I found that giving window frames a quick sanding and using exterior primer before painting makes the paint job last way longer. Learned this the hard way after repainting mine twice in three years, ugh. Anyone else got tips to make it last longer?
You're definitely onto something with the sanding and primer—prep work is half the battle. Another thing I've found helpful is using a high-quality acrylic latex paint specifically formulated for exterior trim. It flexes a bit with temperature changes, so it doesn't crack or peel as easily. Also, don't underestimate the power of caulking. Filling in those tiny gaps around the frames prevents moisture from sneaking in and wreaking havoc later.
I learned this after repainting my porch windows every other summer—talk about tedious. Finally, I bit the bullet and invested in better paint and proper caulking. It's been four years now, and they're still holding strong. Oh, and one more thing: timing matters. Painting on a dry, mild day—not too hot, not too cold—makes a surprising difference in how well the paint adheres and cures. Learned that one the hard way too...