Thinking about giving your home a fresh coat of paint? Whether you’re aiming to boost curb appeal, protect your siding, or simply want a change, repainting the outside of your house is a smart investment. One of the most common questions homeowners ask is, “How much does it cost to paint the exterior of a house?” At Painting Renovation SRQ, we understand that every home and budget is unique, so this guide will help you explore the key cost factors, timeframes, and expert tips for how to paint outside of the house efficiently.
If you’re in Sarasota, Florida, and searching for answers on how long does it take to paint a house or wondering about pricing details, you’ve come to the right place. Our local expertise ensures you get a precise estimate and quality workmanship tailored to Florida’s climate challenges.
Average Cost to Paint the Exterior of a House in Sarasota, FL
If you’re wondering how much to paint the exterior of a house in Sarasota, expect to spend between $2,800 and $8,500 on average. This includes professional labor, prep work, materials, and cleanup. Florida’s unique climate—hot sun, high humidity, and salt air near the coast—also influences both the cost and the materials used.
How Much to Paint the Exterior of a House?
| Home Size | Estimated Cost Range |
| 1,000 sq ft | $1,800 – $3,200 |
| 1,500 sq ft | $2,800 – $4,800 |
| 2,500 sq ft | $4,000 – $7,500 |
| 3,000+ sq ft | $6,000 – $10,000+ |
These estimates typically include:
- Pressure washing and surface prep
- Caulking and minor repairs
- One or two coats of exterior paint
- Weather-resistant paints suited to Florida’s climate
Cost by Home Type
Let’s break down the average cost to paint the exterior of a house even further by home type. Size, architecture, and accessibility all influence the final price. Here’s what you can expect:
Small Home (Under 1,000 sq ft)
- Estimated Cost: $1,500 – $3,000
Smaller homes tend to be the most budget-friendly to paint, especially if the exterior is in good shape. The process is usually quicker and requires less labour and paint.
Ideal for:
- Bungalows, small ranch homes, and cottages.
- Homeowners who want a quick curb appeal boost on a budget.
Tips:
- Choose a durable paint with built-in primer to reduce the number of coats.
- Opt for neutral colors if planning to sell the home soon.
Medium Home (1,500 – 2,500 sq ft)
- Estimated Cost: $3,000 – $6,500
Medium-sized homes are the most common and come with moderate complexity in prep, materials, and labour. Two-story elements or attached garages can push the price up.
Home types that fit this category:
- Colonials, split-levels, and newer construction suburban homes.
- Homes with a mix of stucco, brick, or siding finishes.
Cost-saving tips:
- Repair any damaged siding or woodwork before painting to avoid extra fees.
- Ask painters if touch-ups are included in their warranty.
Large Home (3,000+ sq ft)
- Estimated Cost: $5,000 – $10,000+
Large homes are more expensive due to size and architectural complexity. Intricate trim, multiple stories, and hard-to-reach areas require more materials, manpower, and time.
Common examples:
- Victorian, Tudor, or multi-level custom homes.
- Properties with wood siding, ornate trim, or wraparound porches.
Smart strategies for managing costs:
- Schedule in dry, mild months to avoid weather-related delays.
- Bundle services—such as exterior cleaning and minor repairs—to save on separate call-out fees.
- Get a detailed estimate that includes paint brand, prep work, and clean-up.
Factors That Affect Exterior Painting Costs
1. Home Type & Design
- Ranch-style or single-story homes are usually cheaper to paint due to easier access.
- Two- and three-story homes require ladders, scaffolding, and extra time.
- Victorian or custom homes with elaborate trim or intricate details may raise labor costs significantly.
2. Surface Material
- Wood siding: Needs more prep, often costs more.
- Stucco: Requires more paint and may involve patching.
- Brick: Typically more expensive to paint due to required primer and porous texture.
- Vinyl/Aluminum: Easier and faster to paint but may require special paint.
