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How Much Does It Cost To Paint The Exterior Of A House?
Painting the exterior of your house is an important home improvement task that not only transforms its appearance but also protects the structure from the elements. In the UK, where weather conditions can be particularly harsh, it’s critical to ensure that your home is properly maintained and weatherproofed.
Whether you're considering a DIY project or hiring a professional painter, it’s essential to understand the costs involved and how various factors can influence these costs. This comprehensive guide will take you through every detail, from understanding average costs, the role of labour and materials, to helpful cost-saving strategies.
What is the Average Cost to Paint the Exterior of a House in the UK?
In the UK, the cost to paint the exterior of a house can vary significantly depending on several factors, but it’s possible to provide some average figures to guide your budgeting.
For a small terraced house (1–2 bedrooms), the typical cost ranges between £1000 and £2,500. This is because smaller properties require less paint and labour, and access is usually simpler, particularly for single-storey homes.
For a semi-detached house (2–3 bedrooms), you’re looking at costs between £2,500 and £5,000. A semi-detached house has more external walls to cover than a terraced property, and this usually means more materials and more time spent on the job.
For a detached house (4+ bedrooms), prices tend to range between £5,000 and £15,000. Detached homes not only have more external surface area to cover, but they also present greater accessibility challenges, especially if the house has multiple storeys or intricate architectural details.
It’s important to note that these figures typically reflect the cost of hiring a professional and include labour, materials, and some degree of surface preparation. The exact amount you’ll pay will vary based on additional factors such as the condition of your home, the complexity of the job, and your location in the UK.
To get a more precise idea of costs in your area, call us on 020 8906 6552 and request a free, no obligation quote.
Factors Behind Cost Variation:
Location: Labour rates differ considerably across the UK. Prices in London and the South East tend to be
higher than in the Midlands, the North, or Scotland.
Complexity: Large, intricate homes or those with difficult-to-access areas, such as houses on steep terrain, will incur higher labour and potentially equipment hire costs.
Surface Material: Homes with rough surfaces like pebble dash or textured render can cost more to paint due to the increased amount of paint and time required.
When planning your exterior painting project, be sure to budget for unexpected expenses, as well. For example, damaged siding or render may need to be repaired before painting, and this can add to the overall cost.
What Factors Affect the Cost of Exterior House Painting?
Several variables come into play when determining the cost of painting the exterior of a house. Here’s a closer look at the most important factors:
Size of the Property :
The size of your house is the most obvious factor that affects the cost. Larger homes require more paint and more labour, which means higher costs. To estimate costs more accurately, painters often calculate the project by the square metre. In the UK, the cost per square metre can range from
£30 to £100, depending on the factors discussed below.
Therefore, the bigger the surface area, the more expensive the job will be. You’ll need to measure the height and width of each exterior wall to calculate the total square footage, which can help in getting accurate quotes.
Type of Exterior Surface Material :
Different materials require different kinds of paint, preparation, and techniques. Here’s a breakdown of common materials and their associated costs:
Brick: While brick is durable, it requires a breathable masonry paint to prevent trapping moisture. The porous nature of brick can mean that it absorbs more paint than smoother surfaces.
Render: Smooth render is fairly straightforward to paint, but textured or pebble-dash render takes longer due to the uneven surface, which can increase labour costs.
Wooden Siding: Wooden cladding often requires more preparation, such as sanding or priming, and might also need a specialist exterior wood paint that’s more expensive.
Pebbledash: Pebbledash is an extremely difficult surface to cover with traditional masonry paint unless you use some type of spray-on wall coating solution.
Condition of the Existing Paint and Walls :
If your home hasn’t been painted in a while and the paint is peeling or cracking, the painters will need to spend more time on preparation. Prepping a house in poor condition typically involves:
Scraping and sanding: Removing old paint that’s flaking or peeling.
Priming: Applying a primer to areas where the old paint has been stripped down to the bare material (such as wood or brick).
Repairs: If there’s any damage to your siding, render, or woodwork, it needs to be fixed before painting can start. This can range from filling cracks in render to replacing rotted wood on window frames or fascias.
Accessibility and Complexity :
Houses with complicated architecture, lots of eaves, dormer windows, or other features that make access difficult will cost more to paint. Additionally, if your house is more than one storey, scaffolding might be required, and this can add £400 to £2,000 to the overall cost. You can rent scaffolding from companies like National Scaffolding if you’re undertaking the project yourself.
