Exterior Painting in Seattle, WA: Protecting Your Home Against the Pacific Northwest Climate
Seattle's 152 rainy days per year, constant humidity, and UV exposure create one of the toughest environments for exterior paint in America. After 16 years and 350+ exterior projects throughout Seattle, I've developed specialized techniques that make paint last 2-3 years longer than standard approaches.
Seattle's Exterior Painting Experts
Weather-resistant solutions since 2010
Why Seattle Exterior Painting Requires Special Expertise
Understanding the challenges that destroy ordinary paint jobs
152 Rainy Days
Seattle averages 37 inches of rain annually. This constant moisture creates perfect conditions for paint failure, mold growth, and wood rot if not properly addressed.
80%+ Humidity
Our humidity levels stay above 70% most of the year. Paint that works in Arizona fails here because it can't handle the constant moisture in the air.
UV Exposure
When the sun does come out, Seattle's northern latitude means intense UV rays at a sharp angle. South and west-facing walls get hammered, causing fading and chalking.
The $4,000 Lesson That Changed Everything
In 2014, I painted the Morrison family's Craftsman in Ballard using standard techniques I'd learned elsewhere. Eighteen months later, the north side was peeling, and the south side had chalked badly. I had to repaint it for free.
That expensive mistake taught me that Seattle requires a completely different approach. Now, I guarantee my exterior work for 5 years - something most Seattle painters won't do.
Exterior Painting Across Seattle Neighborhoods
Each area presents unique challenges I've learned to master
Ballard & Fremont
Historic Craftsmans and modern builds near the water. Maritime air requires extra corrosion protection.
125+ ProjectsCapitol Hill & Central District
Victorian homes and contemporary townhouses. Detailed trim work and historic color matching expertise.
95+ ProjectsQueen Anne & Magnolia
Hillside homes with wind exposure and stunning views. Extra attention to weather-facing walls.
80+ ProjectsWest Seattle & Alki
Direct Puget Sound exposure means salt air and wind. Marine-grade coatings are essential.
50+ ProjectsUniversity District & Ravenna
Mix of rental properties and family homes. Budget-conscious options without sacrificing quality.
60+ ProjectsGreen Lake & Wallingford
Family neighborhoods with mature landscaping. Careful protection of gardens and scheduling around family life.
70+ ProjectsMy Seattle Exterior Painting Process
A systematic approach developed over 350+ Seattle projects
1. Weather Window Planning
I monitor 10-day forecasts and only schedule when we'll have 4+ consecutive dry days. This ensures proper paint curing.
2. Thorough Pressure Washing
Seattle homes accumulate moss, mildew, and algae. I use specialized cleaning solutions that kill growth at the root.
3. Complete Surface Prep
Scraping, sanding, caulking, and priming bare wood. This is where most painters cut corners - I spend 40% of project time here.
4. Premium Paint Application
Two full coats of Sherwin-Williams Duration or Benjamin Moore Aura - the best exterior paints for Pacific Northwest conditions.
5. Final Inspection & Warranty
Detailed walkthrough with you, touch-ups as needed, and a written 5-year warranty on all work.
Exterior Painting Pricing in Seattle (2026)
Transparent pricing for Seattle homeowners
| Home Type | Size | Standard | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bungalow/Cottage | 1,000-1,500 sq ft | $4,500-6,500 | $6,500-9,000 |
| Single-Story Ranch | 1,500-2,000 sq ft | $5,500-8,000 | $8,000-11,000 |
| Two-Story Colonial | 2,000-2,800 sq ft | $8,000-12,000 | $12,000-16,000 |
| Large Two-Story | 2,800-3,500 sq ft | $11,000-15,000 | $15,000-20,000 |
| Victorian/Craftsman | Varies | $12,000-18,000 | $18,000-28,000 |
*Prices include full prep, premium paint, and 5-year warranty. Actual costs depend on condition, accessibility, and color choices.
What's Always Included
- Pressure washing & mildew treatment
- Complete scraping & sanding
- Caulking windows & doors
- Primer on bare wood
- Two coats premium paint
- Landscape protection
- Daily cleanup
- 5-year written warranty
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about exterior painting in Seattle
When is the best time to paint exterior in Seattle?
Late spring through early fall (May-September) offers the best conditions. I need temperatures above 50°F and no rain for 24-48 hours after painting. I monitor weather closely and schedule strategically.
How long does exterior paint last in Seattle?
With my weather-resistant system, expect 7-10 years. Standard paint jobs often fail in 4-5 years here. The difference is preparation quality and paint selection.
Do you paint in Seattle's rainy weather?
Never. Rain ruins fresh paint. I use advanced weather monitoring and maintain flexible scheduling. If rain threatens, we pause and resume when conditions improve - your project quality comes first.
What paint brands work best in Seattle?
I exclusively use Sherwin-Williams Duration and Benjamin Moore Aura for exteriors. These premium paints have superior moisture resistance and flexibility that handles Seattle's temperature swings.
How do you handle moss and mildew?
Thorough pressure washing with mildew-killing solutions, followed by a treatment that prevents regrowth. Simply painting over moss/mildew guarantees failure - it must be completely eliminated first.
What's your warranty for Seattle exteriors?
5 years on all exterior work, covering peeling, blistering, and fading. Most painters offer 1-2 years here. My confidence comes from using the right materials and techniques for our climate.
Related Painting Services
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Serving All Seattle: Ballard • Fremont • Capitol Hill • Queen Anne • Magnolia • West Seattle • Green Lake • Wallingford • University District • Ravenna • Central District • Georgetown • Columbia City
