Why Some Paint Jobs Fail Too Soon — And How to Make Sure Yours Doesn’t

By Mountain Painting Company — Serving Portland, Oregon & Surrounding Communities

Craftsmanship You Can Trust. Quality That Lasts. Your Painter for Life.

In Portland’s unpredictable climate — with wet winters, dry summers, and plenty of in-between — a quality paint job is more than curb appeal. It’s protection. It’s performance. And it should last.

But we see it all the time — homes and buildings that were painted just two or three years ago and are already showing signs of trouble:

• Peeling paint on siding
• Faded or blotchy interior walls
• Cracking trim
• Poor surface prep that leads to premature failure
• Historic homes where improper paint removal caused lasting damage

Understandably, property owners are left asking: “Shouldn’t this paint job have lasted longer?”

Yes — it should have. A properly executed paint project should last many years, not just a few. The problem? Not every painting contractor takes the time to do it right. And in slower markets like we’re seeing now, more companies are cutting corners — rushing through jobs, using cheaper materials, or skipping key steps altogether.

At Mountain Painting Company, we take a different approach. With over 33 years of experience, we specialize in interior and exterior painting, paint stripping and surface preparation, and historic preservation. Our commitment is to quality craftsmanship, long-term value, and building trust with every project.

If you’re preparing to repaint — or want to make sure your next project is done right — here are five essential components that every lasting paint job should include:

1. Premium Paints That Perform

Quality paint matters. Lower-cost products may look fine at first, but they often fade, crack, or fail in just a few short years — especially in the Pacific Northwest. We use only professional-grade paints designed for long-term durability, color retention, and weather resistance.

Why it matters:
Superior products deliver better coverage, stronger adhesion, and longer-lasting results, inside and out.

2. Complete Surface Cleaning

Before painting can begin, all surfaces must be thoroughly cleaned. Whether it’s siding covered in moss, dusty baseboards, or residue from old finishes, any surface contaminants can compromise the bond between paint and substrate.

Why it matters:
A clean surface ensures proper adhesion and a longer-lasting, more attractive finish.

3. Detailed Preparation — Including Paint Stripping When Needed

A lasting paint job starts with meticulous prep. That can include sanding, scraping, caulking, and — in the case of older or previously mismanaged projects — professional paint stripping. This is especially important for historic homes, where improper removal methods can permanently damage original materials.

Why it matters:
Removing failing or incompatible old paint is often essential to allow new coatings to adhere properly and age gracefully.

4. Repairs Before Painting

Painting over soft, cracked, or damaged materials won’t solve the underlying issue. We inspect all surfaces and make the necessary repairs before painting begins — whether it’s exterior wood trim, interior drywall, or architectural details on a historic property.

Why it matters:
Paint is a finish, not a fix. Addressing damage before applying paint helps extend the life of your investment.

5. The Right Number of Coats

Too often, we see painters applying just one coat — sometimes even thinning it to stretch coverage. That’s never our approach. We apply the correct number of coats for each surface and situation, whether covering a dark color, sealing bare wood, or protecting a weather-exposed exterior.

Why it matters:
Multiple coats provide better protection, richer color, and greater resistance to wear and fading.

Committed to Craftsmanship — Across the Portland Metro Area

At Mountain Painting Company, we offer a full range of professional painting services:

• Interior and Exterior Residential Painting
• Historic Home Painting and Preservation
• Paint Stripping and Surface Preparation
• Wood Staining, Trim Restoration, and More

We proudly serve homeowners, HOAs, business owners, and property managers throughout Portland, Beaverton, Lake Oswego, West Linn, Tigard, and surrounding communities.

Whether you’re updating your home’s exterior, restoring a historic property, or refreshing your interior spaces, we deliver more than a coat of paint. We deliver trust, longevity, and results that stand the test of time.

Let’s Get It Done Right — The First Time

If you’ve had a disappointing experience in the past — or simply want to avoid one — we’re here to help. We’ll assess your project, explain what it truly needs, and ensure that your investment is protected for years to come.

Mountain Painting Company
Craftsmanship You Can Trust. Quality That Lasts.
Your Painter for Life.