Weather Conditions :
Painting an exterior is highly weather-dependent, and in the UK, this is a major factor. Cold, wet, or windy weather can delay the project, potentially increasing labour costs if the job takes longer than anticipated.
For more information on factors affecting painting costs in the UK, see the helpful breakdown on
How Much Does Labour Cost Compared to Materials?
Labour is the single largest expense when hiring professionals to paint the exterior of a house. On average, labour makes up 70% of the total cost, while materials typically account for the remaining
30%. Let’s explore this in more detail.
Labour Costs :
The cost of labour varies across the UK. In most regions, professional painters charge between
£150 and £200 per day. However, this can be higher in London and the South East, where labour shortages and higher living costs drive up prices. The overall time required to complete the job will depend on:
- The size of the house.
- The number of storeys.
- The condition of the exterior.
- The type of paint and the number of coats required.
- Typically, a medium-sized semi-detached house takes 5–7 days to paint.
This includes preparation, priming, and two coats of paint. A more complex or larger house could take upwards of 10 days.
Material Costs :
Materials, including paint, primer, brushes, rollers, ladders, and scaffolding, make up about
30% of the total project cost.
When it comes to paint, prices vary based on the brand and type of paint you choose. Here’s a rough estimate:
High-quality masonry paint (like Dulux Weathershield or Sandtex) costs between £20 and £60 per 5-litre tin.
Primer costs around £15 to £30 per 5-litre tin, depending on the material (wood or masonry).You’ll also need brushes, rollers, and potentially a spray gun (for large surfaces), which could cost an additional £50 to £200, depending on the quality of the tools.
A medium-sized semi-detached house usually requires around 20–30 litres of paint. This means you’ll likely spend between £200 and £400 on paint alone.
When purchasing materials, it’s wise to invest in high-quality products, as this can affect both the appearance and longevity of the paint job. For tips on selecting the best paint for your home, visit
Scaffolding Costs :
For homes with multiple storeys, scaffolding is often necessary to ensure safety and efficiency. Scaffolding for a typical semi-detached house can cost anywhere from £400 to £2,000, depending on your location and the complexity of the job and the duration for which it’s needed. If scaffolding is required for repairs before painting, this cost could rise.
When estimating the total cost of painting the exterior of your house, it’s essential to consider both labour and material costs, as both can vary widely depending on the specific circumstances of your home.
Does the Type of Paint Affect the Cost?
The type of paint you choose will have a significant impact on both the cost and longevity of your exterior paint job. While it’s tempting to opt for cheaper paint to save money upfront, investing in high-quality paint can save you money in the long run by lasting longer and offering better protection for your home.
Acrylic Paint :
Acrylic paint is one of the most popular choices for exterior painting in the UK. It’s water-based, durable, and highly resistant to cracking and peeling, which makes it ideal for UK weather conditions. It also allows surfaces to breathe, reducing the risk of moisture being trapped in the walls. Expect to pay around £20 to £50 per 5-litre tin for good-quality acrylic masonry paint. This type of paint is often favoured for:
- Brick and render surfaces
- Timber cladding
Oil-Based Paint :
Oil-based paints provide a smooth and durable finish but are generally more expensive than acrylics, costing between £25 and £50 per 5-litre tin. They are often used on metal and wooden surfaces, such as exterior doors, windows, and trim.
However, oil-based paints take longer to dry and can emit strong fumes, which makes them less convenient for DIY jobs. Due to their long-lasting finish, they’re still a popular choice for detailed trim work or high-traffic areas of the house.
Eco-Friendly Paint :
If environmental impact is a concern for you, eco-friendly paints are a great option. These paints have lower levels of VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and are made from sustainable or non-toxic materials. However, they can be more expensive, ranging from £40 to £70 per 5-litre tin.
Despite the higher initial cost, eco paints are becoming increasingly popular due to their health benefits and lower environmental impact.
Specialised Paints for Specific Surfaces :
Different surfaces may require specific types of paint to achieve the best results:
Timber: Wood requires specialised exterior wood paint to protect against rot and weather damage.
Pebble Dash: Textured surfaces like pebble dash may require a thicker wall coating, more often than not, applied with a spray gun for better coverage.
Metal: For metal surfaces, such as gates or railings, you’ll need a rust-inhibiting primer and metal paint that can withstand the UK’s wet climate.
