How to Maintain a Painted Home in Puerto Rico’s Coastal Climate

A fresh paint job looks great—but in Puerto Rico, it’s not just about looks. The island’s tropical climate can quickly break down paint with constant humidity, salt air, mold growth, and powerful UV exposure. To make your investment last, regular maintenance is key.

Here’s how to keep your home looking freshly painted for years, whether you're on the beach in Dorado or tucked into the hills of Guaynabo.

1. Power Wash Your Home Annually

Salt, dust, and mildew build up fast in the tropics. We recommend scheduling professional power washing at least once per year to:

• Remove grime, algae, and salt deposits

• Restore color vibrancy

• Prevent mold from growing on porous surfaces

Homes near the coast or shaded by trees may need biannual cleanings.

2. Inspect for Cracks and Peeling Paint

At least twice a year, walk around your home and check for:

• Hairline cracks in stucco or plaster

• Bubbling, flaking, or chalky paint

• Exposed patches that might allow water in

Touch-ups and patching now can prevent expensive repaints later. It’s especially important for flat roofs, parapet walls, and unshaded exteriors.

3. Touch Up High-Exposure Areas

Certain parts of the home take more abuse:

• Window sills

• Roof lines

• Exterior corners

• Gutter edges

• Seaward-facing walls

We offer biannual maintenance packages to recoat these high-wear areas before they deteriorate.

4. Keep Extra Paint On Hand

We label and store every color we use so we can match future touch-ups precisely. If you DIY, keep:

• A small can of each color used

• A sample swatch labeled with sheen and finish

• A record of the brand (we primarily use Sherwin-Williams)

This prevents mismatched patches and uneven blending over time.

5. Seal and Protect Surfaces

For homes with flat roofs, tile surfaces, or exterior stone:

• Apply elastomeric roof sealant every 3–5 years

• Reseal concrete and stone to prevent staining and erosion

• Keep gutters clean to reduce overflow and water intrusion

These extras extend the life of your paint and your structure.

🏠 Maintenance Schedule Cheat Sheet

Task	Frequency
Power Washing	1x per year (2x for coastal homes)
Touch-Ups	Every 1–2 years
Full Repaint	Every 7–10 years
Roof & Concrete Sealing	Every 3–5 years
Gutter Cleaning	2x per year

📞 Call us today at 787-339-2115 to schedule a free consultation

Let’s make your property look its absolute best.