7 Cost Factors for House Painting You Should Know

So, you’re thinking about a fresh coat of paint for your home. The first question is always, how much does it cost to paint a house exterior? It’s a big project that can totally change your curb appeal. But remember, painting is a recurring maintenance cost you’ll face every five to ten years. To help you make an informed choice, we’re breaking down all the key cost factors for house painting—from labor and materials to those hidden expenses. We’ll also see how this investment compares to long-term solutions like modern siding, so you can choose the best path for your home.

Key Takeaways

• Understand What’s Really in Your Quote: The final price is influenced more by labor and prep work than the paint itself. Factors like your home’s height, architectural details, and the current condition of your siding will have the biggest impact on the cost.
• Don’t Let the Lowest Bid Fool You: A quote that seems too good to be true often signals corner-cutting on prep work or the use of low-grade materials. Investing in a quality paint job from a reputable professional is the best way to ensure a beautiful finish that protects your home for years.
• Be Proactive to Keep Costs in Check: You can effectively manage your budget by getting at least three detailed estimates, asking contractors what isn’t included in their price, and handling simple prep tasks like clearing landscaping yourself.

How Much Does It Cost to Paint a House Exterior?

Giving your home a fresh coat of paint is one of the most effective ways to update its look and protect it from the elements. But before you start picking out colors, it’s smart to get a handle on the potential cost. On average, you can expect to pay between $3,000 and $5,000 for a professional exterior painting project. Of course, this is just a ballpark figure, and the final price can swing quite a bit depending on your specific home and needs.

To get more specific, most painters price their work by the square foot. According to industry data, this can range from $1.50 to $4.30 per square foot. This means for larger homes or projects requiring extensive prep work and premium materials, the total cost can easily range from $5,000 to $10,000. These figures help illustrate why getting a detailed quote based on your home’s unique characteristics is so important.

While new paint provides a great refresh, it’s a maintenance task you’ll likely repeat every five to ten years. If you’re looking for a lower-maintenance, long-term solution for your home’s exterior, it might be worth exploring modern residential siding. Materials like James Hardie fiber cement offer lasting durability and come in a huge variety of pre-finished colors, which can save you from future painting costs altogether. Ultimately, these numbers are a starting point, and the true cost depends on several key factors.

More Than Just Curb Appeal: The Benefits of Exterior Paint

While the cost is a critical piece of the puzzle, understanding the value you get in return is just as important. A professional exterior paint job is more than a simple cosmetic update; it’s a crucial investment in your home’s health and longevity. Think of it as a protective shield for your property. The right paint, applied correctly, safeguards your home from the constant barrage of weather, moisture, and pests that can cause significant damage over time. It’s your first line of defense against the elements, preserving the structural integrity of your siding and trim. This proactive maintenance helps you avoid much larger, more expensive repairs down the road.

Beyond protection, a fresh coat of paint has a powerful impact on your home’s value. It instantly revitalizes your property’s appearance, making it more attractive to potential buyers and simply more enjoyable for you. This isn’t just about feeling good; it translates to real financial gains. A well-maintained exterior is a clear signal to the market that a home has been cared for, which can directly influence its sale price and how quickly it sells. So, while you’re budgeting for the project, remember that you’re not just spending money—you’re investing in your home’s durability, beauty, and overall worth.

Protection From Weather and Pests

Here in the Pacific Northwest, our homes face a lot of moisture. A quality coat of paint acts as a crucial barrier, sealing the exterior surfaces to prevent water from seeping into the wood or siding. This simple layer helps stop rot, decay, and mold growth before they can start, which is essential for maintaining your home’s structural health. Furthermore, paint provides a layer of defense against pests. It helps protect vulnerable wood from insects like termites and carpenter ants that can cause hidden, costly damage. Some modern paints even include additives specifically designed to deter these unwanted guests, giving you an extra layer of security.

Increased Home Value and Structural Integrity

There’s no denying the immediate visual impact of a freshly painted home. That enhanced curb appeal directly translates into increased property value. According to real estate experts, exterior painting offers one of the highest returns on investment of any home improvement project. A clean, modern exterior makes a strong first impression, which can not only increase your home’s market value but also make it more appealing to a wider range of buyers if you decide to sell. By protecting your home from moisture and pests, the paint also preserves its structural integrity, ensuring your investment remains sound for years to come.