In addition to the type of paint, you’ll also need to consider the number of coats required. Many surfaces, particularly those that have not been painted in years, will need two coats of paint, which increases both the material and labour costs. Opting for cheaper paint may require more coats, negating any potential savings.
Investing in high-quality, weatherproof and protective exterior wall coatings can extend the lifespan of your exterior painting job by many years, saving you the cost and effort of repainting sooner than necessary. For product comparisons and reviews, Which? provides an excellent resource for finding the best exterior paint.
How Often Should You Paint the Exterior of Your House in the UK?
The lifespan of exterior paint depends on several factors, including the type of paint used, the quality of the application, and the weather conditions in your area. On average, exterior paint lasts between
5 and 10 years. However, certain materials and surfaces may need to be repainted more or less frequently.
Brick :
Paint on brick surfaces tends to last the longest, with a lifespan of around 7 to 10 years. This is due to the durability of the material and the fact that brick is less prone to water damage than wood or render. However, brick homes in coastal or high-humidity areas may need to be painted more frequently due to salt exposure or excessive moisture.
Wood :
Wooden surfaces generally require more frequent painting—every 3 to 7 years —depending on the climate and the type of paint used. Wood is highly susceptible to rot and water damage, so it’s essential to maintain a good protective layer of paint or wood stain. Regular inspections of wooden surfaces are crucial to identify peeling, cracking, or areas where the paint may have worn thin.
Render and Pebble Dash :
Smooth render can last 5 to 7 years, while rough-textured surfaces like pebble dash typically need to be repainted every 5 to 6 years . Pebble dash can trap moisture, which, over time, can lead to moss and mildew growth. This type of surface may also show signs of wear and tear sooner than smooth render, especially in areas exposed to heavy rain or wind.
Weather Conditions and Paint Longevity :
The UK’s unpredictable weather plays a significant role in the longevity of your paint job. Harsh winters, heavy rainfall, and strong winds can cause paint to deteriorate faster. Coastal homes are particularly vulnerable to salt corrosion and wind damage, which may require more frequent repainting.
Additionally, homes in areas with high levels of air pollution, such as near busy roads, may experience faster paint fading or discolouration due to soot and grime buildup.
To extend the life of your exterior paint job, it’s essential to perform regular maintenance. Cleaning the exterior walls with a pressure washer once a year can help remove dirt, mildew, and moss, which can degrade paint over time. Minor touch-ups or spot repairs can also help prolong the time between full repaints. For maintenance tips and best practices, Homes and Garden offers useful advice on keeping your home’s exterior in top shape.
Do You Need to Do Any Prep Work, and How Does It Impact Cost?
One of the most important aspects of exterior painting is the preparation work, which can significantly affect both the final outcome and the overall cost of the project. In fact, professionals often say that
80% of a good paint job is in the preparation. Proper prep work ensures that the new paint adheres correctly and lasts as long as possible, while insufficient prep can lead to premature peeling, cracking, or flaking.
Surface Cleaning :
Before any painting begins, the exterior of your home needs to be thoroughly cleaned. This can be done with a power washer or, for more delicate surfaces, by scrubbing with a brush and a mild detergent solution. Cleaning removes dirt, mildew, and chalking paint residue that could interfere with the adhesion of the new paint. For properties in urban areas with high pollution levels, this step is especially important.
Power washing a house in the UK can cost between £150 and £500 if you hire professionals. However, you can also rent a power washer from HSS Hire for around £40 per day if you’re planning to do it yourself.
Scraping and Sanding :
If the existing paint is peeling, flaking, or cracked, it will need to be scraped off before new paint can be applied. Scraping is a time-consuming process, especially for large homes or homes with intricate woodwork or trim. After scraping, the surface often needs to be sanded to create a smooth, even base for the new paint. This stage is critical because painting over loose or peeling paint will result in a poor finish that won’t last.
Priming :
In many cases, priming is necessary to ensure proper paint adhesion. Primer is especially important on bare wood, new render, or metal surfaces, as it helps the paint bond to the material and provides an additional layer of protection against moisture. In addition, if you’re changing from a dark to a light colour, primer will prevent the old colour from showing through.
The cost of primer varies depending on the surface type, but you can expect to pay around
£20 to £50 per 5-litre tin . Most exterior surfaces will need one coat of primer, though wood may require more if it’s particularly weathered or porous.
