How to get your Austin home’s exterior painted right the first time

Why hire a pro in Austin?

Austin’s climate — hot UV swings in summer, heavy cedar pollen Jan–Apr, and sudden storm-to-sun shifts — shortens the life of ordinary paint jobs. We use local experience to choose coatings and timing that actually stick and last. Hiring Hill Country Painting avoids patchy results, hidden substrate problems, and repeated repainting.

Our exterior painting process

We follow a predictable, proven workflow so every job performs in real Hill Country conditions.

• Inspection and scope: look for rot, stucco hairline cracks, and limestone dust on trim and siding.
• Prep: pressure wash, scrape failing paint, and make minor carpentry or stucco repairs as needed.
• Priming and sealing: bonding primer for masonry, tannin-blocking primer for cedar, and spot-priming bare wood.
• Caulking and sealing: elastomeric caulk at joints and gaps to bridge movement from thermal shifts.
• Finish coats: two thin coats of premium 100% acrylic exterior paints applied for durable color and adhesion.

We schedule work to respect cure and recoat windows and to finish coats during safe temperature and humidity conditions — generally between 50–90°F and at or below ~70% relative humidity.

Product classes and practices we rely on

• 100% acrylic exterior paints for color retention and UV resistance.
• Elastomeric caulk for dynamic joints in stucco and trim.
• Bonding primer for masonry and stucco repairs.
• Tannin-blocking primer for cedar and other knotty woods.
• Two thin coats for even coverage and longer life; follow cure/recoat windows carefully.

Timing, repairs and common substrate issues

Austin’s limestone dust can abrade fresh coatings; cedar tannins can bleed through cheap primers; and rapid sun/rain swings demand controlled scheduling. We coordinate power washing, repairs, priming and finishing so coatings go on clean and can cure properly.

If a project reveals lead paint, we recommend hiring a certified lead-safe contractor — this is a regulated hazard and not a homeowner DIY task.

What to expect on site

Our crews arrive with covered drop cloths, containment for landscaping, and dust control for limestone areas. We keep homeowners updated on timing for color approval and any necessary HOA paperwork. We aim for minimal disruption and a professional cleanup at day’s end.

“Pro tip: in Austin we always let primers fully dry overnight before applying topcoat—those temperature swings mean faster surface cooling and a better bond.” — Lead Painter, Hill Country Painting

Mini case note — Steiner Ranch

We recently repainted a two-story stucco home in Steiner Ranch where limestone dust and cedar pollen had accelerated finish breakdown. After pressure washing, patching hairline stucco cracks, and applying a bonding primer plus two thin coats of 100% acrylic, the homeowner saw immediate improvement in color and durability.

Maintenance and warranty

We stand behind our work with a clear warranty and routine maintenance guidance tailored to Austin. Typical recommendations include annual inspections after heavy cedar seasons and keeping gutters and overhangs clear to reduce splash-back on lower trim.

FAQs

How much does exterior house painting cost in Austin?

Costs vary by home size, substrate condition, and repair needs. We do an on-site estimate so we can factor in prep, priming, and the best products for Austin’s UV and pollen conditions — contact Hill Country Painting for a customized quote.

When is the best time of year to paint in the Hill Country?

Late spring through early fall generally offers stable warm days, but we avoid days with high cedar pollen or imminent storms. We schedule around forecasts to respect the 50–90°F and ≤~70% RH guidance for proper curing.

Do you handle stucco and wood repairs before painting?

Yes. We address stucco hairline cracks with bonding primer and patching, and rotten wood is repaired before priming and painting. Proper substrate repair is essential in Austin’s climate to prevent peeling and failure.

Can you help with HOA approvals and color selection?

Yes. We offer color consultation and can provide samples and documentation to support HOA submissions so projects move smoothly through local review processes.

What if my home has lead paint?

If we suspect lead, we’ll recommend certified lead-safe contractors for testing and remediation. Lead work is regulated and requires trained professionals for safe handling.

If you’re in Austin or nearby Round Rock, Plugerville, Taylor, West Lake Hills, Bee Cave, Lakeway, Steiner Ranch, Georgetown, Avery Ranch, Hill Country Painting can help. Call (512) 240-2246 or visit https://Hillcopaint.com

• Exterior painting prep in Austin heat → /services/exterior-painting
• Cedar staining & tannin-blocking primers → /services/wood-staining
• Interior painting options and scheduling → /services/interior-house-painting
• Same-day and urgent exterior services → /services/same-day-painting

Sources consulted — manufacturer tech sheets; Austin climate normals (NOAA); substrate prep guides; paint industry best practices.