Exterior Painting Cost Guide
PaintingComplete exterior home painting including power washing, scraping, caulking, priming, and two coats of weather-resistant paint. Boost curb appeal and protect your home.
📊Showing National Average Pricing
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Small home or single-story with one color
Typical Scope:
- ✓Small ranch or single-story (1,000-1,500 sq ft)
- ✓One body color, one trim color
- ✓Basic pressure washing prep
- ✓Spot scraping and priming
- ✓Standard acrylic latex paint
- ✓Brush and roller application
- ✓Basic 5-year paint warranty
Average two-story home with proper preparation and quality paint
Typical Scope:
- ✓Two-story home (1,800-2,500 sq ft)
- ✓Body, trim, and accent colors
- ✓Complete pressure washing
- ✓Scraping, sanding, and full priming
- ✓Premium exterior acrylic paint
- ✓Caulking all gaps and seams
- ✓10-year paint warranty
Large or complex home with extensive prep and premium finishes
Typical Scope:
- ✓Large home (2,500+ sq ft) or Victorian
- ✓Multiple colors and detailed trim work
- ✓Wood repair and replacement
- ✓Complete caulking and priming
- ✓Top-tier Sherwin-Williams Duration
- ✓Spray and back-brush application
- ✓Lifetime paint warranty coverage
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does painting cost?
Professional painting costs average $5,500. Interior rooms range $300-$1,000 per room. Whole-house exterior painting runs $3,000-$8,000. Costs vary by surface condition, paint quality, and prep work needed.
How long does a painting project take?
Interior rooms take 1-2 days including prep and drying time. Whole-house interiors take 3-7 days. Exterior painting takes 2-5 days depending on size and weather. Multiple coats require drying time between applications.
Should I use primer before painting?
Yes, primer is essential for new drywall, bare wood, or drastic color changes. It improves paint adhesion, covers stains, and reduces the number of topcoats needed. Quality primer saves money in the long run.
What's the difference between paint quality levels?
Premium paints offer better coverage, durability, and washability. They often need fewer coats and last 7-10 years vs 3-5 for budget paints. For high-traffic areas and exteriors, premium paint is worth the investment.
Can I paint over wallpaper?
It's possible but not recommended. Wallpaper can bubble or peel under paint. Best practice is to remove wallpaper, repair walls, prime, then paint. If removal isn't feasible, use oil-based primer to seal the wallpaper first.
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