26 Sep The Real Cost of Painting Your House Exterior – What to Expect
When it comes to maintaining your home, few projects offer as much impact as painting the exterior walls. The cost of painting your London home’s exterior isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s about protection, kerb appeal, and long-term value. A fresh coat of high-quality paint can shield your home from weather conditions, prevent more frequent repainting, and even boost property value. But how much does exterior painting cost, and what factors influence the overall cost? Let’s break it down so you know exactly what to expect.
Key Factors That Influence the Cost of Painting Your House Exterior
Size and Type of House
House size plays a significant role in exterior painting costs. A terraced house requires less paint and labour compared to a detached home. Multi-storey homes or properties with textured surfaces also need more paint and scaffolding, leading to higher costs.
Surface Preparation and Necessary Repairs
Before applying new paint, professional painters often need to carry out surface preparation. This includes filling cracks, removing peeling paint, and fixing rough surfaces. The better the preparation, the longer your new coat will last.
Labour and Material Costs
Labour costs vary depending on the complexity of the painting project and location. Material costs depend on the type of paint chosen. Premium paints and eco-friendly paints with fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs) tend to cost more but last longer.
Scaffolding and Safety Equipment
Scaffolding costs can significantly affect the overall cost of painting the exterior of your house, especially for multi-storey homes. Safety equipment and weather protection also add to expenses.
Average Exterior Painting Costs in the UK
Cost per Square Metre
On average, painting exterior walls in the UK can cost between £8 to £15 per square metre. The cost may vary depending on paint type, labour costs, and house condition.
Average Cost for a Terraced House
A terraced house typically costs between £1,000 and £2,000 for a full exterior paint job. Smaller surfaces, fewer coats, and lower scaffolding needs make it more budget-friendly.
Average Cost for Semi-Detached and Detached Homes
Semi-detached homes can range from £2,000 to £4,000, while detached homes can cost £3,000 to £7,000 depending on house size and paint type.
Multi-Storey Homes and Higher Costs
Multi-storey homes require scaffolding, more paint, and additional labour. The costs involved can easily exceed £10,000 for large properties.
The Role of Paint Type and Quality
Standard vs Premium Paints
Standard paints may save money upfront, but premium paints often provide better coverage, fewer coats, and a high-quality finish.
Masonry Paints and Eco-Friendly Options
High-quality masonry paint is a common choice for exterior walls, offering durability and weather resistance. Eco-friendly paints with lower VOCs are safer and sustainable, but they usually come at a higher cost.
Better Coverage and Fewer Coats
Premium paints may cost more but reduce the need for multiple coats, saving labour and material costs in the long run.
DIY Exterior Painting vs Hiring a Professional Painter
DIY exterior painting can save money, but it comes with risks. Without the right safety equipment, preparation, and materials, the paint job may require more frequent repainting.
Benefits of Professional Exterior Painting
Hiring a professional painter ensures a high-quality finish, proper surface preparation, and better coverage. Professionals also know how to paint textured and rough surfaces effectively.
Long-Term Value and Kerb Appeal
Professional exterior painting not only protects the exterior of your house but also enhances kerb appeal and adds long-term property value.
Step-by-Step Breakdown of a Professional Exterior Painting Project
Surface Preparation and Filling Cracks
Every successful exterior painting project begins with proper preparation. Filling cracks, sanding, and cleaning ensure the new coat adheres correctly.
Removing Old Paint and Applying a Fresh Coat
Peeling paint and old paint must be removed before applying new paint. A fresh coat gives better coverage and longevity.
Number of Coats Required
Most exterior walls need at least two coats of paint for a high-quality finish. Textured surfaces may require more paint for even coverage.
Final Finishes for a High-Quality Look
Professionals often apply protective coatings to prevent weather damage, ensuring the paint job lasts longer.
Additional Costs to Consider
Scaffolding Costs
For multi-storey homes, scaffolding costs can add hundreds or even thousands of pounds to the project.
Weather Delays and Safety Equipment
Weather conditions can delay painting projects, leading to additional costs for equipment hire.
More Frequent Repainting for Certain Surfaces
Some surfaces require more frequent repainting, especially if lower-quality paints are used.
How to Budget Effectively for Your Painting Project
Comparing Prices
Always compare prices from at least three professional painters. This helps identify a fair cost to paint your house exterior.
Choosing the Right Paint and Materials
Invest in high-quality paints and masonry paint for better durability. While premium paints cost more, they help you save money in the long term.
Planning for Future Maintenance
Budgeting for future maintenance ensures you avoid unexpected expenses when your home’s exterior needs a fresh coat.
FAQs: Exterior House Painting Costs
1. How much does it cost to paint the exterior of a house in the UK?
The cost of painting your house exterior varies depending on size, surface preparation, and paint type. On average, expect between £1,500 and £7,000.
2. Is it cheaper to DIY or hire a professional painter?
DIY may be cheaper upfront, but hiring a professional exterior painting service ensures a longer-lasting and high-quality finish.
3. What’s the best paint for exterior walls?
High-quality masonry paint and premium paints provide durability, better coverage, and fewer coats compared to standard options.
4. How often should you repaint your home’s exterior?
Most houses need repainting every 5 to 10 years, depending on paint quality, weather conditions, and surface preparation.
5. Do I need scaffolding for a terraced house?
For single-storey terraced houses, scaffolding may not be necessary. Multi-storey homes almost always require it, which increases overall cost.
6. How can I save money on an exterior painting project?
Compare prices, choose quality paints to reduce frequent repainting, and budget effectively for labour and material costs.
Conclusion
The cost of painting your house exterior varies depending on house size, surface preparation, labour costs, and paint type. While DIY exterior painting may seem tempting, hiring a professional ensures better coverage, long-lasting protection, and enhanced kerb appeal. If you’re planning an exterior painting project, budget effectively, compare prices, and always invest in high-quality paints for the best results.
At PEBS, we provide professional exterior painting services tailored to your needs. Whether it’s a terraced house, semi-detached, or a multi-storey home, our expert team ensures a high-quality finish that lasts. Contact PEBS today to get your home painted with confidence.