How Much Does It Cost To Paint a House Exterior in 2023?

Eric Trivelli
October 10, 2023

A fresh coat of paint can transform the look of your home, boosting its curb appeal and even increasing its value. But how much does it cost to paint a house exterior in 2023? This comprehensive guide will walk you through the factors that influence the cost of exterior painting, help you navigate the world of paint quality and brands, and provide tips for saving money on your painting project. Let’s dive in!

Key Takeaways

Exterior painting cost is determined by factors such as size, siding material and number of stories.
Consider the trade-off between premium and budget paint brands for best results.
Compare quotes, verify credentials & read reviews to ensure a successful exterior painting project at an affordable price.

Exterior Painting Cost Factors

The cost to paint a house exterior varies depending on several factors, including the size of your home, siding material, number of stories, and regional pricing differences in exterior house painting.

A comprehensive understanding of these factors allows for a more accurate estimation of your exterior painting project cost and aids in making informed decisions about materials, labor, and other aspects.

Size and Square Footage

One of the most significant factors affecting the average cost to paint a house exterior is the size and square footage of your home. Larger homes require more paint and labor, which translates to higher costs. Exterior painting costs typically range from $2.34 to $5.28 per square foot. This range is dependent on factors such as labor and materials.

Keep in mind that additional paint may be needed for trim, especially for homes with wood siding.

Siding Material

The type of siding material on your home also impacts the cost of exterior painting. Different materials, such as:

Wood
Vinyl
Brick
Metal
Stucco
Concrete

Different projects require varying levels of preparation, paint types, and application methods, including the use of lead paint.

For instance, painting aluminum siding typically costs between $2.22 and $3.52 per square foot, while painting vinyl siding on a two-story home can range from $5,259 to $8,388. Understanding these differences can help you budget accordingly for your specific siding material.

Number of Stories

The number of stories in your home can also influence exterior painting costs. Multi-story homes require more labor, equipment, and safety measures, which can increase costs. For example, painting a single-story house can range from $1,500 to $3,500, while a two-story house can cost between $3,000 and $6,200.

When planning your exterior painting project for a multi-story home, these additional challenges and costs should be taken into account.

Location and Regional Pricing

Finally, location and regional pricing can cause variations in exterior painting costs due to differences in labor rates and material prices. For example, cities like San Antonio, St Louis, Nashville, Oklahoma City, and Riverview, Florida, offer more economical rates for exterior painting, while states like Illinois, California, New York, Washington, and Colorado tend to have higher costs.

Keeping these factors in mind can help you better anticipate the cost of painting the exterior of your home in your region.

Exterior Paint Quality and Brands

The quality and brand of the paint you choose for your exterior painting project can greatly impact the cost, durability, and appearance of the final result. There are various paint types, finishes, and price points to consider, with premium brands often offering a longer-lasting and more durable finish.

This section covers the differences between paint types and finishes, along with the advantages and disadvantages of premium and budget paint brands.

Paint Types and Finishes

There are several paint types and finishes available for exterior painting projects, each offering different advantages and drawbacks depending on the surface being painted. One popular option is exterior acrylic latex paint, which provides a balance between performance and affordability. Common paint types also include latex, acrylic, and oil-based paints, with varying price points and performance characteristics.

The finish or sheen of a paint can also affect its cost, with higher sheen paints often being more expensive. Choosing the right paint type and finish for your specific siding material is key to achieving a durable and attractive result.

Premium vs. Budget Paint Brands

When it comes to paint brands, there are both premium and budget options available. Premium paint brands, such as Sherwin-Williams, PPG Paints, and Valspar, typically offer higher quality and durability, which can result in a longer-lasting finish that requires less maintenance over time.

On the other hand, budget paint brands like Benjamin Moore, Glidden, and Behr can be more affordable but may not offer the same level of quality and longevity. Balancing the costs and benefits of each paint brand is a crucial step in planning your exterior painting project.

Labor Costs and Prep Work

Labor costs and prep work are significant factors in exterior painting costs. Depending on the size and complexity of your project, the average cost of labor rates can range from $1.50 to $4 per square foot, or $54 to $91 per hour, depending on the state or region.

Additionally, proper preparation of the surfaces to be painted, such as cleaning, sanding, and repairing any damaged siding, can add to the overall cost of your exterior painting project. This section covers labor rates and the various preparation tasks involved in exterior painting.

Labor Rates

As mentioned earlier, labor rates for exterior painting can vary depending on your location and the experience of the painter. The professional painter hourly rates range from $20-$50 for the work plus material fees. This averages to around $200-$500 per day..

Remember that these rates can also be influenced by the complexity of the project, such as painting a multi-story home or working with intricate architectural details. Considering labor costs is a vital aspect of budgeting for your exterior painting project.

Preparation Tasks

Proper preparation is key to a successful exterior painting project, and various tasks may be required depending on the condition of your home’s exterior. These tasks can include:

Power washing
Scraping and sanding old paint
Caulking gaps
Repairing siding or window frames
Priming bare surfaces
Applying a base coat
Applying the final coat of paint

By completing these tasks, you can ensure that your exterior paint job will be long-lasting and visually appealing when you paint the exterior.

The costs of these preparation tasks can range from $0.50 to $4.00 per linear foot for caulking and masking, to $2 to $8 per square foot for scraping, sanding, and stripping old paint or siding. Be sure to account for these additional costs when planning your exterior painting project.

