Exterior Painting

How much does exterior painting cost?

Exterior painting cost depends on home size, substrate type, surface condition, prep work required, and paint quality. National averages typically run $1.50–$4.00 per square foot of exterior surface, with most single-family homes ranging from $3,500 to $9,000+ for a full exterior repaint. Larger homes, multi-story properties, heavy prep needs (wood rot, siding repair, lead-safe practices), and premium paint products move the price higher. That 1 Painter provides a free, on-site walkthrough estimate so you know exactly what's included before any work begins.

How long does it take to paint the exterior of a house?

Most residential exterior painting projects take 3–7 days from start to finish, depending on home size, substrate, prep requirements, and weather. A typical single-story home runs 3–5 days; larger or multi-story homes may take a full week or more. Prep work, pressure washing, scraping, sanding, caulking, and priming, often accounts for half the timeline. Your That 1 Painter project manager will provide a clear day-by-day schedule during your estimate and keep you updated if weather delays push the timeline.

What is the best time of year to paint a house exterior?

Spring and fall are generally the best seasons to paint a home exterior nationwide. Mild temperatures (typically 50–85°F), low humidity, and minimal rain give paint optimal curing conditions. Summer works well in temperate zones; winter exterior painting is possible in mild-climate regions with the right products. Modern paints have wider temperature tolerances than in years past, but extreme heat, freezing temperatures, and rain within 24 hours of application can all compromise the finish. Check with your local That 1 Painter team for regional guidance on the best window in your area.

How often should I repaint my home's exterior?

Most home exteriors need repainting every 5–10 years, with the exact interval driven by substrate, climate exposure, and the quality of the previous paint job. Wood siding typically requires more frequent repainting (5–7 years) than fiber cement (10–15 years) or properly maintained stucco and brick (10+ years). South- and west-facing walls often fail first due to UV exposure. Watch for early warning signs: chalking, fading, cracking, peeling, or caulk failure around windows and doors. Catching these early protects the substrate underneath and keeps repaint costs down.

Do you pressure wash before painting?

Yes, pressure washing is a standard part of every That 1 Painter exterior project. Properly cleaning the surface removes dirt, chalking, mildew, loose paint, and contaminants that would prevent new paint from adhering correctly. Skipping or rushing this step is one of the most common reasons exterior paint jobs fail prematurely. Our crews use appropriate pressure settings and cleaning solutions for each substrate (wood, fiber cement, stucco, brick), then allow full drying time before any prep, priming, or painting begins.

What type of paint is best for exterior surfaces?

For most residential exteriors, a premium 100% acrylic latex paint is the right choice. Top-tier products like Sherwin-Williams Emerald Exterior, Benjamin Moore Aura Exterior, and PPG Timeless deliver excellent UV resistance, flexibility, mildew resistance, and color retention. Sheen depends on the surface: flat or low-sheen for siding and stucco; satin or semi-gloss for trim, doors, and shutters. Specialty substrates like brick or stucco may benefit from breathable mineral or elastomeric coatings. Your That 1 Painter project manager will recommend the right product for each surface during your estimate.

How many coats of paint do exterior surfaces need?

Most exterior projects require two finish coats over properly prepped (and primed where needed) surfaces. Bare wood, repaired areas, stains, and dramatic color changes typically need a quality primer or stain-blocker first. Some premium self-priming exterior paints can achieve full coverage in two coats over previously painted, sound surfaces. Single-coat applications are rarely durable on exterior substrates exposed to UV and weather. Cutting corners on coats is a common cause of premature fading and early failure.

Can you paint stucco, brick, and fiber cement?

Yes, That 1 Painter regularly paints stucco, brick, fiber cement (Hardie board), wood siding, vinyl, and aluminum. Each substrate requires the right product and prep approach. Stucco and brick benefit from breathable masonry or mineral-based coatings that allow moisture vapor to escape. Fiber cement holds paint exceptionally well when properly cleaned and primed. Brick can also be limewashed for a softer, more traditional finish. Our crews assess each surface during the estimate and recommend the product system that will deliver the best long-term result.

Do you repair wood rot, siding, or trim before painting?

Yes. Minor caulking, nail-hole filling, and small wood repairs are scoped into the prep stage of every project. Larger issues, significant wood rot, damaged siding panels, failed flashing, or extensive trim replacement, are quoted as add-ons so you can see exactly what carpentry work is needed before painting begins. Skipping rot repair before paint is one of the worst things you can do for a home exterior; paint over rotten wood traps moisture and accelerates failure. Our project managers flag any structural issues during the walkthrough and walk you through the repair options.

Do you offer a warranty on exterior painting?

Yes. That 1 Painter backs every exterior painting project with a 3-year transferable warranty across our network. If covered workmanship issues like premature peeling, blistering, or excessive fading appear during the warranty period, our team will inspect the issue and make it right per the warranty terms. The warranty is transferable to a new homeowner if you sell, which can be a strong selling point. Specific terms and exclusions are documented in your project paperwork.

How do I find a That 1 Painter location near me?

That 1 Painter operates through locally owned franchise locations across the United States. To find your nearest location, request a free estimate online or call us, we'll connect you with the team serving your area. Each location is independently owned and operated by a local owner who understands the climate, substrates, and architectural styles common to that region, while delivering the consistent service standards and 3-year warranty that come with the That 1 Painter brand.

How do I get a free exterior painting estimate?

Book your free exterior painting estimate online or call That 1 Painter. A local project manager will visit your home, assess the substrate condition, talk through color and product options, and deliver a clear, no-obligation written quote, typically within 24 hours of the walkthrough. The estimate includes prep work, paint products, labor, cleanup, and warranty terms so you can make a fully informed decision before any work begins.