What Determines the Cost of House Painting?

When you get a quote for an exterior paint job, the final number isn’t just pulled out of thin air. Several key factors contribute to the total cost, from the size of your house to the type of paint you choose. Understanding these elements will help you read estimates with confidence and see exactly where your money is going. Let’s break down what goes into that final number.

Home Size and Square Footage

It’s no surprise that the bigger your home, the more it will cost to paint. A larger surface area requires more paint and, more importantly, more hours of labor to cover. But it’s not just about square footage. The height of your home plays a big role, too. A two- or three-story house requires ladders, scaffolding, and extra safety precautions, all of which add to the complexity and cost of the job. Homes with intricate architectural details also take more time to paint carefully, which will be reflected in the quote.

The Condition of Your Siding and Prep Work

The current state of your home’s exterior is one of the biggest variables in your painting budget. If your existing paint is peeling, cracked, or bubbling, a painter can’t just cover it up. Proper preparation—which includes scraping, sanding, washing, and priming—is essential for a lasting finish. This prep work is labor-intensive and can significantly increase the cost. In some cases, extensive prep work can reveal that the underlying residential siding is damaged beyond what a coat of paint can fix, which might mean a different kind of project is needed for a long-term solution.

Paint Quality: Is It Worth the Splurge?

When it comes to paint, you really do get what you pay for. While it might be tempting to opt for a cheaper can of paint to lower upfront costs, it can cost you more down the road. High-quality paints offer better coverage, superior durability, and greater resistance to fading and weather damage—a must-have in the damp Puget Sound climate. A premium paint job will protect your home’s exterior for years longer than a budget option, meaning you won’t have to repaint as soon. Always ask your painter what grade of paint is included in their estimate.

Common Exterior Paint Types

When you’re choosing an exterior paint, you’ll mainly find two options: acrylic latex and oil-based. While oil-based paints have been around for a long time, modern acrylic latex formulas are now the top choice for most professionals, especially here in the Pacific Northwest. They offer fantastic durability, hold their color better against the sun, and have more flexibility. This flexibility is key, as it allows the paint to expand and contract with your siding during temperature shifts, which helps prevent cracking and peeling. Investing in a high-quality acrylic paint gives your home superior resistance to the damp Puget Sound climate, protecting it for years longer than a budget option and saving you from having to repaint as often.

Understanding Paint Finishes

Once you’ve picked a color, you’ll also need to select a finish, also known as a sheen. This choice affects how much light the paint reflects and is crucial for both appearance and durability. The spectrum runs from flat or matte, which has no shine, to high-gloss, which is very reflective. A flat finish is excellent for hiding minor imperfections on older siding, but it’s the least durable and can be tough to clean. On the other hand, a high-gloss finish is incredibly tough and easy to wipe down, making it ideal for high-touch surfaces like doors, trim, and window frames. For the main body of your house, most homeowners choose a satin or eggshell finish, as it provides the perfect balance of a low-key look with solid durability.

How Your Location Affects Labor Costs

Labor is the largest component of any painting estimate, often making up 70% to 80% of the total cost. Professional painters typically charge by the square foot, with rates varying based on your location. Costs in the Redmond area will reflect the regional cost of living and demand for skilled tradespeople. The weather can also play a part; the short, prime painting season in the Pacific Northwest can sometimes influence scheduling and pricing. A reputable contractor will provide a clear breakdown of their labor charges in your quote.

Architectural Details and Complexity

A simple, rectangular house is much faster and easier to paint than one with complex architectural features. Details like gables, dormers, decorative trim, and numerous windows all add to the time and skill required. Painting trim is often more expensive per square foot than painting the main siding because it requires precise, careful hand-painting with a brush rather than a faster sprayer. The more corners, edges, and details your home has, the more time a painter will need to spend, which will be factored into the labor costs.