DIY vs. Professional Exterior Painting

Deciding whether to tackle exterior painting as a DIY project or hire professionals can be a difficult choice. DIY painting can potentially save you money on labor costs, but it requires time, effort, and additional expenses for supplies and equipment.

On the other hand, hiring professionals can ensure a faster, higher-quality result but comes at a higher cost. This section presents a comparison between DIY and professional exterior painting, discussing the costs, benefits, and drawbacks of each method.

DIY Costs and Considerations

If you want to paint the outside of your house yourself, it will cost between $400 and $1,800. This includes paint, equipment and supplies for a 1,500 square foot home and the rental of a paint sprayer up to 5 days..

Additionally, you’ll need to invest time and effort into the project, which can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks depending on your skill level and the size of your home.

These costs and considerations need to be balanced against the potential savings of undertaking the project yourself, keeping in mind how much does it cost to hire a professional for the same task.

Hiring Professionals

Hiring professionals for your exterior painting project can offer several advantages, including faster completion, superior results, and greater safety due to their experience and equipment. The cost of hiring professionals can range depending on the size of your home and the specifics of your project, but you can expect to pay between $20 and $50 per hour for professional painters.

When deciding whether to hire professionals, consider the value of your time, the quality of the final result, and the potential risks associated with DIY painting.

Additional Costs and Considerations

When planning your exterior painting project, there may be additional costs and considerations to take into account. These can include permits and regulations, equipment rental and special tools, and the potential need for repairs or cleaning prior to painting.

This section elucidates these factors to help you gain a better understanding of the true cost of your exterior painting project.

Permits and Regulations

While a permit is generally not required for exterior painting projects, there may be certain regulations or requirements depending on your location. For example, some states may require painters to have a license or a certain amount of experience.

Additionally, if you live in a community with a homeowners association (HOA), they may have specific rules or guidelines related to exterior painting. Researching and adhering to any applicable permits and regulations is crucial to avoid potential issues or fines.

Equipment Rental and Special Tools

Whether you’re taking on a DIY project or hiring professionals, there may be equipment rental and special tools required for your exterior painting project. Necessary equipment can include:

Scaffolding or ladders
Paint sprayers
Drop cloths
Surface-prep tools
And more

These items can be rented from home improvement stores like Home Depot or Lowe’s, but keep in mind that these costs can add up and should be factored into your overall budget.

Tips for Saving on Exterior Painting Costs

There are several ways to save on exterior painting costs without sacrificing quality or durability. Some tips for saving money on your project include choosing the right time of year to paint, selecting appropriate materials, and comparing quotes from multiple painters.

This section provides further information on these tips to help you maximize your exterior painting budget.

Timing and Seasonality

The time of year you choose to paint your house exterior can have a significant impact on the cost and quality of your project. Optimal painting weather is warm and dry, typically during late spring, summer, or early fall. Painting during these months can help ensure a better result, as:

Extreme temperatures can cause the paint to dry too quickly or not adhere properly.
High humidity can cause the paint to take longer to dry and result in a less durable finish.
Rain can wash away wet paint and cause streaks or water damage.

By choosing the right time of year to paint, you can avoid these potential issues and achieve a long-lasting, professional-looking paint job.

Additionally, consider avoiding holidays or peak times when contractors may charge higher rates or be unavailable.

Material Selection

Selecting the appropriate materials for your exterior painting project can also help save money in the long run. High-quality paints and materials may be more expensive upfront, but they can provide a longer-lasting and more durable finish that requires less maintenance over time.

Be sure to research the best paint types, finishes, and brands for your specific siding material and consider the potential long-term savings of investing in higher-quality materials.

How to Choose a Professional Painter

Choosing the right professional painter for your exterior painting project is crucial for a successful outcome. This section offers tips on comparing quotes, verifying credentials, and reading reviews to help you find the best painter for your project.

Comparing Quotes

When sifting through quotes from various painters, analyzing the quality of the materials, the painter’s experience, and the project cost is vital. Be sure to ask about surface preparation, warranty details, and any additional services included in the quoted price.

By comparing quotes and services, you can find the best price and service for your exterior painting needs.

Checking Credentials and Reviews

Checking a painter’s credentials and reading reviews from previous clients is a crucial step before hiring them. This can provide insight into their experience, reliability, and quality of work.

Don’t hesitate to ask for references and verify the painter’s liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage. By thoroughly checking credentials and reviews, you can ensure a successful and stress-free exterior painting project.

Summary

In conclusion, the cost to paint a house exterior in 2023 can vary greatly based on factors such as size, siding material, location, and paint quality. By understanding these factors, considering DIY vs. professional painting options, and making informed decisions about materials and labor, you can successfully plan your exterior painting project and maximize your budget. With the right preparation and knowledge, you can transform your home’s exterior and boost its curb appeal, all while staying within your budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much paint do I need for a 2000 square foot house exterior?

For a 2000 square foot house, you will need approximately 6 gallons of paint to cover two coats. It is recommended to use the highest quality paint that your budget allows.

How long does it take to paint a 1500 square foot house exterior?

On average, it takes around four days to paint a 1,500 square foot house exterior when three painters are working on it simultaneously.

What is the best time to paint house exterior?

The best time to paint your house exterior is in the spring or fall when the temperatures are more moderate, between 65 and 90 F.