Wandsworth homes, whether period terraces or modern flats, take a beating over time. Paint is the first thing people see, and the first thing to suffer. Fresh paint keeps your property looking smart and protects surfaces from damage. Ignoring the early signs costs more later. Here’s what to look for.

1. Peeling or Flaking Paint

When paint starts to peel, the surface underneath is no longer protected. It means moisture has got in or the previous job was rushed. You’ll see this around windows, doors, and anywhere exposed to direct sunlight or rain. On interiors, it often appears in kitchens, bathrooms, and around radiators where steam or heat builds up. Don’t just touch it up, once flaking starts, you need a sand down and proper repaint.

2. Faded or Discoloured Walls

Wandsworth gets its fair share of sun, and UV light breaks down pigments in paint. External walls fade fastest, especially those facing south. Reds become pink, blacks turn grey, and whites take on a yellow tinge. Indoors, nicotine stains, cooking fumes or age can change the tone. If your walls look dull and tired even after a good clean, it’s time to repaint.

3. Cracks in the Paint or Plaster

Fine cracks running through walls or ceilings aren’t always structural, but they spoil the look and let moisture in. They form when buildings shift slightly, which is common in older Wandsworth properties. If you see cracks around windows, cornices, or where walls meet ceilings, don’t ignore them. They need to be filled, primed, and painted correctly. Covering them without prep only makes it worse later.

4. Mould, Damp or Stains

Mould patches, brown stains, or bubbling paint are signs of water damage. These often show in bathrooms, around external walls, or under windows where condensation forms. Simply painting over them won’t fix the issue. The cause must be treated first. Once resolved, specialist primers followed by quality paint help prevent it from coming back. If you notice a musty smell or peeling near skirtings or coving, check for hidden dampness.

5. You Can’t Stand the Colour Any More

Trends change. What felt stylish ten years ago now looks tired. That aubergine feature wall, once bold, now drags the whole room down. Even neutral colours date over time. Fresh paint transforms a room more than new furniture ever can. If you’ve started avoiding certain rooms because they feel gloomy or lifeless, it’s a sign you need to refresh them. Pick calm tones like muted green, pale grey or chalk white for something clean but current. A Clean Finish Adds Value A fresh coat does more than improve looks. It helps sell your home, makes living in it more pleasant, and protects your property. Painting isn’t just cosmetic; it stops further wear. Always prep properly. Patchy jobs don’t last. If you’re not confident in doing it right, a skilled painter and decorator in Wandsworth will save you time and give you a better finish. Good paintwork lasts, but it doesn’t last forever. Check your home now, it may be time to refresh it before problems turn big.