Number of Coats Required

Your color choice does more than just set the mood—it also influences the project’s bottom line. If you’re planning a dramatic color change, like painting a dark color over a light one or vice versa, you’ll likely need more coats of paint to get full, even coverage. Each additional coat adds to the total cost, as it requires more paint and more of the painter’s time. While a high-quality primer is a non-negotiable first step that helps create a uniform base, it can’t always eliminate the need for a second or even third finish coat. This is especially true with deep, rich colors or when trying to cover a bold color with a pale neutral. A professional painter can give you an accurate estimate of the materials needed based on your color selection.

Time of Year and Scheduling

The time of year you choose to paint your house can have a real impact on the price. In the Pacific Northwest, the dry, sunny days of spring and summer are the high season for exterior work. With everyone trying to book a painter during this prime window, demand is high, and prices can reflect that. You might find better pricing or more scheduling flexibility during slower periods. If your project isn’t urgent, consider booking for the early fall. You might be able to secure a better rate and still get the job done before the rainy season sets in. Planning ahead can be a simple way to manage your budget without compromising on quality.

How Do Painters Price a Job?

When you start collecting quotes for your exterior paint job, you’ll notice that different painters might structure their pricing in slightly different ways. Most professionals rely on a few standard methods to build their estimates. Understanding how they calculate their fees will help you compare quotes accurately and choose the best contractor for your project. The most common approaches include pricing by the square foot, offering a flat rate for the entire project, or providing a detailed breakdown of materials and labor. Often, a final quote is a blend of these methods, tailored to the specific needs of your home.

A transparent quote should always clearly outline what’s included, from prep work and paint to labor and cleanup. This clarity ensures there are no surprises down the line and helps you understand exactly what you’re paying for. Let’s look at the main ways painters determine the cost of transforming your home’s exterior.

A Detailed Breakdown of a Painter’s Estimate

A professional painter’s estimate is much more than just the cost of paint and a few hours of work. A thorough quote breaks down the price into several key components, giving you a clear picture of where your money is going. Typically, this includes the cost of materials (paint, primer, caulk), the direct labor involved in the project, and a portion of the company’s overhead expenses. Finally, a healthy business will include a profit margin. Understanding these four pillars will help you see the value in a comprehensive quote and spot red flags in bids that seem unusually low.

Labor Costs

Labor is almost always the biggest piece of the puzzle, making up a significant 70% to 80% of the total project cost. This line item covers the wages for the skilled professionals who will be prepping and painting your home. The total labor cost is influenced by the amount of prep work needed, the complexity of your home’s architecture, and the crew’s experience level. A contractor who invests in a well-trained, professional team will factor those fair wages into their price, which is a good sign you’re hiring a company that values quality and craftsmanship. This is the hands-on work that ensures a beautiful, lasting finish.

Overhead and Business Expenses

Overhead costs are the essential expenses a contractor pays just to stay in business, and they aren’t tied to one specific job. Think of things like liability insurance, vehicle maintenance, office rent, marketing, and high-quality equipment. These are the fundamental costs of doing business that allow a company to operate legally and professionally. When you see these factored into your quote, it’s a sign of a legitimate and stable company. A contractor who doesn’t account for overhead might be cutting corners on crucial things like insurance, which puts you and your property at risk. These expenses ensure the company operates reliably.

Profit Margin

It’s easy to see the word “profit” and think of it as just extra money for the business owner, but it plays a much more important role. Profit is what allows a painting company to be sustainable and grow. It’s the funding source for investing in better equipment, providing ongoing training for employees, and having the financial stability to stand behind their work and honor warranties. A company that doesn’t build a reasonable profit margin into its pricing may not be around in a few years if you have an issue. A healthy profit ensures the contractor can continue to provide high-quality service to future customers, including you.

Understanding Per-Square-Foot Pricing

One of the most common ways painters estimate a job is by the square foot. This method is straightforward: they measure the paintable surface area of your home’s exterior and multiply it by a set rate. The typical rates generally fall between $1.50 and $4 per square foot.

This range accounts for several variables. A simple, smooth surface will be on the lower end of the scale, while a home with intricate details, textured siding, or surfaces that require extensive prep work will be on the higher end. The number of coats and the type of paint chosen also play a role. While this method provides a good baseline, it’s often just the starting point for a more comprehensive project quote.