Repairing Cracks and Damaged Surfaces :
If your home’s exterior has cracks in the render, gaps in the brick mortar, or rotting wood, these issues need to be addressed before painting. Neglecting to repair damaged areas can lead to moisture ingress, which can cause further damage to your home’s structure. For small cracks, you can use a filler, which typically costs around £5 to £15 per tub, depending on the material. Larger repairs may require professional assistance and could add a few hundred pounds to your overall budget.
Masking and Protecting Areas :
To achieve a clean, professional finish, painters will mask off areas that shouldn’t be painted, such as windows, doors, and trim. This requires precision and adds to the labour time. Professionals use painter’s tape and protective coverings to ensure crisp lines and prevent accidental splatters on surfaces like brick, glass, or metal.
Proper preparation can add several days to the painting process and, depending on the condition of your home’s exterior, could add £300 to £1,000 to the overall cost. However, skipping this step can result in a subpar finish that doesn’t last, meaning you may have to repaint sooner than expected. For a step-by-step guide on preparing the exterior of your home for painting, check out this DIY Guide to Exterior Prep Work.
Should I Hire a Professional or Paint the Exterior Myself?
Deciding whether to hire a professional painter or take on the project yourself is a major consideration. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, and your choice will depend on factors such as your budget, the size of your home, your experience, and the time you have available.
Hiring a Professional :
Hiring a professional painter comes with several clear advantages, particularly for those with larger homes or little experience in exterior painting. Here are the key benefits:
Expertise and Quality: A professional painter will have the skills and knowledge to complete the job to a high standard, ensuring that the paint adheres properly, is applied evenly, and lasts for the maximum amount of time. Professionals are also familiar with different paint types and know how to deal with specific surfaces and conditions.
Safety: If your home is more than one storey tall, painting it can be dangerous, especially if you don’t have the right equipment or experience working at height. Professionals come equipped with the necessary tools, including scaffolding, ladders, and safety gear, to ensure that the job is done safely.
Efficiency: Professional painters work faster than most DIYers, meaning the job will be completed more quickly, with less disruption to your home life.
However, hiring a professional does come at a higher cost. Labour typically makes up 70% of the total cost, meaning that if you choose to hire a painter, you can expect to pay between £1,000 and £4,000
, depending on the size of your home.
DIY Exterior Painting :
If you’re on a tighter budget and have the time and skills required, painting the exterior of your home yourself can save you a significant amount of money. The main benefits of DIY painting are:
Cost Savings: By taking on the labour yourself, you can save hundreds, if not thousands, of pounds. The primary costs will be for materials (paint, brushes, ladders, or scaffolding), which will likely be a fraction of what you’d pay for a professional.
Satisfaction: Completing a DIY project like painting the exterior of your home can be incredibly satisfying. If you enjoy DIY and have the skills, it’s a rewarding way to improve your home.
However, there are also drawbacks to DIY painting:
Time: Painting an entire house is a time-consuming project. Depending on the size of your home and the amount of preparation needed, it could take you several weekends to complete the job.
Skill Level: Exterior painting requires more skill than you might think. Achieving a smooth, even finish takes practice, and mistakes like paint drips, uneven coverage, or missed areas can detract from the final result. There’s also the risk of the paint not adhering properly if the surface isn’t prepared correctly, which can lead to premature peeling or cracking.
Safety: As mentioned, working at height can be dangerous. If your home is two or more storeys tall, you’ll need ladders or scaffolding, which increases the risk of falls and injuries. If you’re not comfortable working at height or don’t have the necessary equipment, it’s best to leave the job to a professional.
For a detailed guide on how to safely paint the exterior of your home, check out DIY Doctor’s Exterior Painting Guide.
How Long Does It Take to Paint the Exterior of a House?
The time it takes to paint the exterior of a house can vary depending on factors such as the size of the home, the complexity of the job, and the weather conditions. In general, you can expect a professional team to take 3 to 10 days to complete an exterior painting project.
Small Terraced or Bungalow :
For a smaller property, such as a one- or two-bedroom terraced house or bungalow, the job could take as little as 3 to 5 days. This includes the time for preparation, painting, and drying between coats.
Medium-Sized Semi-Detached :
A medium-sized semi-detached house typically takes around 5 to 7 days to paint. This timeline includes any necessary prep work, such as cleaning, scraping, priming, and applying two coats of paint.
