There are few home improvement projects as exciting as exterior painting – and whether you’re simply trying to refresh an old fixer-upper or prepare your home for potential buyers, the right coat of paint can make a monumental difference. That said, some homeowners have legitimate concerns about the cost of exterior painting, so much so that they’d rather skip the project entirely. However, by understanding some of the key factors that determine how much you’ll need to spend to paint your home, you’ll quickly see just how worthwhile the whole endeavor can be. Here’s what you need to know.
1. Consider Your Home’s Square Footage
This is the case for virtually all types of painting projects; the size of your home and the number of walls being painted is probably the single largest factor when it comes to the cost of exterior painting. Before getting started, accurately measure the square footage of all exterior walls you’re planning to paint. Most quality exterior paints cost anywhere from $50 to $100 per gallon, and an average home may require 15 to 30 or so gallons of paint. Of course, the brand and type of paint also influence this figure – and you’ll likely need two total coats for the majority of exterior house painting projects.
2. Preparation Comes with Built-In Costs
Painting is generally a multi-step process; you don’t just simply pick up a brush or roller and start going to town! For instance, any walls being painted must first be cleaned. Likewise, surfaces need to be sanded and repaired if there are any chips, cracks, dings, or other forms of damage present. The area being painted must also be prepared – tarps and drop cloths need to be placed, ladders and scaffolding need to be set up, and other accommodations must be made. All of this prep work comes with a time and cost investment – some tasks might even add hundreds or thousands of dollars to your final bill, depending on the state of your home and the scope of your project.
3. Understand Associated Labor Costs
This factor is also closely tied to the overall size of your home – painting comes with associated labor costs. Simpler projects are almost always going to be cheaper to complete compared to more complex jobs. On average, a professional painting service may charge anywhere from $1.50 to $4.00 or so per square foot, but beyond that, there may be other associated costs including preparation, supplies, the labor involved, and of course, cleanup. A high-quality finish may also cost more due to the work and time involved in getting it ready, as well as the careful attention to detail needed.
Remember, exterior painting comes with many practical benefits – not only is your home’s overall look refreshed, but you’re boosting its value! By knowing how exterior painting is priced, you can rest assured that your money is being spent wisely.
About Platinum Painting
Our team here at Platinum Painting of McKinney has assisted homeowners all across the DFW metroplex for over 15 years, offering a wide variety of services including both interior and exterior house painting. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with us to set up a FREE in-home estimate and discuss your upcoming project, please reach out online or give us a call for more information. Telephone: (469) 617-6476.