Painting the exterior of your home can be a daunting task, but it shouldn’t be one that you fear. It also shouldn’t be one that has you worried about your bank account; believe it or not, the cost of exterior house painting is quite easy to determine and account for if you’re aware of a few key factors. Here’s what you need to know.
1. Size Plays a Large Role
Generally, size is the most important factor when it comes to exterior painting; the larger the area that is being painted, the more paint and supplies will be needed to complete the work. Additionally, larger homes often take longer to complete, meaning there’s an increased cost of labor. On average, expect to pay between $1 to $4 per square foot, but don’t hold yourself to this estimate until you’ve consulted with your team of painters. The price of the project can also increase for taller homes with multiple stories, as additional paint and specialized tools will be needed including ladders and scaffolding.
2. Consider Your Home’s Construction Materials
The material on the exterior of the home can also greatly affect the cost. For instance, aluminum siding typically costs around $1.50 to $2.50 per square foot, while costly materials such as brick and stone can average up to $4.50 per square foot. Other materials, like concrete, vinyl, stucco, or engineered wood, fall anywhere from $1 to $4 per square foot. You also must consider additional exterior surfaces, such as the fascia, trim, shutters, and even window sashes – these can be made of different materials and come in different shapes and sizes.
3. Be Aware of Cleaning and Repair Costs
You cannot even begin painting until you’ve ensured your walls aren’t just clean, but undamaged and repaired. Repair any obvious cracks, dents, or other types of damage, and re-caulk as needed. Sand down and thoroughly wash any surfaces that are being painted, and don’t hesitate to replace siding that is beginning to rot or weaken. All of this labor (especially if you’re having to hire help) can add to your total project’s cost, but it’s all very necessary.
It’s also important to remember that inevitably, you’ll have to repaint your home years from now when your paint begins to fade and show signs of wear. Though you technically don’t have to pay for that this time around, ensuring that you’re paying for a quality job now will help your paint last longer, meaning you can save money in the future!
About Platinum Painting of Arlington
Our team here at Platinum Painting of Arlington has proudly served the painting needs of homeowners in Arlington and across the DFW metroplex for over 15 years. With a wide range of interior and exterior services to choose from, you can know with certainty that you’ll love your home’s new look. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to set up a FREE in-home estimate with our team, please reach out to our team online or by phone for additional information. Telephone: (817) 983-7280.