The easiest way to upgrade your home is to give it a brand new paint job.
On the surface this may sound like an easy task, but besides the array of colors to choose from, there are also different textures and prices to choose from. Here are some guides to help you with your options when it comes to painting the interior or exterior of your home.
## The Cost Of The Paint ##
The cost of the materials is very important, but how much of it you need is equally important. You don't want to pay for too much or conversely to run out of paint, so making sure you have the right measurements is vital. The paint is going to run anywhere from $12 to $50 a gallon. That doesn't mean you have to buy the highest priced paint. The cost of the paint consists of about 15% of the job, whereas the labor cost makes up about 85%.
## Preparing The Surface ##
Make sure to get rid of any wood on the exterior of your home that is rotten or siding that needs to be repaired. If you are switching from a dark color to a light color, it will take a lot more paint. You should have your house power washed before having it painted, in order to give it a good base to start from.
## Labor ##
When you are painting the inside of your home take into consideration the baseboards, crown molding, wainscoting and any other specialty areas that will need to be included in the estimate. Some painters will give you quotes by the job or by the hour.
## Trompe L'oeil And Murals ##
If you are having a mural or special technique done inside your home, like trompe l'oeil, this is a completely different approach. You will meet with an artist and they will provide their own paints and supplies.
## Tips ##
There are actually seasons where you can have your home painted less expensively. Summer seems to be the key months where there is a lot of work and quotes from painters are higher. You'll find more affordable quotes during late fall, winter and early spring.
## What Will It Cost To Have My Home Painted? ##
This will eventually depend on whether you are having the interior or exterior painted. It will also depend on the amount of space that is going to be painted. And don’t forget: try to get good quality paint - it will be worth your expense in the long run.
Lila McDowell
