Interior and Exterior Painting: What Determines the Price?

If you are considering having your house painted, the question that immediately springs to mind is probably: how much will it cost? Whether it concerns interior or exterior painting, prices can vary considerably. At Grand Renovation, we believe it is important to be honest and transparent about this. That is why we explain below, step by step, what the price of painting consists of. This gives you a clear picture of what will happen and ensures you will not be faced with unexpected costs or situations.

Painting costs: the most important factors

The price of painting does not depend on one factor, but on several factors together. These include the preparation of the surface, the type of paint, the degree of difficulty, and the number of coats required. We will go through everything with you.

Preparing the surface

A smooth and durable end result starts with good preparation. This often takes more time than many people expect and largely determines the price.

• Repairs: Cracks, holes, or wood rot must first be repaired.
• Sanding and cleaning: The surface must be smooth and free of grease so that the paint can adhere properly.
• Applying primer: A primer coat is required for bare surfaces or large color differences.

The more preparation required, the higher the costs. But this also determines whether you will still be enjoying the paintwork in five years’ time. Poorly prepared paintwork can start to flake within two years.en.

The type of paint and materials

The choice of paint makes a big difference in quality, durability, and price.

• Interior paint: Often water-based (acrylic), low-odor, and quick-drying.
• Exterior paint: Usually solvent-based (alkyd), because it is more resistant to rain, sun, and temperature fluctuations.
• Special paints: Scratch-resistant lacquers, mold-resistant paint, or environmentally friendly alternatives. Slightly more expensive to purchase, but often more economical in the long term.

Cheap paint may seem attractive, but often needs to be reapplied more quickly. Quality paint lasts longer, discolors less quickly, and provides better protection. Materials such as rollers, brushes, tape, and scaffolding are also part of the total price.

Difficulty and accessibility

Not every painting project is the same. Sometimes it goes smoothly, sometimes it requires more time and craftsmanship.

• Large surfaces: Straight walls and ceilings can be finished relatively quickly.
• Details and precision work: Window frames, banisters, or moldings require more time and attention.
• Difficult areas: Painting outdoors at height requires ladders or scaffolding, which affects the price.

The weather also plays a role in exterior painting. Weather that is too wet or too hot can cause delays, sometimes making a project take longer.

The number of coats of paint

A good coverage and beautiful result usually requires several coats.

• One coat: Possible for maintenance or with very good coverage paint.
• Two or more coats: Often standard, so that the color is nice and even and the paint lasts longer.

Each extra coat means more material and labor. However, this pays for itself in the lifespan and appearance of the work.

Painting price per square meter: guidelines

Most painters charge per square meter. This gives a good impression of the costs.

Interior painting: $35–$55 per square foot

Exterior painting: $42–$65 per square foot

These are guideline prices. The final costs depend on the condition of your home and your requirements. For individual items, such as doors or window frames, a fixed price per item often applies.

Interior and exterior painting compared

Interior painting

Inside, it’s all about appearance, atmosphere, and comfort. Smoothly painted walls, ceilings, doors, and window frames give a fresh look and contribute to a pleasant living environment. You can also achieve a lot with the right colors: light shades make rooms look bigger, while warm colors create a cozy atmosphere.

Exterior painting

Outside, painting is not only for appearance, but mainly for protection. It prevents wood from rotting or window frames from losing their strength. Good exterior painting extends the life of your home and prevents expensive repairs. In addition, a well-maintained exterior increases the value of your home. A well-maintained home is more attractive when selling or renting.

House painting costs: examples

To make it more concrete, here are some practical examples:

Painting the interior of an apartment (60 m²): approximately €1,800 – €2,400

Painting the exterior of a single-family home: on average €4,000 – €6,000

Doors and window frames (per item): €75 – €150

Every home is different, and so is the final price. But if you have several parts or rooms painted at the same time, you can often save money by combining the work. Planning during a quiet season (e.g., winter for interior work or summer for exterior work) can also be more favorable in terms of price and scheduling.

Why choose Grand Renovation?

Painting requires precision and craftsmanship. Anyone renovating their home naturally wants the result to be exactly as planned, without surprises or compromises. Our team knows better than anyone how this type of work affects the appearance of your home and your enjoyment of it.

At Grand Renovation, we take care of everything for you. Your investment will never be wasted. We work quickly, professionally, and to a high standard, using top-quality materials, the latest trends, transparent prices, and the best painters, backed up by an impressive portfolio and excellent reviews.

Would you like to know how much it will cost to paint your home? Feel free to contact us. We provide honest advice, prepare a customized quote, and ensure a result that you will enjoy for years to come.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about painting

How often should exterior painting be done? On average, every 5 to 7 years. With good maintenance, this can be longer. Watch for signs of wear, such as peeling paint or cracks, so you can touch up in time.

Which is better: painting yourself or hiring a professional? Doing it yourself may seem cheaper, but a professional will deliver a neater and more durable result. It also saves a lot of time and stress, especially in hard-to-reach places or on large surfaces.

Which paint is most suitable for interior use? Water-based paint (acrylic paint) is usually the best choice: low odor, quick drying, and easy to apply. Special mold-resistant paint may be required for damp areas such as bathrooms.

Can I have interior painting done all year round? Yes, interior painting can be done at any time. Exterior painting requires dry weather, which is why it is usually done in spring and summer.

Does painting increase the value of my home? Yes, absolutely. A well-maintained and neatly painted home looks more cared for and can fetch a higher price when sold or rented.

How long does a painting project take on average? That depends on the scope. Painting an apartment can be done in a few days, while painting the entire exterior of a house often takes one to two weeks.

Do I get a warranty on the paintwork? At Grand Renovation, you always get a warranty on the paintwork. This varies per project, but you can count on several years of warranty on both materials and workmanship.

Are there special paints that last longer or provide better protection? Yes, there are paints with extra protection against UV, moisture, or scratch resistance. These are slightly more expensive, but they extend the life and maintenance interval of your paintwork.