The honest answer is that it depends on your house, and any painter who gives you a firm price without seeing it is guessing. The good news is that the things that change the price are easy to understand. Here's what makes a paint job cost more or less, so you know what you're paying for when quotes come in.
1. The size and shape of the house
More wall area means more paint and more hours. But shape matters too. A simple box shaped house is quicker to paint than one with lots of corners, gables, bay windows and trims. Every edge has to be cut in by hand.
Height matters as well. A two storey house often needs scaffolding or extra ladder work and safety gear, which adds cost.
2. How much prep is needed
This is usually the biggest factor, and the one that's easiest to cut corners on. If your paint is sound, the house needs a wash, a light sand and spot priming. If it's flaking, cracked or chalky, the loose paint has to be scraped back, the bare timber primed and the gaps filled.
Prep is also where cheaper quotes can save time. Paint over flaking paint and it looks fine for a while, then peels again. When you compare quotes, check what prep is included.
3. Repairs
Rotten boards, cracked plaster, rusty nails and broken trims need fixing before painting. Some painters include small repairs, while bigger ones may need a builder. A good quote will tell you what's included.
4. The paint you choose
Premium paints cost more per tin, but they usually last longer and cover better. In a climate like Northland's, with strong UV, salt air and humidity, the extra years a better paint gives you are often worth more than the saving on a cheaper one.
5. Colours
One colour all over is the quickest. A body colour, a trim colour and a contrasting base takes more cutting in. A big colour change, especially dark to light, may need an extra coat.
6. Access and extras
Tight sections, steep sites, big gardens close to the walls and decks that need protecting all add time. So do extras like spouting, downpipes, doors, fences and roofs.
How to compare painting quotes
- Get the quote in writing and check it lists the prep, the number of coats and the paint brand.
- Ask what's not included, like repairs or spouting.
- Ask to see photos of past work.
- Check reviews on Google.
- Be wary of a price that's far lower than the others. Something is usually being left out.
Get a free quote in Northland
If you're in Whangārei, Ruakākā or Mangawhai, we'll come out, look at your house and give you a free written quote that spells out exactly what's included. See our exterior house painting page for how we work, or look at our recent jobs.
Questions
Is it cheaper to paint a house yourself?
It can be, if you have the time, the gear and a safe way to reach high areas. Prep is where most DIY jobs fall short, so the paint may not last as long.
Does a painting quote include paint?
Most full quotes include paint and materials, but always check. A good quote lists the paint brand and the number of coats.
Glen
Everlast Painting's lead painter, with 20 years' experience. Glen oversees every job.