When to Expect a Flat-Rate Quote

For whole-house painting projects, many contractors prefer to offer a flat-rate price. This single figure covers the entire scope of the job, from initial prep to final cleanup. The average cost for painting a home’s exterior typically lands between $3,000 and $5,000, but this can vary widely depending on your home’s size, architectural complexity, and location.

The biggest advantage of a flat-rate price is its predictability. You know the total cost upfront, which makes budgeting much simpler. Just be sure the contract clearly details everything included in that price—the specific areas to be painted, the brand and quality of paint, the extent of prep work, and the number of coats—to avoid any misunderstandings later on.

How Much Goes to Labor vs. Materials?

Regardless of how a painter presents the final number, every quote is built on two fundamental components: materials and labor. A detailed estimate will often break these down so you can see where your money is going.

Labor is usually the largest portion of the bill, covering the time and skill of the painting crew for preparation, painting, and cleanup. Material costs include more than just the paint itself. When estimating the cost of a job, painters must account for primer, caulk, spackle for repairs, masking tape, rollers, brushes, and safety equipment. Understanding this breakdown helps you appreciate the full scope of the work and the value a professional team brings to the project.

A Closer Look: How House Size Impacts Your Quote

It probably comes as no surprise that the biggest factor in your exterior painting bill is the size of your house. A larger home has more surface area, which means painters need more paint, more primer, and more time to get the job done. It’s not just about the floor plan’s square footage, but the total paintable area of your exterior walls. Think about it: a sprawling single-story ranch might have the same square footage as a compact two-story colonial, but their paintable surface areas—and therefore their painting costs—could be very different.

The number of stories also plays a huge role. Taller homes require ladders, scaffolding, and extra safety precautions, all of which add to the labor costs. When you get a quote, the painter is calculating all of this: the total wall area, the complexity of the layout, and the equipment needed to reach every nook and cranny safely. Understanding how size and height break down can help you make sense of the estimates you receive and see exactly where your money is going.

Painting Costs for Small Homes (Under 1,500 sq ft)

If you have a smaller home, generally under 1,500 square feet, you can expect the painting cost to be on the lower end of the spectrum. These projects are more straightforward because they require less paint and fewer labor hours. A small, dedicated crew can often complete the job in just a few days. However, keep in mind that the final price still depends on the condition of your exterior. If your siding has peeling paint or damage, painters will need to spend extra time on prep work like scraping, sanding, and making repairs. This is why it’s important to maintain your home’s exterior; healthy residential siding provides a better canvas for new paint.

Painting Costs for Medium Homes (1,500-2,500 sq ft)

For medium-sized homes, which typically fall between 1,500 and 2,500 square feet, you’ll see a noticeable step up in cost. The increase is a direct result of the larger surface area. More walls mean the crew will use significantly more paint and primer, and the project will take longer to complete from start to finish. A team of painters might spend the better part of a week on a home this size, especially if it involves detailed trim work or multiple colors. The prep work phase also becomes more extensive, as there’s simply more surface to clean, scrape, and prime before the first coat of paint can even be applied.

Painting Costs for Large Homes (Over 2,500 sq ft)

Once you move into the category of large homes—those over 2,500 square feet—painting costs can climb substantially. These projects are a major undertaking that requires a larger crew, more materials, and careful planning. Very large or custom homes with complex architectural features like gables, dormers, and intricate trim will be at the higher end of the price range. The sheer scale of the job means more time spent on every single phase, from initial prep and pressure washing to the final coat and cleanup. For these larger projects, getting a detailed, itemized quote is essential to understand the full scope of the work involved.

Why Multi-Story Homes Cost More to Paint

The height of your home is almost as important as its square footage when calculating painting costs. A single-story home is the simplest and most affordable to paint because the entire exterior is easily accessible from the ground or a small ladder. When you add a second or third story, the complexity and risk increase dramatically. Painters need to use tall extension ladders, scaffolding, or even boom lifts to safely reach the upper levels. This specialized safety equipment and the additional time it takes to set up and move it around your property are factored directly into the labor costs, which is why a multi-story home always costs more to paint than a single-story home of the same square footage.

