Find top rated exterior painters in your area

Exterior paint costs around $20 to $80 per gallon, while interior paint costs around $20 to $30 per gallon. Outside paints tend to be pricier because they need to withstand the elements, such as abrasion, moisture, and color corrosion from the sun. In addition, painting the outside of a home is more costly at around $3,100, while painting a home interior costs around $2,000.

Use our paint calculator to determine the number of gallons of paint needed for your project. The average gallon of exterior paint covers 350 square feet in a single coat. So, a 1,500-square-foot home with a paintable area of 1,100 square feet requires seven gallons of paint for a two-coat application.

When determining how much extra paint to purchase and whether to apply primer, clear planning is essential. Rounding up your paint requirements ensures complete coverage and prevents gaps during the application process. Extra paint acts as a safeguard against miscalculations, while proper primer application—decided by the paint type and exterior condition—secures adhesion and long-lasting protection.

When determining how often to repaint your home’s exterior, careful evaluation of both the current paint condition and building materials is crucial. Exterior paint is engineered to last five to 10 years. Aluminum surfaces require repainting every five years, wood requires a new coat every three to seven years, and painted brick needs refreshing every 15 to 20 years. Visible chipping or cracking signals the need for prompt repainting to sustain protection and curb appeal.

When deciding whether to roll or spray exterior house paint, the method chosen directly influences the overall finish and work efficiency. Rolling delivers precision and control for tight, detailed areas, whereas spraying achieves a smooth, even coat on large surfaces with high efficiency. The equipment used and labor intensity are key considerations; homeowners must choose the technique that best suits their project scale and quality requirements.

When evaluating the duration of an exterior painting project, a professional team completes an average-sized house within three to four days. Larger or more complex projects—such as three-story homes or residences with extensive architectural details—require five to six days due to increased surface area and additional setup. A contractor provides an exact timeline after reviewing all project specifics.