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If you are planning a refresh for your home, one of the first questions that comes up is, how much does it cost to paint a house? It is a fair question and an important one, especially for homeowners across British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba where climate, home styles, and labour markets can vary.
The short answer is that the cost depends on several factors, including whether you are painting the interior or exterior, the size of your home, the level of preparation required, and the quality of materials used. This guide breaks everything down clearly so you can understand how much does it cost to paint a house and plan your budget with confidence.
When homeowners ask how much does it cost to paint a house, they are usually looking for a realistic range rather than a single number. Across Western Canada, most professional painting projects fall into the following general ranges.
Interior painting typically costs between $3 and $7 per square foot depending on wall height, condition, and finish selection. Exterior painting usually ranges from $2 to $6 per square foot due to added preparation and access requirements.
For a typical single family home, this often translates to:
Understanding how much does it cost to paint a house starts with recognizing that no two homes are the same. These figures provide a baseline, not a final quote.
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Interior projects are often the first step homeowners take when refreshing a space. If you are wondering how much does it cost to paint a house from the inside, here is what usually influences the price.
Most painters price interior work based on square footage, room count, or a combination of both. Bedrooms, living rooms, kitchens, and hallways are all priced differently based on complexity.
Typical interior price ranges include:
Ceiling height, trim work, doors, baseboards, and wall condition all affect how much does it cost to paint a house interior. Homes with vaulted ceilings or extensive trim naturally require more labour and time.
Paint quality also plays a role. Higher quality paints cost more upfront but often provide better coverage and longer lasting results.
Exterior painting is more demanding and typically more expensive. When homeowners ask how much does it cost to paint a house exterior, the answer depends heavily on access, surface condition, and materials.
Exterior projects often require power washing, scraping, sanding, caulking, and priming before painting even begins. These preparation steps are critical for long term durability, especially in Western Canada where weather conditions are tougher on building exteriors.
Common exterior price ranges include:
Siding type also affects how much does it cost to paint a house exterior. Wood, stucco, and older surfaces usually require more prep than vinyl or composite siding.
Several key variables determine how much does it cost to paint a house. Understanding these factors helps you evaluate quotes more confidently.
Home size is the most obvious factor. Larger homes require more materials and labour.
Surface condition is another major driver. Cracks, peeling paint, water damage, or drywall repairs increase prep time and cost.
Accessibility matters as well. Homes with steep roofs, tight spaces, or difficult access require additional safety equipment and setup time.
Location also plays a role. Labour costs in major cities like Vancouver and Calgary tend to be higher than in smaller communities.
Seasonality affects pricing too. Spring and summer are peak seasons, while fall can offer more scheduling flexibility.
If you want a clear breakdown of how much does it cost to paint a house for your specific home, speaking with a professional early can help. You can get started by visiting our estimate page and clicking contact us.
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Some homeowners ask whether painters charge by the hour or by square footage when calculating how much does it cost to paint a house. Both models exist.
Hourly rates typically range from $40 to $100 per hour depending on experience, company size, and project complexity.
Square foot pricing is more common for full home projects because it provides clearer expectations upfront. It also helps homeowners compare quotes more easily.
Neither method is inherently better. What matters is transparency and a clear scope of work.
Trying to save money by doing it yourself is tempting, especially when thinking about how much does it cost to paint a house. However, DIY projects come with hidden costs.
Paint, tools, ladders, drop cloths, and supplies add up quickly. More importantly, time and physical effort are often underestimated.
Professional painters bring experience, efficiency, and proper preparation that most DIY projects lack. In many cases, hiring a professional results in better value over time because the work lasts longer and looks better.
The best way to truly understand how much does it cost to paint a house is to get an on site or virtual estimate. A proper quote should include:
Avoid estimates that are vague or rushed. A good estimate reflects careful planning and attention to detail.
If you are ready to get clarity on how much does it cost to paint a house in your area, you can request an estimate by visiting our estimate page and clicking contact us.
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Understanding how much does it cost to paint a house does not have to feel overwhelming. With the right information, you can budget realistically and avoid surprises.
Painting remains one of the most effective ways to improve the look, feel, and value of your home. Whether you are updating interiors, protecting an exterior, or preparing for a sale, a professional paint job is an investment that pays off.
If you are considering a painting project and want clear, local pricing guidance, our team works with homeowners across Western Canada. Reach out through our estimate page and contact us to start the conversation.
How much does it cost to paint a house in Western Canada?
How much does it cost to paint a house typically ranges from $3,000 to $10,000 for interiors and $4,000 to $20,000 or more for exteriors, depending on size and prep.
How much does it cost to paint a house per square foot?
Interior painting usually costs $3 to $7 per square foot, while exterior painting ranges from $2 to $6 per square foot.
Does paint quality affect how much it costs to paint a house?
Yes. Higher quality paints cost more upfront but often reduce the need for frequent repainting and deliver better coverage.
Is it cheaper to paint a house yourself?
DIY may reduce upfront labour costs, but tools, time, and potential mistakes often make professional painting a better long term value.
How can I get an accurate estimate for how much does it cost to paint a house?
The best way is to request a professional estimate that considers your home’s size, condition, and location.
Since 1991, Student Works Painting has delivered reliable, high-quality painting services across British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. Whether you need interior or exterior work, residential or commercial painting, we’re proud to offer exceptional results backed by a 3-year guarantee and over 150,000 homes painted.
We don’t just talk about quality — we guarantee it. Our university and college student teams are motivated, well-trained, and committed to doing the job right the first time. From prep to cleanup, you’ll get professional service and clear communication every step of the way.
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