Your house improvement plan also includes repainting the exterior trim. It is an important element of outdoor appearance and cannot be left old and rusty. If you want to know what is the cost to paint exterior trim and soffit of the house, then this blog is for you. We have broken down the cost, the factors that influence this cost and how you can plan the budget for painting the exterior trim.
Average Cost Breakdown to Paint Exterior Trim
The cost depends on whether you want to hire a professional or you are going to paint it yourself.
DIY Costs
If you are going to paint it by yourself, then you will need materials and supplies for painting
Materials:
Paint: $30 to $80 per gallon (depending on quality)
Primer: $15 to $50 per gallon (if needed)
Supplies: Brushes, rollers, drop cloths, painter’s tape: $50 to $100
Total DIY Estimate: $100 to $500, depending on the house’s size and the quality of the paints.
Professional Costs
If you are hiring a professional, then it includes material and labor costs to paint the exterior trim.
Labor: $1.50 to $4.00 per linear foot of trim.
Paint: $30 to $80 per gallon
Primer: $15 to $50 per gallon (if applicable)
Factors Influencing the Cost of Exterior Trim Painting
Size of the House
The area of the house should be considered important. A big house will have a bigger trim, and the cost will be greater. Repainting it will take more paint and time.
Type of Trim
Trim can be made of different materials and the cost will vary based on this. Some materials, like wood, require more prep work. On the other side, substances like aluminium or iron are easier to paint.
Condition of Trim
A damaged trim needs extra work. It must be repaired before painting by scraping, sanding and filling. This will increase the cost of your budget.
Quality of Paint
Paints come in different types and have different qualities, so the price varies according to this. Your expense for painting exterior trim also depends on the paint you buy for this purpose.
Cost of Labor
The cost to paint exterior trim on the house is around $2.28 – $4.67 per linear foot, but this cost can change depending on the laborer’s expertise.
Accessibility
The cost can be increased if the trim is high and difficult to reach.
Types of Paint for Exterior Trim
There are various types of paints for the trim of houses.
Acrylic Latex Paint
These are water-based paints with high stability and dry quickly. They are also resistant to fading and harsh weather.
Oil-Based Paint
They are the preferable choice for wood because they give a smooth finish. These paints are durable and work well in high-traffic areas.
Alkyd Paint
Alkyd paints have a consistency like oil-based paints but are different. They are usually used on metal or wood trim.
Enamel Paint
They are highly durable and hard. These paints are mostly used on tough surfaces to avoid chipping and weathering.
Primer
Usually used on previously painted surfaces before repainting. They seal the surface and are used for proper adhesion.
Tips for Budgeting Your Improvement Project
- If hiring a professional, get quotes from different contractors and compare the costs to understand the rate range.
- To save money, schedule your repainting in the off-season i.e. fall and winter.
- Use high-quality paints because this will save you in the long run.
- Use durable materials and finishes so you don’t have to repaint the trim frequently.
- If possible, do the prep work by yourself to minimize labor costs.
Conclusion
Painting the exterior trim is as essential as other repairs. It is probably the first thing noticed by people, so it must be up to the mark. You should consider several things while painting it, including the cost to paint house trim, types of paints, and budgeting. This guide shows you everything necessary before you consider painting it. Follow these guides and tips to budget your repainting costs like a pro!
FAQs
How much does it cost to paint the exterior trim on the house?
The average cost to paint exterior trim is $2.28 – $4.67 per linear foot, which can vary on the basis of different factors.
What kind of paint is best for exterior trim?
Acrylic latex paint is the best option because it is highly durable and resistant to fading. It also dries quickly.
How many coats of paint should be used on exterior painted trim?
Two coats are usually recommended for trim because they give better coverage.
Should a primer be used before painting?
If the trim already has paint, then priming is highly recommended.
How much time is required to paint exterior trim?
It is dependent on the house’s size and the condition of the exterior trim.
