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

One of the quickest ways to renew the look and give proper weather protection to a house is by painting its exterior. Generally, the cost to paint house exterior Australia ranges from $4,000 to $15,000, depending on the size of the house and its condition.

But for most property owners, the initial question is, how much should I budget? There is no one-size-fits-all price. It depends on many parts, not just paint. From surface type to access height, each detail adds to the final figure. 

This guide highlights the house exterior painting cost, directs you through factors that may affect costs clearly, and provides tips for smart savings. Let’s dive deeper into it. 

Average Cost to Paint a House Exterior in Australia

In Australia, the average exterior painting cost Australia ranges from $4,000 and $15,000 for painting the exterior of your house. 

Small single-storey houses will cost on the lower side, while double-storey or large houses will cost on the higher side. Such costs also vary depending on their sizes and requirements.

The tables below show the clear price breakdown. Let’s have a look at them.

1. Average Exterior Painting Cost by House Size

Here are the exterior house repainting cost Australia, depending on the house size.

2. Exterior Painting Cost per Square Metre

The table below gives you the exterior painting cost checklist.

3. Average Labour Rates for Painters

The table shows the professional exterior painters cost by rate type.

4. Extra Costs That May Apply

There are additional exterior paint job cost Australia to consider. Here they are:

Apart from additional costs, for small repairs or upgrades, consider hiring minor exterior repair services alongside painting for better efficiency.

What Affects the Cost of Painting a Home Exterior?

Many factors determine the cost of painting the exterior of a house. Let’s look at the cost factors for house exterior painting in detail. 

1. Size and Height of the House

The size of the house has a direct impact on painting cost. Larger houses require more paint, man-hours, and time for painting. Two-storey houses cost more because of safety measures, and as their height increases, their painting costs increase. There may be a requirement for scaffolding, ladders, or lifting equipment, which adds setup time and hire charges to the final quote. 

2. Type of Exterior Surface

The cost varies significantly due to the surface material. Weatherboard vs brick exterior paint cost differs because each surface behaves differently. The fact is, brick surfaces are not as volatile as weatherboards and are much easier to paint. Hence, the paint cost of a brick house tends to be less. Additionally, in the case of render or concrete surfaces, the paint cost increases as the surface requires sealing.

3. Existing Paint Condition

Old paint condition also impacts the cost. Flaking, blisters, cracks, or areas where the paint has oxidized will all add more time. Paint has to be scraped off, sanded down, repaired, or primed in such condition. Houses located in areas where there is ocean air or lots of sun will require more work before painting.

4. Paint Type and Quality

The selection of paint is another consideration. Premium vs standard exterior paint cost differs mainly in durability and protection. Standard paint is cheaper, but it will not withstand the sun and rain as long. Higher-end paint is more expensive, but it is more resistant to the sun and water, in addition to lasting longer. Furthermore, high-end paint might require fewer coats, thus lowering labor costs.

5. Preparation and Repair Work

The preparation work often determines the exterior painting preparation cost. The pressure washer cleans away dirt and mildew. Gaps, cracks, and timber damaged by insects need to be fixed before painting. These steps require time and increase cost, but extend the life of paints. For larger renovations or exterior upgrades, consider using renovation contractors for exterior upgrades to combine repairs and painting efficiently.

6. Access and Safety Requirements

Easy access maintains low costs. Narrow side roads, long blocks, trees, and adjacent buildings slow down the process. Professional exterior painters working at height need to follow safety guidelines, using harnesses, railings, and personal protective equipment. These steps protect workers but increase labor hours and equipment expenses.

7. Location and Local Rates

Location is also a contributing factor to painter prices in Australia. In most cases, cities such as Sydney and Melbourne tend to require higher labor costs compared to other regions. Lower pricing can be obtained in other regions, but this might lead to a longer waiting period, thus impacting the final price to be charged.

Tips to Save on Painting Costs

With smart planning, you can reduce costs while keeping quality high. Here are practical ways to save without compromising quality.

1. Address Small Problems Early

Repair cracks, holes, or rotten wood before the painters’ arrival. Clean surfaces promote adhesion of paint and reduce labor costs included in the preparation of surfaces.

2. Choose Colors Carefully

Choose colors wisely. Dark colors tend to last shorter under direct sunlight. Light colors are known to last longer and thus do not require frequent repainting.

3. Schedule During Quieter Months

The period during late autumn and winter tends to experience low demand. Painters may be flexible with their timing or provide discounts, so you can get a better deal.

4. Supply Your Own Paint

Some painters will permit paint to be brought in from the clients. This allows control over both cost and quality. This has to be agreed to before commencing work.

5. Compare Multiple Quotes

Obtain at least three quotes. Look past the lowest price and see what is included, especially the exterior paint warranty and durability. Quotes will clarify prices.

Trusted Tradie Network: Helps You Find the Right Painter

Finding a painter you can rely on is just as important as the price. The Trusted Tradie Network provides homeowners with trustworthy, verified exterior painters who meet high standards in quality and safety.

You can request quotes in one spot, rather than calling different contractors to inquire about their services. Every tradie profile shows experience details, service areas, and customer feedback to help you make clear comparisons.

The platform focuses on licensed and insured painters, so your home is protected, meeting all Australian regulations. You will also save time by avoiding unreliable listings.

The Trusted Tradie Network makes it easier to find painters who come on time, explain the costs clearly, and do the proper job. For the homeowner who wants peace of mind, it removes the guesswork from the process.

Conclusion

Wrapping up, from the exterior house refinishing cost guide, it is clear that painting the exterior of your home is an investment when it comes to aesthetic appeal and durability. 

Although the cost may vary, the more you understand the factors that drive this cost, the more control you will have over the situation. 

Another thing that counts when it comes to exterior house painting is choosing the right contractor for the job. Proper exterior house painting will withstand the weather, last longer, and improve the streetscape. 

So, arrange paint quotes carefully and thoughtfully, and do not hesitate to ask the right questions.

FAQs

1. How much does it cost to paint a house exterior in Australia?

Painting a house exterior in Australia usually costs between $4,000 and $15,000, depending on the size, surface type, paint quality, and whether preparation or repairs are needed before painting.

2. What type of paint is best for Australian weather?

Acrylic exterior paint works best in Australia. It handles heat, sun, rain, and coastal conditions well. Premium paints last longer, resist fading, and protect your walls better than standard paints.

3. Does exterior painting include preparation work?

Most quotes include basic cleaning and minor repairs, but extra preparation like sanding, patching, or timber repair can cost more. Always clarify with your painter what is included in the price.

4. Do I need council approval to paint my house exterior in Australia?

Usually, you do not need council approval unless your home is heritage-listed or part of strict local planning rules. Check with your local council to be sure before starting.

5. How do I find a reliable exterior painter near me in Australia?

You can use platforms like Trusted Tradie Network to find verified, licensed painters nearby. With it, you can compare quotes, check reviews, and choose professionals who have experience and provide clear pricing and warranties.