Exterior Painting - Trim

I had my house painted approximately 2006. I received a price on painting the trim which would include soffits, peak trim, door frames, exposed wood windows and window trim. We were standing next to my front door and the paint on the trim looked "terrible" The painter, James, explained to me that a painter scrapes as much as he can -old wood can't be scraped as much and the only way it would remain looking good for more years would be to put new wood on those parts. I wish former painters told me that the paint on the trim wouldn't last that many years because of old wood. I decided instead of painting the trim that still looks good, I would just replace wood.

I just telephoned a handyman on call for a local newspaper and he suggested using two thin coats of solid color latex stain which he believes lasts a long time. He said he doesn't know if painters would agree with this,

I would appreciate any advice as to the accuracy of the information I received.

Thanks in advance,

 

Generally 2 coats of paint will outlast 2 coats of stain. On new or bare wood, stain requires less prep [usually no primer] and stains normally don't peel so there is less prep needed when it comes time to recoat. Stains weather away instead of peeling. Paint gives more protection than stain.

It's hard to say without seeing the wood in question. IMO most wood can be scraped although it does become more difficult if the wood is deteriorating or has become soft. Moisture is one of the biggest enemies of paint. If moisture can enter the wood and get behind/under the paint - the paint will fail. Oil priming and caulking might prevent this - just hard to say without being there.