Is Exterior Painting a Tax-Deductible Expense?

When you’re investing a significant amount of money into your home, it’s natural to wonder if you can get a little back at tax time. The question of whether exterior painting is tax-deductible is a common one, but the answer is usually no for a primary residence. The IRS makes a clear distinction between routine maintenance and capital improvements, and unfortunately, a fresh coat of paint almost always falls into the maintenance category. While it definitely adds value and protects your home, it’s not seen as an upgrade that fundamentally changes the property or extends its life in the way a new roof or an addition would. Understanding this difference is key to managing your expectations for the financial side of your project.

Understanding Capital Improvements vs. Maintenance

So, what’s the difference? A capital improvement is a major project that adds substantial value to your home or extends its useful life. Think of things like replacing all your windows, adding a deck, or installing a new HVAC system. These types of upgrades can increase your home’s “cost basis”—the total amount you’ve invested in it—which can lower your tax bill when you eventually sell. Maintenance, on the other hand, is work done to keep your property in good condition. This includes tasks like fixing a leaky faucet, repairing a broken step, and, yes, painting the exterior. While a standalone paint job isn’t a capital improvement, it’s still one of the best investments you can make for your home’s protection and curb appeal.

Should You DIY or Hire a Professional Painter?

Deciding whether to paint your house yourself or bring in a professional is one of the biggest choices you’ll make. The appeal of saving money with a DIY project is strong, and it can be a rewarding experience if you have the skills. However, painting a home’s exterior is a massive undertaking that requires more than just a few paint cans and a free weekend. It demands significant time, physical effort, and a good amount of skill to get a finish that not only looks great but also properly protects your home from the elements.

Before you commit, it’s important to look beyond the initial price tag. You need to weigh the cost of materials against the value of your time, your experience level, and the quality of the final result you’re aiming for. A professional job might cost more upfront, but it can save you from costly mistakes, future repairs, and the stress of a project gone wrong. Let’s break down the key factors to help you make the right choice for your home and your budget.

The Cost Breakdown: Pro Painter vs. DIY

On the surface, the financial savings of a DIY paint job are clear. Recent exterior house painting cost estimates show that a DIY project can run from $500 to $2,400 for supplies, while hiring a professional typically costs between $3,000 and $5,000 or more. The DIY price covers materials like paint, primer, brushes, and rollers. However, it often doesn’t account for equipment rentals like a power washer or scaffolding, which can add up quickly. A professional quote includes not only materials but also labor, insurance, and the expertise to get the job done efficiently and correctly, ensuring a lasting finish that protects your investment.

Will a Pro Paint Job Last Longer?

The longevity of your paint job depends heavily on two things: the quality of the paint and the quality of the prep work. While it might be tempting to choose a cheaper paint to save money, professionals know that higher-quality paints provide better coverage and protection, lasting years longer. The cost of exterior house painting is often tied to the quality of the materials used, as premium paints are formulated to withstand harsh weather. Professionals also have the experience to properly prepare every surface by scraping, sanding, and priming. This meticulous prep work is what ensures the paint adheres correctly and won’t start chipping or peeling after just a season or two.

What’s Your Time and Effort Worth?

Painting your home’s exterior is a demanding job that can easily consume several weekends, or even weeks, of your free time. Ask yourself honestly: do you have the time to dedicate to thorough prep, painting, and cleanup? It’s also a project that involves working at heights, which carries inherent risks. Professionals have the right safety equipment and training to work on ladders and scaffolding without issue. As one industry report puts it, “If you have a tight budget and lots of time, DIY can save money. But for a long-lasting, professional look without the stress and danger, hiring a pro is usually the better choice.” Ultimately, paying a professional buys you peace of mind and a guaranteed high-quality result.

Common House Painting Budget Mistakes to Avoid

Creating a budget for an exterior paint job feels like trying to hit a moving target. With so many variables, it’s easy to miss a few key details that can throw your numbers off. A little planning goes a long way in preventing surprise costs and ensuring you get a beautiful, lasting finish. By steering clear of a few common financial traps, you can approach your project with confidence and keep your budget on track from start to finish. It’s all about knowing what to look for and what questions to ask before you sign a contract.

