Painting the exterior of your home is an essential part of maintaining its curb appeal and protecting it from the elements. Whether you’re refreshing the look of your house or preparing it for sale, the cost of hiring professional painters can vary significantly.
In this article, we’ll explore what painters charge for exterior painting, the factors influencing these costs, and how to budget effectively for your project.
Factors That Influence Exterior Painting Costs
The cost of painting the exterior of a house depends on several variables, including:
1. Size of the House
The larger the surface area to be painted, the higher the cost. Painters usually charge per square metre, and the price may range from $20 to $60 per square metre in Australia. A small single-story home might cost between $3,000 and $5,000, while larger or multi-story homes can range from $7,000 to $15,000 or more.
2. Condition of the Surface
If the exterior walls are in poor condition, additional preparation work may be needed. This could include cleaning, sanding, filling cracks, or repairing damaged sections. Prep work can add several hundred to a few thousand dollars to the overall cost.
3. Type of Paint
The type and quality of paint significantly affect the cost. Premium paints designed for durability and weather resistance may cost more upfront but save money in the long run by lasting longer. Typically, paint costs range from $50 to $100 per litre.
4. Number of Coats Required
Most exterior painting jobs require at least two coats to ensure proper coverage and durability. Some colours or surfaces might need a third coat, increasing both paint and labour costs.
5. Height and Accessibility
If your home is multi-story or has hard-to-reach areas, painters may need scaffolding, ladders, or specialized equipment. This adds to labour and equipment costs.
6. Complexity of the Job
Intricate architectural details, trim, or decorative features can increase labour time and costs. Painters may charge extra for areas that require precision or additional care.
7. Location
Your location can also affect the price. For instance, painters Newcastle might charge different rates compared to painters in larger cities like Sydney or Melbourne due to variations in living costs and competition.
Typical Costs for Exterior House Painting in Australia
To give you a clearer picture, here are some approximate costs based on different house sizes:
- Small single-story home (90-120m²): $3,000 – $5,000
- Medium single-story home (150-180m²): $5,000 – $7,000
- Large single-story home or small two-story home (200-250m²): $7,000 – $10,000
- Large two-story home (250m²+): $10,000 – $15,000+
These costs typically include materials, labour, and basic preparation work. However, extra costs may apply for extensive prep work, premium paints, or additional features like garages, fences, and outbuildings.
Labour Costs for Professional Painters
Labour is a significant part of the overall cost. Most painters charge between $35 and $45 per hour in Australia, but rates can vary based on experience, demand, and location. For a detailed and reliable quote, consider reaching out to Newcastle painters or companies like Painting All Sorts, which have experience in handling various exterior painting projects.
DIY vs. Hiring Professionals
Some homeowners consider painting their house exterior themselves to save money. While this may reduce costs, it’s essential to consider the following:
- Time and Effort: Exterior painting is labour-intensive and can take several days or weeks, depending on the house size.
- Equipment: Professional painters have access to tools like scaffolding, spray guns, and high-quality brushes that can improve the finish and efficiency of the job.
- Safety: Working at heights or on ladders can be dangerous without proper training and equipment.
- Quality of Finish: Professionals deliver a high-quality, long-lasting finish that can be challenging for DIYers to replicate.
While DIY painting might save you a few thousand dollars, hiring professionals often provides better results and saves time.
How to Get Accurate Quotes
To get an accurate quote for your exterior painting project, follow these steps:
- Research and Compare: Look for reputable painters in your area. For those in Newcastle, search for “painters Newcastle” or “Newcastle painters” to find trusted professionals like “Painting All Sorts.”
- Request Multiple Quotes: Get at least three quotes to compare prices and services. Ensure each quote includes details about materials, labour, and any additional costs.
- Check References and Reviews: Read online reviews and ask for references to ensure the painter’s reliability and quality of work.
- Ask About Warranties: Reputable painters often provide warranties for their work, giving you peace of mind about the durability of the finish.
- Clarify Inclusions and Exclusions: Confirm what is included in the quote, such as paint type, number of coats, and preparation work. This helps avoid unexpected costs later.
Ways to Save on Exterior Painting Costs
If you’re working within a budget, here are some tips to save on costs without compromising quality:
- Choose Neutral Colours: Neutral colours often require fewer coats for coverage and are less expensive to touch up.
- Schedule Off-Peak: Painters are often less busy in cooler months, and you may get a better deal during these times.
- Prepare the Surface Yourself: If possible, do some of the prep work, like cleaning or sanding, to reduce labour costs.
- Bundle Projects: If you have additional painting needs (e.g., interior, fences), bundling these tasks with the exterior painting may lead to discounts.
Why Choose “Painting All Sorts”?
When searching for painters Newcastle or Newcastle painters, Painting All Sorts stands out for its professionalism and versatility. Specializing in a wide range of painting services, they deliver high-quality results tailored to your needs. Their expertise in exterior painting ensures that your home will look stunning and stay protected from the harsh Australian climate.
Conclusion
The cost of painting the exterior of your house varies depending on factors like size, surface condition, paint quality, and location. On average, you can expect to pay between $3,000 and $15,000 for a professional job in Australia.
Hiring experienced painters like Painting All Sorts ensures a durable and visually appealing finish while saving you time and effort. By understanding the cost factors and following the tips provided, you can budget effectively and achieve the best results for your home.
For Newcastle residents, reaching out to painters Newcastle or Newcastle painters ensures you’re working with local experts familiar with the unique requirements of the area. Contact Painting All Sorts today to get a detailed quote and bring your home’s exterior to life.
