Exterior Paint Peeling

Exterior paint peeling or bubbling? Learn causes, proper prep steps, and repainting costs ($500–$3,000).

Typical repair cost: $500–$3000 · DIY difficulty: Hard · About Full day+.

What usually causes it

• Moisture behind siding
• Poor surface prep
• Low-quality paint
• Sun damage
• Paint applied in wrong conditions

What you need

• Scraper
• Sandpaper
• Primer
• Exterior paint
• Brushes/rollers

How to fix it yourself

1. Scrape off all loose and peeling paint
2. Sand the edges smooth where old paint meets bare wood
3. Check for rotted wood — replace if soft
4. Apply a high-quality exterior primer to bare areas
5. Apply two coats of exterior paint in dry, temperate weather (50–85°F)
6. Address any moisture issues behind the siding to prevent recurrence

When to call a pro

For multi-story homes, lead paint concerns, or large areas — professional painters have proper equipment and safety gear.

Get a fixed price from a local pro