Forgetting to Budget for Prep Work

It’s easy to focus on the final color, but the prep work is what makes or breaks a paint job. This is also one of the most frequently overlooked expenses. Getting your home’s exterior ready for paint involves more than just a quick rinse. It can include power washing, scraping off old and flaking paint, sanding rough spots, and making minor repairs. This also includes carefully taping and protecting your home’s windows and trim. Depending on the condition of your home, these essential steps can add a significant amount to your total bill. Think of it as the foundation of your project—if it’s not solid, the final product won’t hold up.

Automatically Choosing the Lowest Bid

When you have several quotes in hand, the lowest number can be incredibly tempting. But a price that seems too good to be true often is. A significantly cheaper bid might be a red flag for low-quality paint, an inexperienced crew, or a contractor who cuts corners on crucial prep work. While you might save money upfront, you could end up paying more in the long run with a paint job that peels or fades prematurely. Instead of focusing solely on the price, consider the value. A quality contractor using premium materials will deliver a finish that not only looks better but also protects your home for years to come.

Not Getting Enough Competing Quotes

Don’t settle for the first estimate you receive. To get a clear and fair picture of what your project should cost, you should always get at least three different quotes from reputable painters. This process isn’t just about price shopping. It’s your chance to meet different contractors, ask questions, and see who you feel most comfortable working with. Comparing detailed, written estimates helps you understand what’s included—from the type of paint to the extent of prep work—so you can make a truly informed decision. It’s the best way to ensure you’re getting a fair market price for high-quality work.

Overlooking Potential Hidden Costs

A painter’s initial estimate doesn’t always cover every single expense that might pop up. There are several potential costs that can catch you by surprise if you’re not prepared. For example, if the crew discovers rotted wood or damaged siding during prep work, you’ll need to budget for repairs. Other unexpected expenses can include fees for local permits, sales tax on materials, or the extra cost of safely handling hazardous materials like lead paint. Before you agree to a price, ask your contractor what isn’t included in the quote. This simple question can save you from major budget overruns down the line.

Not Verifying Your Contractor’s Credentials

One of the most critical steps you can take before signing a contract is to verify your painter’s credentials. A reputable contractor will always be licensed and insured, and this isn’t just a formality—it’s your primary protection. Insurance covers any accidental damage to your property and protects you from liability if a worker is injured on the job. The Federal Trade Commission advises homeowners to not only ask for proof of insurance but to call the insurance company to confirm that the policy is current. Skipping this step leaves you financially vulnerable and is a risk you shouldn’t take with an investment as significant as your home.

Beyond the legal protections, a contractor’s willingness to provide their credentials speaks volumes about their professionalism. A trustworthy painter will be happy to show you their license, proof of insurance, and a portfolio of their past work. If a contractor is hesitant or makes excuses, consider it a major red flag. This due diligence helps you avoid unqualified crews and ensures you’re partnering with a professional who stands behind their work. Taking a few minutes to check these details is a simple way to guarantee peace of mind and a high-quality, lasting finish for your home’s exterior.

How to Save Money on Exterior Painting

A fresh coat of paint is one of the most effective ways to update your home’s look and protect its exterior. While it’s a worthwhile investment, the cost can add up. The good news is that with a bit of planning, you can manage your budget without sacrificing a high-quality, long-lasting finish. Here are a few practical strategies to help you save money on your exterior painting project.

Always Get Several Detailed Bids

Before you hire a painter, it’s smart to get written price quotes from several trusted professionals. Prices can be very different from one painter to another, so gathering a few estimates is the best way to understand the market rate in your area. Don’t just look at the final number; ask for a detailed breakdown that includes the cost of labor, materials, and specific prep work. This helps you compare offers accurately and ensures there are no surprises down the road.

Schedule Your Paint Job in the Off-Season

If your painting project isn’t urgent, scheduling it during the off-season can lead to significant savings. Painters are busiest during the warm, dry months of spring and summer. In the late fall or early winter, demand slows down, and you might get a discount if you schedule your project then. Booking during a slower period gives you more flexibility and can make it easier to secure a great contractor without the long wait times.

