How Often Should You Repaint a Historic Home in Little Rock
Protecting Little Rock’s Historic Charm
Little Rock’s historic neighborhoods — from Hillcrest to The Heights, Soma, and the Quapaw Quarter — are full of homes with timeless character. Craftsman bungalows, gingerbread details, and classic wood siding give these areas their unique charm. But with age and beauty comes responsibility: paint isn’t just about looks — it’s the first line of defense against weather, rot, and time.
At Brush & Pride Painting Company, we specialize in preserving that character. A common question we hear is: “How often should I repaint my historic home in Little Rock?” The answer depends on materials, climate, and upkeep — but there are clear guidelines homeowners can follow.
General Repaint Cycles for Historic Homes
Wood Siding: Every 5–7 years in Arkansas’s climate. High humidity, seasonal storms, and hot summers cause wood siding to expand and contract, which stresses paint and shortens its lifespan.
Trim, Fascia, & Gingerbread Details: Every 3–5 years. These intricate details are more exposed and prone to cracking, which makes them vulnerable if not protected.
Stucco or Masonry: Every 7–10 years, depending on exposure.
Porches & Decks: Every 2–4 years, especially horizontal surfaces that take direct sun and rain.
Signs It’s Time to Repaint
Even if you’re within the “average” repaint window, you should repaint sooner if you notice:
Peeling or Bubbling Paint – Exposed wood = vulnerability to rot.
Chalky or Faded Surfaces – UV rays break down pigments, weakening protection.
Hairline Cracks in Trim – Moisture sneaks in, causing costly repairs if ignored.
Water Stains or Dark Spots – Early signs of wood damage beneath paint.
Catching these issues early with a fresh coat is always less expensive than replacing siding or trim later.
Why Historic Homes Require Special Care
Unlike newer construction, historic homes often have softer, original wood siding that requires consistent upkeep to maintain integrity. The wrong paint, poor prep work, or extended neglect can cause irreversible damage. That’s why working with a contractor who understands historic preservation painting is key.
At Brush & Pride, we approach each historic home with the same philosophy: protect the wood, respect the character, and extend the life of the property.
How Brush & Pride Protects Your Home
Thorough Surface Prep: Scraping, sanding, and priming ensure paint bonds properly.
High-Quality Coatings: Paints formulated for Arkansas’s climate.
Warranty & Touch-Ups: Our industry-leading lifetime warranty on interior repaints and complimentary two-year touch-up service means we stand behind our work long after the job is done.
Historic Expertise: From Hillcrest bungalows to Quapaw Quarter Victorians, we know what it takes to preserve Little Rock’s most treasured homes.
Final Thoughts
If you own a historic home in Little Rock, think of painting as an investment in preservation — not just a cosmetic upgrade. Most homes need repainting every 5–7 years, but staying proactive and attentive to warning signs can save thousands in repairs.
At Brush & Pride Painting Company, our mission is simple: Care. Paint. Repeat. We don’t just paint homes — we help keep Little Rock’s story alive, one brushstroke at a time.
