Painting the exterior of your home might seem like a huge job, especially when you’ve got work, family, and other things to take care of. But knowing how long it will take can help you stay on track, avoid stress, and make sure the project goes smoothly.
This guide will break down the key things that affect how long it takes to paint your home’s exterior. Whether you’re hiring professionals or thinking about doing it yourself, this info will help you create a plan that works for you.
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Key Factors That Affect Exterior Painting Timelines
There are a few main factors that determine how long it takes to paint your home. Knowing these can help you figure out what to expect.
1. Size of Your Home
The size of your house makes a big difference. Small, one-story homes might take just a few days, but larger, two-story or more complex homes could take a week or longer. For example, painting a small cottage might take two or three days, but a bigger home with lots of details, like a porch or attached garage, might take over a week.
If you have a bigger house, you might need more painters or extra days to get everything done. Smaller homes can be finished faster with the same number of painters; but will take longer if there’s a small painting crew.
2. Condition of the Walls
If your walls are in good shape, like smooth with no cracks or peeling paint, it will take less time to prep and paint. But if your walls have damage, like peeling paint or rotted wood, repairs can add extra days to the job. Fixing these issues usually takes about two or three days, depending on how bad they are.
Older homes or houses with fancy details, like wood trim or decorative features, will take more time because those areas need extra care and attention. This could add hours or even days to the project.
3. Weather Conditions
Good weather is super important for painting a house. Dry, mild weather is the ideal because it helps the paint dry properly. Rain, high humidity, or really hot days can slow things down a lot. If it rains, you’ll need to wait for the exterior walls to dry. And for the interior walls the home must be at a low level of humidity to paint.
For the best results, aim to paint during spring or early fall when the weather is usually more predictable. Hot days can make the paint dry too fast, which can cause uneven coverage, while cool, cloudy days offer the best conditions.
4. Size of the Painting Crew
The number of people working on the project also matters! A bigger team can finish the job faster, while a smaller team will take longer. Professional painters often have the right tools to make the work go faster; but there are things, like drying time, that can’t be expedited.
A crew of two to three painters is ideal for most residential painting jobs here in London Ontario. A 2 person team of RGB House Painters can tackle any size home in London in just a few days.
You should read: Exterior Painting Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing Paint
Typical Timeline for Painting a Home’s Exterior
Here’s a general idea of how long it takes to paint different types of homes:
Small Homes (One Story)
For a small, single-story home, the job might take about 3 to 5 days. This includes cleaning, sanding, priming, and painting. Adding a garage or porch might add an extra day, and if you’re using bold colors, you may need more time for extra coats.
Medium Homes (Two Stories)
A medium-sized, two-story home usually takes 5 to 7 days to paint. Elements like shutters, trim, and having multiple windows can make it take longer. Second-story areas may also need special equipment, like ladders or scaffolding, to paint safely and efficiently. This will extend the length of the project.
Large or Complex Homes
Big houses or homes with fancy designs might take 7 to 10 days or even longer. Intricate features, like columns, wraparound porches, or dormer windows, can add time because they require careful attention to detail.
Simplified Painting Process Step-by-Step
- Preparation (1-3 Days): Cleaning the walls, fixing damage, sanding, and priming. If repairs are needed, this stage could take longer.
- Painting (2-5 Days): Applying one or two coats of paint. Darker or bolder colors might need more coats to look even.
- Touch-Ups and Cleaning (1-2 Days): Checking for missed spots and ensuring everything looks smooth and consistent.
How to Speed Things Up
Before we get to tips here are a few important notes to speed up your exterior painting project:
- Pick the Right Season: Spring or early fall is usually best.
- Book Early: If you’re hiring painters, schedule them months in advance.
- Prepare Your Home: Clear out obstacles and make sure painters have easy access to all areas.
Want to make the painting process even faster? Here are some tips:
- Get the Walls Ready: Make sure the surfaces are clean and smooth before painting. Washing and sanding any rough spots ahead of time will save you hours later.
- Hire Professionals: Experienced painters know how to get the job done efficiently. They have the right tools and skills to handle tricky spots, which can save days compared to a DIY effort.
- Check the Weather: Pick a time when the forecast shows dry, mild weather for several days in a row. Avoid starting if there’s a chance of rain.
- Use Good Paint and Tools: High-quality paint often needs fewer coats, and good brushes or sprayers make the work go faster. Investing in these upfront can save you a lot of time overall.
