Coastal salt, humidity, and intense sun shorten paint life vs. inland climates. We recommend exterior paints formulated for UV resistance, salt-spray tolerance, and flexible binders to resist chalking and cracking. Proper surface prep — cleaning, sanding, and using a high-quality primer — is essential to prevent peeling. We select finishes that shed moisture and allow wood movement, and we factor in more frequent maintenance cycles (inspections every 3–5 years) for coastal properties to maximize lifespan.

Preparation is the foundation of a lasting job. We power-wash to remove salt, mildew, and chalk; scrape loosened paint; sand feathered edges; repair rotted wood or trim; replace failed caulk and flashings; and apply an appropriate primer. For interior work we move or protect furnishings, sand and fill nail pops, and spot-seal stains. Proper prep addresses adhesion problems before they start — it’s the step most homeowners underestimate but that most directly extends color life and finish quality.

If we suspect lead-based paint (homes built before 1978), we follow EPA’s Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) guidelines for containment, worker protection, and waste disposal. That can mean full containment, HEPA-filtered sanding, and certified renovator oversight. We’ll discuss testing and safe options before starting. Safety-first protocols add cost but significantly reduce health risks — especially important if there are children, pregnant residents, or vulnerable occupants.

A typical single-family exterior job can take anywhere from a few days to two weeks, depending on size, prep needs, and complexity. Coastal humidity, rain, and temperature swings can extend dry times for primers and topcoats; humid nights slow curing and can force schedule changes. We monitor local forecasts and build in buffer days. We’ll always communicate schedule impacts and recommend ideal painting windows (milder, drier days) to protect finish quality.

Primer creates adhesion, seals porous surfaces, blocks stains, and evens out disparate substrates so topcoats perform consistently. Primer is essential over bare wood, patched areas, bare metal, chalky surfaces, drastic color changes, or when moisture and tannin bleed is possible. Skipping primer to save money leads to poor adhesion, rapid failure, and color inconsistency. We choose primers matched to the substrate — bonding primers for slick surfaces and stain-blocking primers where required.

Estimates consider surface area, complexity (trim, gables, verandas), prep level (rot repair, extensive scraping, mildew removal), number of coats, product quality, and access (ladders vs. scaffolding). Coastal-specific factors, like salt-damaged siding, can increase prep needs. Labor availability, permit needs, and seasonal demand also affect price. We provide transparent line-item estimates and explain tradeoffs (e.g., premium paint vs. economy). Ask for a written scope to avoid surprises.

We offer workmanship warranties that cover peeling, flaking, and application defects for a specified period. Paint manufacturers also warranty their products against premature failure when applied per guidelines. Warranties generally exclude natural wear from sun, salt, or mechanical damage and improper homeowner maintenance. We document the products used and care recommendations so homeowners can retain coverage and we make claims straightforward if an issue arises within the warranty window.

Yes — we color-match existing coatings using spectrophotometry for close matches and sample patching to verify how a color behaves in Edisto’s light. For new palettes we offer consultations considering architecture, neighborhood character, and coastal light (which can wash out or warm certain tones). We recommend testing sample boards on multiple facades and viewing them at different times of day before finalizing to avoid surprises once the whole exterior is finished.

We protect plants and softscape with tarps and low-impact coverings that still allow airflow. Decks and stonework are masked or covered; fixtures and hardware are removed if practical or carefully taped. We use drop cloths and avoid solvent runoff, collecting and responsibly disposing of waste and wash water. For salt-affected yards, we avoid prolonged wetting of sensitive plants. Our approach balances thorough containment with care for Edisto’s fragile coastal ecosystem.

You don’t need to empty rooms, but clearing valuables, fragile items, and wall hangings speeds work. Move smaller furniture to center rooms and cover; disconnect electronics, and point out problem areas (stains, cracks). For occupied homes, ensure a clear path for crew and allow access to utilities. We handle masking, moving large furniture when necessary, and floor protection, but homeowner cooperation with small tasks shortens timelines and reduces disruption.