Exterior painting is profitable work for US painters. Here's how to quote it right.
Pricing Methods
Per Square Foot
- Basic (minimal prep): $1.50-2.50/sq ft
- Standard (moderate prep): $2.50-4.00/sq ft
- Premium (extensive prep): $4.00-6.00/sq ft
By House Size
- 1,500 sq ft home: $3,000-6,000
- 2,500 sq ft home: $5,000-10,000
- 3,500 sq ft home: $7,000-14,000
Prep Work Pricing
- Power washing: $0.15-0.30/sq ft
- Scraping: $0.50-1.50/sq ft
- Caulking: $1-3/linear foot
- Priming: $0.50-1.00/sq ft
- Wood repair: $50-100/hour
Paint Costs
- Budget paint: $25-35/gallon
- Mid-range: $40-60/gallon
- Premium: $60-80/gallon
- Coverage: 350-400 sq ft/gallon
Quote Structure
- Prep work: Itemized
- Paint (2 coats): Per sq ft or lump sum
- Trim and detail: Separate line item
- Materials: Included or separate
Regional Considerations
- Labor rates vary by region
- Climate affects prep requirements
- HOA color approval may be needed
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