- Clear the Area: Move outdoor furniture, trim bushes, and cover plants near the house. This makes it easier for painters to move around and reduces delays.
Should You DIY or Hire a Pro?
Before you go the DIY route, it’s important to weigh your options carefully. Both the DIY and Pro approach has its benefits and challenges. Depending on your time, budget, and experience level you might have to consider one over the other. Here’s a breakdown of both:
Hiring Professionals
Hiring professional painters is often the quickest and most hassle-free option. We have the skills and tools to complete the job efficiently while delivering high-quality results. Here are a few things to note:
- Time: 3 to 7 days for most homes.
- Pros: Faster results, professional quality, and fewer mistakes. Professional painters can handle tricky spots, uneven surfaces, and high areas with ease. They also know the best techniques to ensure your paint lasts for years.
Doing It Yourself (DIY Painting)
If you’re on a budget or enjoy hands-on projects, a DIY paint job might be appealing. However, it requires time, patience, and the right equipment to achieve professional results.
- Time: 1 to 3 weeks or longer.
- Challenges: Slower pace, possible mistakes, and extra effort if you don’t have the right tools. Without experience, you may find it difficult to get an even coat or reach higher sections of your home.
No matter which option you choose, RGB House Painters is here to help! If you decide to go the professional route, our team can ensure your project is completed efficiently and beautifully. And if you’re going DIY, we’re happy to introduce to you our articles and tutorials we have on our website teaching you tips and tricks to DIY your painting project.
Why Painting Your Home Matters
Painting the exterior of your home isn’t just about looks—it also protects your home from weather, mold, and pests. A fresh coat of paint seals the exterior and keeps moisture out, which helps prevent damage like wood rot and structural issues. This added layer of protection ensures your home stays safe and sturdy for years to come.
At RGB House Painters, we’re here to make this process easy and stress-free for you. Our team uses high-quality materials and expert techniques to deliver a flawless finish that doesn’t just look great but also lasts. Whether you’re looking to boost your curb appeal or shield your home from the elements, we’re ready to help.
Plus, a freshly painted home can significantly increase your property value. If you’re planning to sell, our professional paint job can make your house stand out to potential buyers, giving it a clean, polished, and welcoming look. Let us take care of everything so you can enjoy the benefits without the hassle.
Conclusion
Painting your home’s exterior might take some time, but with the right plan and help, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you do it yourself or hire professionals, knowing what to expect will help you get the job done smoothly. In the end, a fresh coat of paint will make your home look great and keep it protected for years to come.
FAQ
How long should it take to paint the exterior of a house?
The timeline for painting a home’s exterior can vary based on several factors, including the size of your home, the condition of the surfaces, and the weather conditions. For a small, single-story home, it might take around 3 to 5 days, while larger homes could take up to 7 to 10 days or more. Working with professional painters can also shorten the timeline compared to a DIY approach.
Can weather impact the Exterior painting?
Yes, weather can significantly impact the exterior painting timeline. Ideal weather for painting is dry with moderate temperatures, as these conditions help paint to adhere properly and cure without issues. Rain, high humidity, or extreme temperatures can delay the process, as the paint needs optimal conditions to dry and cure. It’s always best to plan your painting project during favorable weather to minimize potential delays.
Should I hire professional painters or do it myself?
Hiring professional painters can save you time and ensure high-quality results. Professionals have the experience, tools, and efficiency needed to complete the job quickly, often in about 3 to 7 days for a small to medium-sized home. A DIY project, on the other hand, could take significantly longer—anywhere from 1 to 3 weeks or more—due to factors like inexperience, preparation time, and the need for multiple coats of paint.
What can I do to speed up the painting process?
To speed up the painting process, ensure that surfaces are properly prepared in advance, hire experienced painters, and plan your project during favorable weather. Additionally, make sure your home is easily accessible by moving outdoor furniture and trimming back bushes, which can help painters work more efficiently. Using high-quality paint and tools can also reduce the need for multiple coats, saving time.
When is the best time to paint my home’s exterior?
Here in London, Ontario, and in general, the best time to paint your home’s exterior is during dry, moderate weather—typically in the spring or early fall. These conditions help the paint to adhere and cure properly, resulting in a more durable finish. Avoid painting during the rainy season or extremely hot summer days. These conditions can negatively affect the quality and drying time of the paint.