3. Paint Type & Finish
Higher-quality paints cost more upfront but last longer. A gallon of exterior paint can range from $30 to $100.
- Flat/matte finishes: Great for hiding flaws but not very durable.
- Satin/eggshell: Common choice; balance between durability and appearance.
- Semi-gloss or gloss: Best for trim and high-touch areas but will highlight imperfections.
4. Prep Work
Prepping includes cleaning, scraping old paint, repairing damage, and applying primer. If your home hasn’t been painted in over 7-10 years, expect prep work to add $500 to $2,000.
5. Labor Costs
Professional painters usually charge between $1.50 to $4.00 per square foot. Hourly rates can range from $20 to $60/hour, depending on experience and location.
6. Location
Costs vary by region. Expect higher prices in urban areas and regions with a higher cost of living.
How Long Does It Take to Paint a House?
Searching for how long it takes to paint the outside of your home? For most average-sized homes in Sarasota, Florida, the full exterior painting process typically takes 3 to 7 days—but this can vary depending on your home’s size, the complexity of the job, and the weather conditions.
Below is a typical timeline for a professional exterior paint job:
Average Exterior Painting Timeline
| Stage | Timeframe | What’s Involved |
| Inspection & Prep | 1–2 days | Pressure washing, scraping loose paint, filling cracks, sanding, and masking trim/windows. |
| Priming | 1 day | Primer applied to bare wood, stucco patches, or repaired areas to ensure proper paint adhesion. |
| Painting | 1–3 days | Application of one to two coats of high-quality exterior paint using brushes, rollers, or sprayers. |
| Touch-Ups & Cleanup | 1 day | Final walkthrough, fixing imperfections, removing masking, and cleaning up the job site. |
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro: Which Is Right for You?
After learning about how much to paint the exterior of a house, we’ll now explore whether to tackle the job yourself or hire a professional for the best results.
Going DIY
Pros:
- Save money on labor costs
- Full control over the painting process and schedule
- Personal satisfaction from doing it yourself
Cons:
- Can take 2 to 3 weeks or longer, especially without experience
- Equipment rental and supply costs can add up
- Quality may not match a professional finish
- Prep and cleanup can be exhausting and time-consuming
Hiring a Pro (like Painting Renovation SRQ)
Pros:
- Faster, usually completed within a week
- Cleaner, more efficient work with expert techniques
- High-quality, durable results that enhance curb appeal
- Professionals carry insurance and often provide warranties
- Saves you time, effort, and stress
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost compared to DIY
For large homes, tricky surfaces, or if you want a guaranteed flawless finish, hiring Painting Renovation SRQ is often the smartest choice. You’ll enjoy peace of mind and a beautiful, long-lasting paint job without the headaches.
How to Paint Outside of House: Step-by-Step
If you’re thinking about taking the DIY route, here’s a simplified guide on how to paint the outside of a house:
- Wash the Surface: Use a power washer to remove dirt, mildew, and old paint chips.
- Scrape & Sand: Smooth out peeling or bubbling areas.
- Repair Damages: Patch holes, cracks, or replace damaged siding.
- Prime the Surface: Especially important for bare wood or patched spots.
- Apply Paint: Use a brush for edges, a roller for large areas, and sprayers if available.
- Apply a Second Coat: After the first coat dries.
- Touch-Up & Cleanup: Remove masking tape, paint trim, clean tools.
Final Thoughts
So, how much does it cost to paint the exterior of a house? The answer depends on many factors like your home’s size, design, surface material, how long does it take to paint a house, and whether you hire a pro or DIY. A small house might cost under $2,000, while a large custom home could easily top $10,000. The key is to plan ahead, budget realistically, and use quality materials.
With the right prep and professional help, a fresh coat of paint can do wonders for your home’s curb appeal and protection.
Ready to refresh your home? Contact Painting Renovation SRQ today for expert help with how much to paint the exterior of a house and get a flawless, lasting finish!
