Residential Painting
12 min

The Cost of Exterior Painting Services in Edmonton

Written by
Brad Kennedy

How much does it cost for exterior painting you ask? Ultimately, the best way to get an accurate quote for your project is to book and estimate with our experts. However, this post with help introduce you to the many factors that go into planning a painting budget.

Intro to exterior painting costs in Edmonton

Painting the exterior of a house is an investment that can significantly improve its appearance and curb appeal. However, it's essential to understand that the cost of such a project can vary widely depending on several factors. These factors include the number of coats required to achieve the desired finish, any pre-painting repairs needed to address issues such as peeling paint or damaged surfaces, and the overall square footage of the house.

In summary, while painting the exterior of a house can indeed be a significant investment, it's an investment that can pay off in terms of both aesthetic appeal and property value. By carefully considering all relevant factors and working with a reputable painting contractor, homeowners can ensure they get the best possible results for their budget.

Homestars estimated cost range: $3,471 to $18,000

Nerd Wallet estimated cost range: $2000 to $5000+

Factors that can change the pricing for exterior painting projects

When planning for an exterior painting project, it's essential to recognize that pricing can vary based on several factors. These include the number of coats required, any necessary repairs such as patching surfaces or replacing deteriorated wood, and the size of the house. While smaller projects may incur lower costs due to reduced material needs, larger projects with multiple coats can quickly accumulate expenses. Additionally, some painters may charge extra for additional tasks like surface repairs.

Moreover, thorough budgeting for an exterior painting endeavor requires consideration of both labor and material costs. Labor costs encompass the time and expertise of the painting crew, as well as any preparatory work such as pressure washing, sanding, or caulking. Material costs typically include primer and paint selection, with premium options offering enhanced coverage and durability despite a higher initial cost.

Furthermore, various factors like the accessibility of the painting area, the presence of intricate architectural details or trim work, and environmental considerations can all impact the final project cost. Therefore, meticulous planning and assessment of potential expenses are essential to ensure optimal results within a reasonable budget.

Factors Include:

  • Surface repairs
  • Number of coats of paint required
  • Height of the property
  • Access to painted areas that may require special equipment
  • Square footage of the surface being painted
  • Cost of labor (Varies depending on the contractor)
  • The type of paint being used
  • Types of surfaces being painted

Disclaimer: The information provided is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. It is advisable to consult with a qualified contractor before initiating any home improvement project.

Labor costs

For professional outdoor painting projects, a significant portion, typically ranging from 60% to 80%, of the total expense is allocated to labor. A comprehensive painting job involves various tasks such as gathering supplies, repairing and preparing surfaces, caulking gaps, sanding old paint, applying primer, applying two coats of paint, and cleaning the work area. While some painters may offer low hourly rates as cheap as $20, it's crucial to exercise caution before committing to such offers. In the residential painting field, where licensing requirements may be lacking in many areas, anyone can claim to be a painting contractor. Experienced professionals typically charge higher rates, ranging from $50 to $90 per hour per painter.

Types & quality of paint

There are numerous varieties of paints, and each has a distinct pricing range. A number of factors, including the quality of the components, the production method, and the intended use, affect paint prices. The following are some of the elements that can contribute to the cost differential between types of paint:

Product Quality: Greater coverage, durability, and color retention are provided by premium paint's improved pigments, resins, and additives. These components are frequently more costly, which raises the paint's cost.

Specialty paints: Specialty paints offer tailored solutions for specific applications, providing better performance and durability at a higher cost. For instance, waterproofing paints create a protective barrier against moisture, preventing water damage and mold growth on exterior surfaces such as basements or concrete walls. Fireproofing paints are designed to inhibit the spread of flames and resist high temperatures, making them ideal for use in areas prone to fire hazards or for adding an extra layer of protection to structural elements like beams or columns. Similarly, paints formulated for chemical resistance offer durability against harsh chemicals, acids, or solvents, making them suitable for industrial environments, laboratories, or areas exposed to chemical spills. While specialty paints may come at a higher cost, their ability to address specific needs and provide long-term protection often outweighs the initial investment.

Environmental concerns: On the other hand, environmental concerns have led to the development of eco-friendly paints that prioritize sustainability and minimize environmental impact. These paints contain fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and harmful chemicals, making them safer for both painters and homeowners while reducing air pollution and indoor air quality concerns. Additionally, eco-friendly paints often utilize renewable or recycled materials in their formulations, contributing to resource conservation and reducing carbon footprint. While eco-friendly paints may have a slightly higher price point compared to conventional paints, the benefits of creating a healthier living environment and supporting sustainable practices make them a worthwhile investment for conscientious homeowners and environmentally conscious businesses.

Brand reputation: Established brands with a reputation for quality may charge more for their paints due to their brand recognition and loyalty. At Kennedy Coatings we typically work with Cloverdale, Sherwin-Williams, or Benjamin Moore.

Type of paint finish

When evaluating paint finishes, it's important to consider the factors influencing their cost and performance. One significant aspect is the level of sheen or gloss, which determines the paint's reflective quality. Glossier finishes typically require additional additives and resins to achieve their shine, resulting in a higher price point compared to matte or eggshell finishes.

Durability is another critical consideration. Finishes with superior durability, such as semi-gloss and high-gloss options, often come at a higher cost due to the higher quality of ingredients used in their formulation. These paints are engineered to withstand wear and tear better, making them suitable for high-traffic areas or environments prone to moisture.

Coverage also plays a significant role in determining the cost of a paint finish. Finishes offering better coverage tend to be more expensive because they contain a higher concentration of pigments and additives, resulting in greater opacity with fewer coats. This efficiency can ultimately save time and material costs during application.

Additionally, specialty finishes like metallic, glitter, and pearl finishes may command a premium price due to their unique formulations and distinctive aesthetic effects. While these finishes can enhance the visual appeal of a space, they may require additional skill and expertise to apply correctly, contributing to their higher cost.

Current state & size of house

The size of your home stands as one of the primary components of the painting project's cost. Larger homes, especially those with multiple stories, necessitate more materials and time for completion. Additionally, if your home features hard-to-reach areas requiring specialized equipment like a lift, this will further impact the overall project expense.

Furthermore, it's essential to recognize that several factors contribute to the actual cost of painting the exterior of a house. These include the type of paint chosen, the condition of the surfaces being painted, the geographical location of the house, and the intricacy of the job. Moreover, if the project requires multiple coats of paint, it will naturally incur higher costs. To ensure fairness in pricing, it's advisable to obtain multiple quotes from professional painters.

Another consideration affecting pricing is the removal of lead-based paint. Homes constructed before 1978 may contain lead-based paint, necessitating precautions and specialized treatment. In such cases, it's crucial to engage EPA or state-approved Lead-Safe certified renovation firms, as lead paint removal adds to the overall expense of painting your home. 

Windows & Trim

Painting trim is often a separate and meticulous task from painting the main sections of the house. This specialized process requires careful hand-application techniques to ensure precision and attention to detail. If your project includes painting trim, especially if there's a considerable amount, it may lead to higher project costs due to the extra labor and materials involved.

Likewise, the number of windows in your home can affect overall painting expenses. Windows require thorough masking, preparation, and individualized treatment by the painting crew, similar to the care given to trim. As a result, the quantity of windows influences the total cost of the painting project.

Looking for the answer to your next project?

If you are interested in an accurate quote to have your house painted, contact us to get a free estimate. We are interested in the intricate details of your project and take all factors into consideration when generating the quote for the cost of your home's custom exterior paint service. 

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