Living in Central Florida means enjoying sunshine year-round, but that same sun can wreak havoc on your home’s exterior. The intense ultraviolet (UV) rays we experience here don't just fade colors; they break down the chemical bonds in paint, leading to cracking, peeling, and chalking.
If you have noticed a white, powdery residue on your exterior walls or your once-vibrant door looking a bit dull, you're likely seeing UV damage in action. Protecting your home’s painted surfaces isn’t just about curb appeal—it's about defending the structure itself from the elements.
UV radiation damages paint by breaking down the binder—the "glue" that holds the pigment together and adheres it to your wall. When this binder fails, the pigment is released as a chalky powder. In Florida, this process happens faster than in most other states because of our proximity to the equator and the sheer number of sunny days we get.
This damage is compounded by other local factors. The high humidity we see from May through October causes paint to expand and contract, while salt air (even inland, carried by storms) can corrode surfaces. This combination weakens the paint film, making it even more susceptible to UV rays.
Not all paints are created equal, especially when it comes to standing up to the Florida sun. For the best protection, look for high-quality 100% acrylic latex paints. These paints are flexible, meaning they can expand and contract with our temperature swings without cracking. They also hold onto their color and gloss much longer than oil-based alternatives.
For specific applications, consider these options:
Expect to pay a premium for UV-resistant products. While a standard gallon of exterior paint might cost $35, a high-quality, UV-resistant acrylic typically runs between $60 and $85 per gallon. That extra upfront cost pays for itself by adding years to the lifespan of your paint job.
Proper preparation is 80% of a successful paint job. Even the most expensive UV-resistant paint will fail if applied to a dirty or chalky surface. Before exterior painting, you must remove dirt, mildew, and that powdery chalk residue.
Pressure washing is the most effective method, but it must be done carefully to avoid forcing water into the walls. After cleaning, use a high-quality masonry primer (for stucco) or a wood primer that contains UV inhibitors. This "locks down" the surface and gives the topcoat something solid to grab onto.
In Central Florida, the ideal painting window is during our cooler, drier months—typically November through April. During this time, lower humidity allows the paint to cure properly.
Painting in the middle of a July afternoon is risky. If the surface temperature of your wall exceeds 90°F, the paint can dry too quickly, leading to blisters and poor adhesion. If you must paint in the summer, follow the shade around the house, painting the west side in the morning and the east side in the late afternoon.
Investing in UV protection involves both the cost of materials and labor. For a typical 2,000-square-foot home in neighborhoods like Lake Nona or Winter Park, a full exterior repaint using premium UV-resistant materials generally ranges from $3,500 to $6,000. This price varies based on the condition of your current siding and the complexity of the prep work required.
While this might seem like a significant investment, compare it to the cost of repairing water damage caused by failed paint. Replacing rotted wood or repairing cracked stucco can easily cost three times as much as a proactive paint job.
Yes, interior paint can fade if exposed to direct sunlight through windows. While interior painting generally doesn't require the same heavy-duty weatherproofing as exterior work, UV rays can still bleach bright colors on walls facing south or west.
If you're planning interior painting in Orlando Florida, consider using fade-resistant paints in sunny rooms or installing window film to block UV rays. High-quality interior paints in the $45-$65 per gallon range often include better color-retention technology.
You don't just paint your house and forget it. To get the most out of your UV-resistant paint:
In our years working on homes from Dr. Phillips to Oviedo, we have found that sheen matters. A satin or semi-gloss finish naturally reflects more UV radiation than a flat finish. While flat paint hides imperfections well, a satin finish will generally hold its color longer and is easier to clean.
We also recommend using lighter colors for the body of the house. Dark blues and deep reds absorb significantly more heat and UV radiation, causing them to fade much faster—sometimes in as little as 3-5 years. Lighter shades like beiges, creams, and pastels reflect the sun and can look fresh for 8-10 years.
Protecting your biggest investment from the Florida sun requires the right materials and the right techniques. Whether you need a full exterior refresh or just want to update your interior painting in Orlando Florida, we are here to help.
Don't let the sun degrade your home's value. Contact Rusty's Painting at (407) 312–4803 today for a free consultation. We’ll assess your home’s specific needs and recommend a protection plan that fits your budget.