Painting a house is a great way to give a house a new and refreshing look. Whether you are painting a new house or changing the color of the existing house, it is important to calculate the budget before starting the project.
This guide will help you calculate the cost to paint a 2-story house exterior of multiple sizes. We’ll also understand different type of paint materials and their cost. It is important to identify the material of your walls and the cost of the paint. Planning the budget in advance helps to complete the task within the budget and avoid unexpected errors.
Average Cost to Paint a 2-Story House Exterior
The average cost to paint a 2-story house exterior can range between $3 to $5 per square foot. In the US, a standard house consists of 2000 sq ft. So, the total cost to paint a standard 2-story house can take up to $3,000 to $12,000.
However, this is just a rough estimate. The accurate cost will depend upon the local paint and labor costs. It is recommended to consult multiple specialists before planning a budget. Budget planning can help you complete your project within the finances and on time.
2-Story House Size |
Average Cost |
| 1,500 | $4,500 to $9,000 |
| 2,000 | $6,000 to $12,000 |
| 2,500 | $7,500 to $15,000 |
| 3,000 | $9,000 to $18,000 |
| 3,500 | $10,500 to $21,000 |
| 4,000 | $12,000 to $24,000 |
Exterior Painting Cost by Material
Your home exterior can be made of different materials. The material of the exterior can affect the total cost of painting. Every type of wall requires different painting materials for better finish and protection of the walls. Such as wood houses may require oil paint and brick houses may require acrylic or mineral-based paint. Here are the costs to paint different types of exteriors.
Exterior Material |
Cost Per Sq Ft |
| Vinyl | $2 to $7 |
| Wood | $2 to $7 |
| Concrete | $3 to $6 |
| Stucco | $3 to $5 |
| Metal | $3 to $6 |
| Brick | $3 to $6 |
Breakdown of Painted Area of a House Exterior
Cost Factor |
Average Cost |
| Walls | $2 to $6 per square foot |
| Chimney | $150 to $400 |
| Doors | $100 to $300 per door |
| Windows | $50 to $150 per window |
Paint Cost
The paint that is used on a house exterior can be of different types depending on the material of the walls. It can be Acrylic paint, mineral-based, and masonry primer paint. It is important to identify the cost of paint materials to budget your home painting project.
Type |
Price Per Gallon |
| Acrylic paint | $25 – $70 |
| Mineral-based paint | $100 – $150 |
| Masonry primer | $20 – $50 |
| Alkyd (oil-based) | $20-$50 |
| Enamel | $25-$60 |
Acrylic Paint
Acrylic paint is a water-based paint that works well for house exteriors. It’s popular because it dries quickly and holds color for a long time. You can use it on surfaces like wood, brick, or siding. Acrylic paint is resistant to weather, fading, and cracking. It’s also easy to clean with soap and water. This type of paint is eco-friendly and safe for the environment.
Mineral-Based Paint
Mineral-based paint is made from natural materials like lime or clay. It’s perfect for painting stone or brick exteriors. This paint allows walls to breathe, which helps reduce moisture buildup. It’s very durable and can last many years without fading. Mineral-based paint is also eco-friendly and doesn’t contain harmful chemicals.
Masonry Primer
Masonry primer is used before painting rough surfaces like brick or concrete. It prepares the surface by sealing it, helping the paint stick better and last longer. This primer also prevents stains and cracks from showing through the top layer of paint. It’s an important first step to ensure a smooth finish on exterior walls.
Alkyd (Oil-Based) Paint
Alkyd paint is an oil-based option that provides a glossy, durable finish. It’s often used on doors, window frames, and trim because it resists wear and tear. Alkyd paint takes longer to dry and requires paint thinner for cleaning. It offers strong protection against the elements and is highly durable.
Enamel Paint
Enamel paint creates a hard, glossy finish that is perfect for surfaces that need extra protection, like doors and metal railings. It’s resistant to scratches and weather damage, making it ideal for outdoor projects. You can find both oil-based and water-based enamel paints. They are great for high-traffic areas because of their toughness.
Cost to Whitewash the House
Whitewash is diluted paint that adds a semitransparent white layer. It allows some wall texture and color to show through. Adjusting the paint-to-water ratio changes the coverage level. It is the most commonly used method to paint the exterior of a house. The cost to whitewash the house can range between $1.50 to $5.00 per square foot.
Labor Cost
The rate of labor varies with location. On average, in the US the labor cost to paint a 2-story house exterior can range between $200 to $500 per day per worker. Painting a standard-sized home takes 4 to 5 days with 2 to 3 workers. Labor includes site prep, removing loose paint, caulking, painting, and cleanup. It is essential to get rates from your local labors to plan your budget.
Conclusion
The average cost to paint a 2-story house exterior can range between $3 to $5 per square foot. In the US, a standard house consists of 2000 sq ft. So, the total cost to paint a standard 2-story house can take up to $3,000 to $12,000.
However, this is just a rough estimate. It is important to identify what type of paint would be good on your specific exterior. Because different exterior materials require different types of paints. It is also essential to identify the local rates of paints and labor to paint a 2-story house exterior. Planning in advance can help you run your project smoothly.
FAQs
Q1. Cost to paint a 2 story house exterior per square foot?
The average cost to paint a 2-story house exterior can range between $3 to $5 per square foot.
Q2. Cost to paint 3000 sq. ft. house exterior?
The Cost to paint 3000 sq. ft. house exterior can be $4,500 – $8,000.
Q3. How much to paint a 1,500 sq ft house exterior?
The cost to paint a 1,500 sq ft house exterior can be $2,200 – $4,000.
Q4. How much to paint a 2,000 square foot house exterior?
The cost paint a 2,000 square foot house exterior can range between $3,000 – $5,500.
