Homeowners in Arizona generally have to paint their exterior more often than other states.
- The heat can have its way your exterior, degrading the paint faster.
- HOAs require that exteriors meet a certain standard. That could mean a requirement to repaint your exterior every 7-8 years.
Painting a home in Arizona is a big decision, especially with all the intense sunshine and desert heat. If you’re looking to refresh your space, it’s essential to know the average costs involved. In this article, I’ll break down the costs, considerations, and tips for painting a home in Arizona.
How Much Does It Cost to Paint a Home in Arizona?
The cost to paint a home in Arizona can vary quite a bit. On average, homeowners can expect to pay $2,000 to $5,000 for painting the exterior of a home and about $1,000 to $3,000 for the interior. However, prices can climb higher for larger homes or homes with complex architectural details.
Let’s dive deeper into what factors influence these prices.
1. Size Matters: Home Square Footage
The size of your home plays a huge role in the total cost. Here’s a rough breakdown:
- Small Home (1,000 – 1,500 sq ft): $1,000 to $3,000
- Medium Home (1,500 – 2,500 sq ft): $3,000 to $5,000
- Large Home (2,500+ sq ft): $5,000 and up
Why does size matter so much?
Well, the larger the home, the more paint, prep work, and labor it requires. Plus, if your house is taller, like a two-story, you can expect the cost to be on the higher side since painters will need ladders or scaffolding.
The average home in Phoenix is 2,260 Sq ft.
2. The Type of Paint You Choose
Not all paints are created equal. High-quality paints last longer, resist fading (a big deal in Arizona), and provide better coverage, but they come with a higher price tag.
- Economy Paint: $20-$30 per gallon
- Mid-Range Paint: $50-$75 per gallon
- Premium Paint: $75-$110 per gallon
We go by this rule of thumb.
Don’t skimp on paint quality, especially in Arizona. That harsh sun can fade cheaper paints quickly, meaning you’ll end up repainting sooner than you’d like.
Hillis Brothers Approved Exterior Paints
We recently published a blog discussing the best exterior paints for Arizona exteriors. Here are our top five choices with their price per gallon.
- Sherwin Williams Duration Exterior Acrylic Latex: $102 Per Gallon
- Dunn Edwards EverShield: $74 Per Gallon
- Latitude By Sherwin Williams: $95 Per Gallon
- SuperPaint By Sherwin Williams: $76.99 Per Gallon
- SpartaShield By Dunn Edwards: $57 Per Gallon
3. Exterior vs. Interior Painting Costs
Exterior painting typically costs more than interior painting. It involves more preparation, especially with the Arizona elements at play (think stucco repairs, cleaning, and sealing).
Exterior Painting:
- Stucco Siding: $1.50 to $3.50 per sq ft
- Wood Siding: $1.50 to $4.00 per sq ft
- Brick or Stone: $2.00 to $4.50 per sq ft
Interior Painting:
- Walls Only: $1 to $3 per sq ft
- Walls + Ceilings: $2 to $4 per sq ft
- Trim and Baseboards: $1 to $3 per linear foot
If your home has unique architectural details or fancy moldings, expect to pay a bit more for those areas. They require extra time and a steady hand.
4. The Prep Work – Don’t Forget About This!
Prep work is a sneaky cost factor many people overlook. If your home has peeling paint, cracks, or any kind of damage, painters will need to handle this before they start applying that fresh coat.
- Power washing: $150 – $350
- Stucco or drywall repairs: $200 – $800
- Sanding and scraping: $100 – $300
If you’re thinking, “I’ll skip the prep work,” think again! Proper prep is essential for a smooth, long-lasting finish, especially in Arizona’s climate.
5. Labor Costs in Arizona
Labor is one of the most significant costs in any painting project. In Arizona, professional painters charge between $25 to $50 per hour. But if you’re hiring a crew, they often work faster and may charge by the project rather than hourly.
To put it in perspective:
- DIY Option: You’ll only pay for paint and supplies, but it could take you much longer.
- Hiring Professionals: Faster, better quality, but more expensive.
6. Additional Factors That Affect the Cost
- Height of Your Home: A two-story home costs more than a single-story because it requires more equipment and safety measures.
- Number of Colors: The more colors you use, the more you’ll pay. Each color switch means more work and time.
- Paint Finishes: Matte, satin, eggshell, or semi-gloss – each has a different cost. Gloss finishes are more durable but also more expensive.
The Cost to DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
You might be tempted to tackle the painting yourself to save money. Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:
DIY Costs:
- Paint (for a 1,500 sq ft house): 10-15 gallons ($200 to $600)
- Supplies (brushes, rollers, tape, drop cloths, etc.): $100 to $300
- Total DIY Estimate: $300 to $900
Hiring a Pro:
- 1,500 sq ft home: $2,000 to $4,000
- Professional Supplies: Included in the price
- Total Pro Estimate: $2,000 to $4,000
Yes, DIY is cheaper, but it comes at the cost of your time, effort, and possible frustration. And let’s face it, if you’re not experienced, the results might not look as crisp.
Tips to Save Money on Your House Painting Project
- Get Multiple Quotes: Don’t settle for the first bid. Compare quotes from at least three different painting companies.
- Do Some Prep Yourself: If you’re comfortable with it, handle some of the prep work yourself, like cleaning or patching small holes.
- Choose a Good Time of Year: Painting in Arizona’s cooler months (fall or spring) can sometimes save you money since painters aren’t as busy.
- Use the Same Color: Repainting your house the same color requires less paint and time, saving you money.
Understanding the Weather’s Impact
Arizona’s unique climate, with its scorching summers and cool winters, means your paint needs to be able to handle extremes. The heat can cause paint to dry too quickly, leading to cracks, while cooler temperatures can affect the paint’s adhesion. Always aim for spring or fall to paint when temperatures range between 60°F and 85°F.
Exterior vs. Interior: Which Should You Prioritize?
If you’re working on a budget, decide whether to tackle the interior or exterior first. In Arizona, the exterior takes a beating from the sun, so if you’re looking for longevity, prioritize painting the outside first. If you’re sprucing up to sell, a fresh interior coat can make your home feel brand new.
Final Thoughts
Painting your home is one of the most impactful ways to refresh its look and protect it from Arizona’s harsh climate. While costs can vary based on size, quality, and other factors, knowing what to expect helps you budget effectively. Whether you go DIY or hire a pro, remember that investing in quality paint and proper preparation will pay off in the long run.
If you’re ready to give your exterior a new look, reach out to the team at Hillis Brothers Painting for an exterior painting quote.