6 Things Overlooked When Planning an Exterior Paint Job in Utah
A fresh coat of paint can transform your home’s curb appeal—but if it’s not done right, it can start peeling, bubbling, or fading faster than you think. At Element Coatings, we’ve worked on everything from historic homes in Salt Lake City to modern stucco and Hardie board exteriors across the Wasatch Front. We also handle decks, fences, and other exterior features that need special attention—whether they call for paint, solid stain, or a penetrating sealer.
And we’ve seen firsthand how often homeowners are led astray by cheap bids, skipped steps, and the wrong products for the job.
Here are 6 things people often overlook when planning an exterior paint job in Utah—and how we make sure you don’t.
1. Using the Same Paint on Every Surface
Your home isn’t made of one material—and it shouldn’t be painted like it is. Stucco, Hardie board, wood siding, and metal gutters or trim all require specific primers, paints, or solid stains to ensure adhesion and durability.
Some painters cut corners by using the same paint everywhere to save on time and materials. But that can lead to early failure—especially on gutters, fascia, or soffits where bonding issues are common.
At Element Coatings, we customize your system based on what your home is made of—so it lasts longer and looks better.
2. Overlooking Proper Prep
The paint job you see is only as strong as what’s beneath it. Skipping or rushing pressure washing, sanding, scraping, and caulking is one of the most common causes of early peeling and bubbling.
We never cut corners on prep work—because the prep phase is where most paint jobs fail.
3. Not Considering Utah’s Harsh Climate
Utah’s high elevation, strong sun, and freeze-thaw cycles put extra stress on exterior coatings. We carefully select from high-performing systems using Sherwin-Williams and PPG products, designed to resist UV breakdown, retain color, and prevent moisture intrusion.
Every home is different—so we help you choose the right paints and primers for your exposure and surfaces.
4. Skipping Gutters, Trim, and the Fine Details
Some painters focus only on the big surfaces, leaving gutters, eaves, soffits, fascia, and railings as an afterthought. But those details can make or break the look and performance of the entire job.
We don’t overlook those parts—and we use the right paint for them, even if it’s different from your siding paint.
5. Choosing a Painter Based on Price Alone
There’s always someone cheaper—but when it comes to exterior painting, cutting corners can cost thousands later. We’ve been called in too many times to fix paint jobs that failed in under a year due to poor prep or wrong product choices.
We back our work with a 5-Year Warranty against peeling and bubbling, and use materials designed for long-term performance—not just to pass inspection.
6. Missing Out on Help with Color or Project Planning
Picking the right color can be stressful—and it matters. Undertones shift outdoors, and what looks great on a swatch can feel completely different in full sun or shade.
We offer free color consultations and even virtual or phone estimates to help you move forward faster and more confidently.
Let’s Get Started on Your Exterior Project
Serving Salt Lake City, Utah County, and surrounding areas, Element Coatings is here to help you get it done right the first time. Transparent pricing. Thoughtful prep. Products that last.
Call or message today for a free consultation.
📞 801-793-5897
📩 Patrick@elementcoatingsllc.com