Large Detached Homes :
For larger detached homes, or houses with intricate features (like dormer windows or detailed trim), you’re looking at around 7 to 10 days. This time could be extended further if the weather doesn’t cooperate or if additional repairs or preparation work is needed.
Weather Delays :
In the UK, weather plays a significant role in the timeline of an exterior painting project. Rain, high humidity, and cold temperatures can all delay the painting process. Paint needs time to dry between coats, and if the weather is too damp or too cold, it could take longer than expected for the paint to cure. Professional painters usually monitor weather forecasts closely and may need to adjust their schedules accordingly.
If you’re undertaking a DIY project, it’s important to allow extra time, as you may not be able to work as quickly as a professional team. You’ll also need to factor in the time it takes to prepare the surface, gather materials, and clean up after the job is done.
What Are the Best Ways to Save Money on Painting the Exterior of My House?
Painting your home’s exterior can be expensive, but there are several ways you can reduce the overall cost without sacrificing quality. Here are some practical tips for saving money on your painting project:
1. Shop Around for Quotes :
The first and most effective way to save money is by getting multiple quotes from different painters. Prices can vary significantly from one painter to another, so comparing quotes allows you to find the best deal. Be sure to get at least three quotes, and don’t automatically go for the cheapest option—make sure the painter has a good reputation and uses high-quality materials.
You can use services like Checkatrade and MyBuilder to compare quotes and read reviews from other homeowners.
2. Time Your Project Wisely :
Many people assume that summer is the best time for exterior painting, and while it’s true that the warmer months offer more consistent weather, they are also the busiest times for painters. By scheduling your painting project for the off-season (spring or autumn), you may be able to get a better deal, as painters are less in demand during these times.
However, keep an eye on the weather forecast to ensure you don’t get caught out by unseasonably wet or cold conditions which make it difficult to paint or apply any type of wall coating.
3. Do Some of the Prep Work Yourself :
Preparation is a significant part of the cost of exterior painting, and while it’s a time-consuming process, it’s something you may be able to do yourself to save money. For example, you could clean the exterior walls, scrape off old paint, or sand surfaces in preparation for painting.
This will reduce the amount of time the painter needs to spend on the job, lowering your overall labour costs. Just be sure that you’re confident in your ability to do the prep work properly—if not, it’s best to leave it to the professionals, as poor preparation can result in a substandard finish.
4. Buy Paint and Materials in Bulk :
If you know exactly how much paint you’ll need, consider buying it in bulk to save money. Many suppliers offer discounts on larger quantities, and you may be able to take advantage of sales or special offers at DIY stores. Be sure to calculate the correct amount of paint needed to avoid having to buy more later, which could mean paying higher prices. You can use tools like Dulux’s Paint Calculator to estimate how much paint you’ll need for your home’s exterior.
5. Use High-Quality Paint :
While it might seem counterintuitive, using high-quality paint can actually save you money in the long run. Cheaper paints often require more coats to achieve the desired finish, and they tend to wear out faster, meaning you’ll have to repaint sooner. By investing in high-quality, weatherproof paint, you can extend the life of your paint job, potentially saving hundreds of pounds over time.
6. Look for DIY Discounts :
If you’re taking on the painting project yourself, look out for DIY discounts and special offers from paint suppliers and home improvement stores. Retailers often have sales, particularly at the end of the summer season, when painting supplies are in less demand. Some stores also offer loyalty programs or discounts for bulk purchases, which can help you save money on materials.
By planning carefully and taking the time to explore cost-saving opportunities, you can significantly reduce the overall cost of painting your home’s exterior.
To Conclude
Painting the exterior of your house is an investment that can greatly enhance its appearance and protect it from the harsh UK climate. By understanding the various factors that influence costs—such as the size of your home, the type of paint of wall coating you uses and the amount of preparation needed—you can plan your project effectively and avoid unexpected expenses.
Whether you decide to hire a professional or tackle the project yourself, taking the time to prepare properly, select high-quality materials, and shop around for the best deals will ensure that your home looks its best for years to come. Remember, a well-executed paint job can last for up to 10 years, so it’s worth investing in quality and careful planning.
If you would like our expert company help you transform your property's exterior with one of our 15 year guaranteed wall coatings, then please call us on 020 8906 6552 or click the link below to request a free no obligation quote. We cover the whole of England and Wales and we'll beat any like for like quote.
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