Painting Your Michigan Home’s Exterior: A Guide to Timing, Costs, and the Best Paints for Our Weather

Living in Michigan means we get to enjoy all four seasons, but that changing weather can be tough on our homes. If you’re thinking about painting your house, you probably have a lot of questions. When is the right time to do it? What kind of paint will actually last through our cold winters and humid summers? And how much is it all going to cost?

Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. This simple guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get a beautiful exterior paint job that protects your home for years to come.

When is the Best Time to Paint Outside in Michigan?

Timing is everything when it comes to exterior painting in our state. For the best, longest-lasting results, you should plan your painting project between late spring and early fall, which is usually from May through October.  

Why then? It all comes down to temperature and moisture.

• Temperature: Most paints need the temperature to be at least 50°F to stick and dry properly. It’s also important that the temperature doesn’t drop too low at night while the paint is still curing. Painting during our warmer months ensures the paint forms a strong, protective layer.  
• Humidity: High humidity can make paint take a very long time to dry, which can lead to streaks or a weak finish. Spring and fall in Michigan usually have lower humidity, making them perfect for painting.  
• Rain: You’ll want to make sure there is no rain in the forecast for at least 24 hours after painting to give the paint enough time to dry.  

Some newer paints, like Sherwin-Williams Latitude™, are made to work in cooler temperatures (as low as 35°F), which can sometimes extend the painting season into late fall.  

What is the Best and Longest-Lasting Paint for Michigan’s Climate?

Choosing the right paint is the most important decision you’ll make for protecting your home. Because of our weather, you can’t just use any exterior paint. You need one that can handle moisture, ice, and sun without cracking or peeling.

For Michigan homes, the best choice is a high-quality, 100% acrylic latex paint. This type of paint is flexible, which means it can expand and contract as your home’s siding changes with the temperature. It’s also breathable, which lets moisture escape, preventing mold and mildew.  

Look for trusted brands that are known for durability, like Sherwin-Williams (their Duration® and Emerald® lines are excellent) or Benjamin Moore (their Aura® and Regal® Select lines are top choices). These paints cost more than budget options, but they will protect your home for many more years, saving you money in the long run.  

Your home’s siding material also matters. Here’s a quick guide to what works best for different surfaces:

How Much Does it Cost to Paint a Home Exterior in Michigan?

The cost to paint the outside of a house in Michigan can vary a lot, but a general range for a professional job is between $8,000 and $40,000 or more, depending on the size of your home.  

Several things can change the final price of your project:

1. Prep Work: If your home has a lot of peeling paint that needs to be scraped and sanded, it will cost more than a home that’s in good shape.  
2. Home Size: A larger, two-story home will require more paint and labor than a smaller, one-story ranch.
3. Paint Quality: Using a premium, long-lasting paint will cost more upfront but will save you from having to repaint again in just a few years.  

Get a Paint Job That Lasts

Painting your Michigan home’s exterior is a big project, but getting it right means your home will look great and be protected from the weather for a long time. Remember to paint during the right season, choose a high-quality acrylic paint, and make sure the prep work is done right.

Ready for a beautiful, long-lasting exterior? Contact us today for a free, detailed estimates