Exterior Residential Painting Cost: What You Should Know Before You Paint

If you’ve ever looked at your home’s exterior and thought, “Maybe it’s time for a fresh coat of paint,” you’re not alone. Many homeowners wonder about the cost of exterior painting, but the answers aren’t always clear. It’s one of those things you need to research, plan for, and ultimately budget. And the last thing you want is to be blindsided by unexpected costs.

At Roe Painting, we’ve been in the business for over 25 years, helping homeowners transform their spaces with high-quality, long-lasting exterior painting. Over the years, we’ve seen it all—from small bungalows to multi-level homes—and we know exactly what factors influence the cost of your project.

By the end of this blog, you’ll have a clear understanding of the pricing process and feel confident in making the best decision for your home.

Why Are Exterior Painting Costs So Confusing?

If you’ve been trying to get a straightforward answer about how much it will cost to paint your house, you’ve probably been frustrated. Maybe you’ve gotten a few quotes that are all over the map. One company says $5,500, and another says $10,000. What gives?

The truth is several factors can influence the price of exterior residential painting. Not all painters are transparent about these factors, but we’re here to simplify it.

Breaking Down the Costs: What Really Goes Into Exterior Painting?

At Roe Painting, we believe in being upfront about the costs of your project. Depending on different elements, like the size of the home and type of paint, a project can range from $5,000 to $10,000. Here are the key factors:

1. Size of Your Home

The size of your home is one of the most significant factors in determining the overall cost. A larger home requires more paint and labor, naturally increasing the price. The complexity of the project can also play a role. Homes with intricate trim work, multiple stories, or unique architectural details take more time and effort to paint, which can increase the cost.

For a typical 1,500 to 2,000-square-foot, single-story home, a one-coat exterior repaint can cost between $5,500 to $6,500. If you want two coats for better durability and coverage, expect a 25% increase, bringing the total to around $6,800 to $8,000.

For a 2,000 to 3,000-square-foot, two-story home, a one-coat repaint will likely cost between $6,500 and $8,000, while a two-coat job increases the price to $8,000 to $10,000.

If your home is 4,000 square feet or larger, single or multi-level, a one-coat repaint starts at $10,000, with a two-coat job pushing that figure to around $12,500.

2. Condition of Your Current Paint

Prep work is essential and can significantly affect the cost. If your exterior paint is peeling, cracked, or flaking, we must remove the old paint and adequately prepare the surface before applying a new coat. The better condition your current paint is in, the lower your costs will be.

For homes requiring extensive prep work, the price will rise due to the additional labor involved in scraping, sanding, or repairing damaged areas before painting can begin.

3. Type and Quality of Paint

Not all paints are created equal. High-quality paints like Sherwin-Williams Duration or Rodda’s Ultimate II offer better durability and UV resistance, meaning you won’t need to repaint your home as frequently. These premium paints come with warranties, providing peace of mind, but they do add to the overall cost.

At Roe Painting, we recommend higher-quality paints for long-lasting results. ntry-level paints like SuperPaint by Sherwin-Williams or CoverCoat by Rodda, are great options if price is the primary consideration.

4. Number of Coats

The number of coats needed depends on your current paint’s condition and desired finish. A more thorough, long-lasting paint job will require at least two coats.

As mentioned earlier, a one-coat job for a 2,000 sq. ft. home might cost $6,500 to $8,000, but adding a second coat could increase that price by 25%, bringing it to $8,000 to $10,000.

5. Labor Costs

You’re not just paying for paint—you’re paying for skilled professionals who know how to handle ladders, scaffolding, and the precise work of painting a home’s exterior. Labor costs can vary based on the contractor’s experience and the quality of work they deliver.

At Roe Painting, we pride ourselves on the expertise of our team. We don’t rush through the job or cut corners. Our painters are fully vetted with background checks and drug screenings to ensure you get the best team working on your home. Additionally, we offer the best benefits in the industry, ultimately attracting the best technicians in the industry to our team.

6. Location Matters

Where you live can also influence the cost. Homes in areas with a higher cost of living might pay more for labor and materials than those in less expensive regions. The weather can also affect the price; harsh conditions like strong sunlight, wind, or rain can mean that your home needs more frequent repainting, leading to higher overall maintenance costs.

Real-World Example: The Cost Breakdown for a 2,000 sq. ft. Home

Let’s say you own a 2,000 sq. ft., two-story home in Boise, Idaho. The current paint is in decent shape but fading, and you want a fresh new look.

Size of the home: 2,000 sq. ft.

Condition of paint: Minimal prep work

Paint type: Mid-range quality paint like Duration by Sherwin-Williams

Number of coats: 2 coats for more extended durability

Labor: Skilled professional crew

A one-coat repaint costs about $6,500 to $8,000, but if you opt for a second coat for added protection, your total cost will increase to around $8,000 to $10,000. Remember, these numbers are ballpark figures. To get an accurate price, we’d need to visit your property for an on-site evaluation and customize a quote based on your home’s unique characteristics.

How to Budget for Your Exterior Painting Project

Here’s what we recommend to help you budget effectively:

• Get Multiple Quotes: Reach out to several professional painters for estimates. Compare their quotes, but be wary of unusually low prices—they could indicate subpar materials or craftsmanship.
• Look for Transparency: Choose a company like Roe Painting that provides a clear breakdown of costs. You should know precisely what you’re paying for, including prep work, materials, and labor.
• Plan for Quality: Invest in high-quality paint and skilled professionals to ensure your home’s exterior looks fantastic for years to come.
• Ask About Warranties: Always ask about warranties and guarantees to ensure you’re covered if any issues arise after the paint job is complete.

Why Choose Roe Painting?

At Roe Painting, we’ve spent years perfecting the art of exterior painting. We understand that your home is more than just a structure—it’s where you make memories and find comfort. Our skilled professionals take pride in every project, ensuring that your home’s exterior is protected and looks its best.

Plus, we go the extra mile. Every member of our team is vetted and trained to the highest standards. We don’t cut corners, and we only use the best materials. With Roe Painting, you can trust that your home is in good hands.

Ready for a Fresh Look?

If your home is ready for a fresh coat of paint, let Roe Painting help bring your vision to life. Our team will guide you through the entire process, from selecting the right colors to ensuring every detail is perfect.

Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote, and visit RoePaint.com to explore our services. Don’t just repaint—RoePaint!

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