quality paint job shields your home from moisture, UV rays, and everyday wear and tear. Neglecting it for too long can lead to bigger issues, like plaster repairs, wood rot, or expensive restoration work later.
Think of repainting like servicing your car: a bit of regular upkeep prevents costly problems down the track.
How to Make Your Paint Last Longer
- Use premium-quality paint: It costs more upfront but resists fading and cracking better over time.
- Prepare surfaces properly: Cleaning, sanding, and priming ensure paint bonds securely.
- Stay on top of maintenance: Wash exterior walls yearly to remove dirt and mildew.
- Avoid DIY shortcuts: A professional painter ensures even coverage, correct coatings, and a durable finish.
At Southern Highlands Painting and Wallpapering, we use high-performance paints suited to Australian conditions, helping extend the life of your paintwork and saving you money in the long run.
Final Thoughts
Knowing when to repaint your home is about more than just looks — it’s about protecting one of your biggest investments. As a rule of thumb, interior walls need a refresh every 5–10 years, and exteriors every 5–7 years, depending on exposure and upkeep.
If you’re noticing fading, peeling, or just want to modernise your space, a professional repaint is one of the simplest ways to add value and breathe new life into your home.
For honest advice and a flawless finish, talk to the team at Southern Highlands Painting and Wallpapering — your local experts in quality paintwork that lasts.