How Often Should You Repaint Your Walls?

Paint Quality

• The quality of the paint you use affects how long your paint job will last. Quality paints that are scrub- and fade-resistant have a longer lifespan than inexpensive paints that stain the first time you accidentally get a few drops of water on the wall. Some paints have warranties that guarantee they will last 10, 15 and even 25 years. By choosing a quality paint, applying it properly and maintaining your walls, there is a good chance you may be able to go quite a few years without repainting your walls.

Damage

• Even the best paints are not immune to damage. Children, pets, cigarette smoke and all sorts of other damage can ruin paint, regardless of how recently it was applied. Sometimes cleaning will not eliminate the problem, and you have to repaint.

Personal Preference

• Your tastes and the way your family uses your home change over the years. For example, your son may want the larger bedroom now that his sister has left home, but he probably doesn't want her lavender walls. Or the primary colors you chose when you bought and decorated your home years ago may seem garish now. Paint is one of the most inexpensive ways you can redecorate, whatever the reason.

Maintenance

• Even when your paint is in relatively good condition, it may need to be freshened from time to time to maintain a fresh, crisp look. Most landlords repaint rental properties every couple of years to keep the walls looking clean and make the home more appealing to prospective residents. If you are planning to rent or sell a residence, repainting is probably a good idea. You may also want to redo your walls if the new paint does not cover the old paint completely or if the walls are the wrong color.