How Much to Paint Exterior of House UK

How Much to Paint the Exterior of a House in the UK?

Painting the exterior of a house is one of the most effective ways to refresh its appearance, protect it from the elements and enhance its kerb appeal. Whether you are preparing to sell, modernising a tired façade or simply maintaining your home, knowing how much the project will cost in the UK is essential to planning and budgeting.

In this article, we explore the typical costs of painting a house exterior, what factors influence the price, how the process works, and what homeowners should consider before hiring a decorator or taking on the task themselves. From detached houses to terraced properties, the cost can vary significantly depending on the size, surface material, access and condition of the existing paintwork. Understanding these variables can help you approach your project with confidence and avoid unexpected surprises.

What Is Exterior House Painting?

Exterior house painting involves applying protective and decorative coatings to the outside walls of a building. This typically includes rendering or brickwork, as well as other features such as fascias, soffits, bargeboards, and sometimes external doors and window frames. The process protects against weather damage, damp penetration and surface degradation caused by pollution, UV exposure and general wear.

Professional painters will often begin by cleaning and preparing the surfaces, repairing cracks or defects and applying primer or undercoat before finishing with specialist masonry paint. The result is not only cosmetic but also structural, as a well painted exterior can prolong the lifespan of your external walls and improve thermal efficiency.

Why Exterior Painting Is Worth the Investment

Painting the outside of your home can add instant visual appeal and is frequently cited by estate agents as a key factor in first impressions. A freshly painted façade makes a property feel cared for, up to date and well maintained. For homeowners planning to sell, this can translate into faster offers and stronger valuations.

From a maintenance point of view, exterior painting creates a barrier that helps protect against moisture ingress, which can lead to structural issues if left unchecked. Masonry paint is breathable, allowing moisture to escape from the walls while preventing water from getting in. For homes in coastal areas or those exposed to harsher weather conditions, this protection is especially important.

Do You Need Planning Permission?

In most cases, you do not need planning permission to paint the exterior of your house. However, there are exceptions. If your home is a listed building, located in a conservation area, or subject to an Article 4 Direction, you may need to seek approval before changing the colour or finish of your exterior. Some councils are particularly strict about alterations to historic or visually sensitive areas.

Before beginning work, it is wise to contact your local planning authority or check their website to confirm whether any restrictions apply. If permission is required and you proceed without it, enforcement action could be taken, and you may be required to undo the work at your own expense.

What Does It Cost to Paint the Outside of a House?

The cost of painting the exterior of a house in the UK typically ranges from around one thousand to several thousand pounds, depending on the scope of work. A small terraced house may cost approximately one to two thousand pounds, while a larger detached property could range from three to five thousand pounds or more. These figures are based on professional labour and standard quality materials.

Factors that affect the overall cost include the size and height of the property, the number of storeys, the condition of the surfaces, and the need for scaffolding or specialist equipment. Houses with rendered or pebbledash walls may require more preparation, which adds to the labour cost. Likewise, if there is existing flaking paint, cracks or algae growth, additional cleaning and repair work will be needed before new paint can be applied.

To manage your budget effectively, it is important to get at least two or three quotes from reputable decorators. Check that the quotes include surface preparation, materials, labour and any necessary access equipment. While it may be tempting to choose the cheapest option, make sure the contractor has experience with exterior work and is using the right products for your type of property.

The Timeline and What to Expect

Exterior painting projects are typically carried out between spring and early autumn when the weather is mild and dry. The time required will depend on the size and complexity of your house, but for an average three bedroom semi detached property, the work might take between five and ten days.

The process begins with washing down the walls, removing loose or damaged paint, repairing cracks and applying fungicidal treatment if necessary. Once dry, a primer or stabilising solution is added, followed by one or two coats of masonry paint. Weather conditions play a major role in the schedule, as rain and low temperatures can affect drying times and overall quality.

It is important to note that access can slow down the process. If scaffolding is needed, it must be erected and dismantled before and after the painting. In some cases, cherry pickers or tower scaffolds are used instead. These logistical details can extend the project duration, especially for taller or awkwardly shaped buildings.

Who Should You Hire for the Job?

While some confident DIYers may attempt to paint a ground floor wall or garage, full house exteriors should be left to professionals. Exterior painting requires safe working at height, careful surface preparation and knowledge of the right products for different materials. Qualified decorators will have the equipment, training and insurance to complete the job safely and to a high standard.

When choosing a tradesperson, look for those who specialise in exterior work, ideally with references or examples of similar projects. Membership of a professional trade body or an accreditation such as TrustMark or SafeContractor can provide additional reassurance. Always agree on the full scope of work in writing before the job begins.

Energy Efficiency and Sustainable Choices

While painting your house will not directly change your energy rating, it can support the performance of insulation and external wall systems. Breathable masonry paint helps regulate internal humidity and keeps moisture out, supporting a healthier and more thermally efficient environment. Some manufacturers now offer eco-friendly paints with low VOCs that are better for both health and the environment.

If you are considering additional energy saving measures such as external wall insulation, this should be done before painting. Trying to retrofit insulation after painting will require reworking the surfaces, adding to costs and labour. Coordinating these improvements can lead to long term savings and improved EPC performance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

A common mistake is choosing the wrong paint for the surface. Not all masonry paint is suitable for all substrates, and using an incompatible product can lead to peeling, blistering or poor adhesion. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and ensure that preparation is thorough.

Another pitfall is underestimating the importance of good weather. Attempting to paint in damp or cold conditions can ruin the finish and lead to premature failure. It is also important not to skip the prep work. A beautifully applied topcoat will not last if it is sitting on crumbling render or untreated mildew.

Will It Add Value to Your Home?

Fresh exterior paint can make a significant difference to how your home is perceived. It helps your property stand out, appear well maintained and often makes photographs more appealing in estate listings. While it may not directly add value in the way a kitchen extension might, it can help your property sell more quickly and for closer to asking price.

For landlords or investors, exterior repainting is also a worthwhile move to attract quality tenants and reduce void periods. It demonstrates pride in the property and often supports better rental returns by improving the overall appearance and feel of the home.