The Breakdown on Exterior House Painting Costs for Your Dream Home

You’ve finally decided to give your home a fresh new look, and what better way to do that than a fresh coat of paint? But before you start imagining the possibilities, let’s talk turkey – exterior house painting costs can add up quickly. In this article, we’ll break down the average exterior house painting costs, so you can plan your budget and make informed decisions.

Factors Affecting Exterior House Painting Costs

Exterior house painting costs vary widely depending on several factors, including:

Size of the House

The larger the house, the more paint you’ll need, and the longer it’ll take to complete the job. This translates to higher exterior house painting costs. On average, a small house (less than 1,000 square feet) can cost between $1,500 to $3,000 to paint, while a large house (over 3,000 square feet) can cost upwards of $6,000 to $10,000.

Type of Paint

The type of paint you choose can significantly impact exterior house painting costs. High-quality, 100% acrylic latex paint can cost around $30 to $50 per gallon, while low-cost options may start at around $15 per gallon. However, keep in mind that cheaper paint may not last as long or look as good as more expensive options.

Number of Stories

If your house has multiple stories, you’ll need to factor in the cost of scaffolding or a cherry picker to reach the upper levels. This can add an additional $500 to $2,000 to your exterior house painting costs, depending on the height of the house.

Condition of the Surface

If the surface of your house is damaged or rough, you may need to factor in the cost of repairs or sanding before painting. This can add anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars to your exterior house painting costs.

Average Exterior House Painting Costs by Type of House

Here are some average exterior house painting costs based on the type of house:

Single-Story House

Ranch-style house (1,000-2,000 square feet): $2,000 to $4,000

Single-story house with a garage (1,500-3,000 square feet): $3,000 to $6,000

Two-Story House

Small two-story house (1,500-3,000 square feet): $3,500 to $6,500
Medium two-story house (2,500-4,000 square feet): $5,000 to $10,000

Victorian-Style House

Small Victorian-style house (2,000-3,500 square feet): $4,000 to $8,000
Large Victorian-style house (3,500-6,000 square feet): $7,000 to $14,000

Brick House

Small brick house (1,000-2,000 square feet): $2,500 to $4,500
Medium brick house (2,000-4,000 square feet): $4,500 to $8,000

Labor Costs for Exterior House Painting

Labor costs can make up a significant portion of your exterior house painting costs. The cost of labor will depend on the location, experience, and efficiency of the painter or painting crew.

On average, labor costs for exterior house painting can range from $200 to $500 per day, depending on the complexity of the job and the number of workers involved.

Materials Needed for Exterior House Painting

Here’s a breakdown of the materials you’ll need for exterior house painting:

Paint: $500 to $2,000
Brushes and rollers: $100 to $300
Drop cloths and tarps: $100 to $300
Sandpaper and power wash: $100 to $300
Scaffolding and ladders: $500 to $2,000

Tips for Reducing Exterior House Painting Costs

Shop around for paint: Compare prices at different hardware stores and online retailers to find the best deals on paint.
Consider DIY: If you’re comfortable with heights and have some experience with painting, you can save money by doing it yourself.
Use lower-cost options: Consider using lower-cost paint or materials, but keep in mind that they may not last as long.
Hire a local painter: Local painters may offer better rates than larger painting companies.
Paint in the off-season: Painting in the off-season (usually fall or spring) can help you save money on labor costs.

Conclusion

Exterior house painting costs can vary widely depending on several factors, including the size of the house, type of paint, number of stories, and condition of the surface. By understanding these factors and using the tips outlined above, you can reduce your exterior house painting costs and achieve your dream home.

Average Exterior House Painting Costs

Small house (less than 1,000 square feet): $1,500 to $3,000
Medium house (1,000-3,000 square feet): $3,000 to $6,000
Large house (over 3,000 square feet): $6,000 to $10,000

Final Thoughts on Exterior House Painting Costs

Remember, exterior house painting costs are just one part of the equation. Be sure to also consider the long-term benefits of painting your house, including increased curb appeal, protection from the elements, and improved energy efficiency.