As a rough guide, most strata buildings in South East Queensland need an exterior repaint somewhere between 7 and 12 years. Buildings near the coast, with lots of western sun, or with a lower quality paint system from the last job sit at the short end. Sheltered buildings with a full paint system and regular wash downs sit at the long end.
Signs it is time
- Chalky paint that rubs off on your hand
- Fading, especially on the sunny sides
- Cracks in render or around windows
- Peeling or blistering paint
- Mould that comes back after cleaning
- Rust stains from balustrades or fixings
- Sealant around windows that has cracked or pulled away
Why waiting costs more
Paint protects the building. Once it fails, water gets into render and concrete, and the repairs needed before the next repaint grow. A building repainted on time mostly needs a wash down and minor repairs. A building left too long can need major render, concrete and sealant work first.
Plan it in the sinking fund
Most bodies corporate have a sinking fund forecast that sets out when big items like the exterior repaint are due. It is worth getting the building inspected a year or two before that date, so the forecast reflects the real condition. Our post on planning a body corporate repaint covers timing and getting it approved.
Between repaints
A wash down every couple of years and fixing small cracks and sealant early will stretch the time between full repaints.
If your building is coming up for a repaint, get in touch or call 1300 733 447. We will come out, have a look and give you a written quote with a clear scope.
