What is the Best Time of Year To Paint?
Many people are unsure of when they should paint their house or commercial property. Each season comes with its own positives and negatives. In this article we will go over these details so you can best decide which is best for your needs.
Your home’s paint isn’t just about curb appeal, it’s your first line of protection against the elements. But in Wilkes-Barre and throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania (NEPA), weather patterns can make or break your painting project. So when is the best time to paint your home in this region?
Spring: A Mixed Bag
Spring offers milder temperatures, but it can also be wet and unpredictable. If you’re planning a spring paint job, aim for late April to early June. Just be prepared to watch the forecast closely. As local Pa natives, we know that some springs come with heat, some come with rain, and others…..snow at times. So lets break down the pros and cons of whether or not you should paint during spring.
Pros:
• Temperatures in the ideal 50°F–75°F range
• Nature comes alive—perfect backdrop for fresh colors
• Great time for exterior work before foliage fully returns
• Energy savings from early sealing of draft-prone areas
Cons:
• Rain and humidity can delay projects
• Pollen might stick to fresh paint if you’re not careful
• Unpredictable temperature swings
• Wind can interfere with spraying or cause debris to stick
Summer: The Prime Painting Season
Mid-summer is typically the best time to paint in Wilkes-Barre. The days are longer, warmer, and drier, perfect for exterior and interior painting alike. Summer might be the best time to head out to Harveys lake to enjoy a boat ride or take a hike up near Bear Creek, but its also the best time to get that fresh paint look on your home or business. With people out and about, it makes sense that you would want your place looking spectacular.
Pros:
- Warm, dry weather allows paint to cure properly
- More predictable weather patterns
- Faster project completion
- Long daylight hours mean more working time per day
Cons:
- Extreme heat (above 85°F) can dry paint too fast
- May need to avoid direct midday sun
- UV exposure can affect paint performance on some surfaces
- Sudden thunderstorms can still cause last-minute delays
Fall: Cool, Calm, and Collected
Early fall, especially September and early October, can be a great time to paint before the temperatures drop. I know we all like to go out and enjoy a haunted hay ride or two, but fall is a great time to get your place painted. On top of that, if your going to be stuck inside during our long PA winters, then a fresh coat of interior paint might help brighten those long nights.
Pros:
-
Cool, steady temperatures are paint-friendly
-
Less humidity, especially in early fall
-
Ideal for touch-ups and prep work for winter
-
Great time to tackle delayed summer projects before winter
Cons:
-
Shorter days reduce working time
-
Paint may not cure properly if it gets too cold overnight
-
Sudden cold snaps can halt progress
-
Leaves and debris can interfere with outdoor work
Reach Out Today!
Winter: Proceed with Caution
Winter in NEPA is not ideal for exterior painting, but it’s a great opportunity to focus on interior upgrades. Cold temperatures make outdoor work nearly impossible, lets not forget about the snow from those great nor’easters. However, interior painting can still move forward, and a lot of painters have their schedules open. Just be mindful of proper ventilation and drying times indoors.
Pros (for interior only)
- Painters are more available
- Indoor projects keep you productive during winter months
- Less competition for scheduling with contractors
- A fresh interior can boost mood and comfort during the darker months
Cons:
- Outdoor painting is a no-go due to freezing temps
- Ventilation is a concern indoors, so plan accordingly
- Paint may take longer to dry without warm airflow
- Holidays and travel can limit project availability
Pro Tips for Wilkes-Barre Homeowners
- Always check your paint manufacturer’s recommended temperature range
- Avoid painting right before or after a heavy rain
- Hire local pros who understand NEPA’s seasonal quirks
- Use weather-tracking apps to plan around NEPA’s sudden changes
- Schedule early in the season to beat the local rush for painters
Need Help Choosing the Right Time?
Let us take the guesswork out of choosing your interior or exterior painting timing. Our team at House Painting Direct knows how to work with NEPA’s seasons, weather and natural elements. Whether it’s spring touch-ups or a full summer repaint, we’ll make sure your home looks its best, year-round. Reach out today and look fresh tomorrow.