Tackle Some of the Prep Work Yourself

Labor is a major part of any painting bill, so you can save money by handling some of the initial prep work. Simple tasks like trimming back bushes, pressure washing the siding, or scraping off old, loose paint can cut down on the hours your painter needs to bill. Proper preparation is crucial for a paint job that looks good and lasts a long time, so be sure you’re comfortable with the tasks you take on. Even a little effort can make a big difference in the final cost.

Select the Best Paint for Your Budget

It can be tempting to choose the cheapest paint available, but this can cost you more in the long run. Better quality paints often cost more upfront but last longer and protect your home better from the elements. Spending a bit more on good paint means your new finish will be more durable, fade-resistant, and less likely to chip or peel. This investment can extend the life of your paint job by years, saving you from having to repaint sooner.

Final Considerations Before You Hire a Painter

You’ve done the hard work of setting a budget, gathering quotes, and finding a contractor you trust. Before the crew shows up and the work begins, there are a couple of final details to lock in that will have a big impact on your satisfaction with the project. These last decisions are all about the paint itself—not just the color, but the quality and composition of the product that will be protecting your home. Taking a moment to think through these points ensures the final result is not only beautiful but also durable and healthy for your family.

Always Test Your Paint Colors

That tiny paint chip you loved at the store can look dramatically different once it’s covering your entire house. The color will change with the light throughout the day and can be influenced by everything from your roof color to your landscaping. Before you commit to gallons of paint, buy a few sample pots and paint large swatches on different sides of your home. Live with them for a few days to see how they look in the bright morning sun and the soft evening light. This is also the time to remember that when it comes to paint, you get what you pay for. A premium paint might have a higher upfront cost, but it provides better coverage and durability, ensuring that perfect color you chose stays vibrant and resists fading for years to come.

Consider Low-VOC Paints for Health and Safety

Paint fumes contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are chemicals released into the air as the paint dries. These compounds can cause headaches, irritate your respiratory system, and impact your home’s indoor air quality. To create a healthier environment for your family and the painting crew, ask your contractor about using low-VOC or zero-VOC paints. While they might cost a little more, these paints are a smart choice. Even though the work is outside, fumes can easily drift into your home through open windows and vents. Opting for a low-VOC paint is a worthwhile investment in your family’s well-being and comfort during the project.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is professional painting so expensive if a can of paint isn’t? It’s a common question! The price of the paint itself is actually a small fraction of the total cost. The majority of your investment covers labor. This includes the meticulous prep work—scraping, sanding, and cleaning—that ensures a lasting finish, as well as the skill and time required to apply the paint smoothly and evenly. You’re paying for a professional’s expertise, safety equipment, and the guarantee of a job done right.

How often should I expect to repaint my house? Generally, a quality exterior paint job should last between five and ten years. This timeline can change based on a few factors, like the type of siding you have, the quality of the paint used, and our unique Puget Sound climate. Consistent exposure to rain and moisture means that using a durable, high-quality paint is one of the best ways to extend the time between paintings.

Is it okay to just paint over peeling paint or damaged siding? Painting over existing problems is never a good idea. Applying a new coat of paint on top of peeling areas or damaged siding essentially traps moisture and decay, which can lead to much bigger, more expensive issues down the road. For a paint job to last, the surface underneath needs to be sound, so any necessary repairs should always be handled first.

Can I really save money by doing some of the prep work myself? Yes, you absolutely can. Labor is the biggest expense, so any prep work you handle yourself can reduce the hours a professional crew needs to be on-site. Simple tasks like trimming shrubs away from the house, clearing your patio or deck, and doing a thorough cleaning of the siding can make a noticeable difference in your final quote. Just be sure to discuss which tasks you plan to do with your contractor beforehand.

When should I consider new siding instead of another paint job? If you find that your home’s siding has widespread issues like rot, warping, or cracking, a fresh coat of paint will only be a temporary cosmetic fix. In this situation, or if you’re simply looking for a more permanent, low-maintenance solution, investing in new siding is often the smarter long-term choice. Modern siding comes in a huge range of durable, pre-finished colors that eliminate the need for repainting altogether.