Interior & Exterior Painting

Overview

Painting is one of the most cost-effective ways to transform a home. A fresh coat of paint on interior walls brightens rooms and covers years of scuffs, while exterior painting protects siding from Canada's harsh freeze-thaw cycles, UV exposure, and moisture.

Interior painting typically covers walls, ceilings, trim, and doors. Exterior work involves siding, fascia, soffits, and trim. Professional painters handle the time-consuming prep work — patching holes, sanding, caulking gaps, and priming — that determines how long the finish will last.

For Canadian homeowners, timing matters. Exterior painting is best done between late spring and early fall when temperatures stay above 10 degrees Celsius, which most paint manufacturers require for proper curing.

What to Expect

• Colour consultation and paint selection
• Furniture moving and floor protection
• Patching nail holes, cracks, and drywall damage
• Sanding and priming surfaces
• Two coats of paint on walls and ceilings
• Trim, door, and baseboard painting
• Exterior power washing and scraping (for exterior jobs)
• Final walk-through and touch-ups

Cost Factors

Room count and square footage are the primary drivers for interior work. High ceilings, extensive trim, and accent walls with multiple colours add cost. For exteriors, the home's height, siding material, and condition matter — peeling or damaged wood siding requires more prep. Premium paints like Benjamin Moore Aura or Sherwin-Williams Duration cost more upfront but last longer. Labour rates are higher in major cities like Vancouver and Toronto.

How to Save Money

• Move furniture and remove wall plates yourself before painters arrive
• Stick to one or two colours per room to reduce switching time
• Choose quality mid-range paints rather than the most expensive line
• Bundle interior and exterior work with the same painter for a package discount
• Paint during the off-season (late fall or winter for interiors) when painters may offer lower rates

Hiring Tips

• Ask painters for a per-room or per-square-foot quote rather than hourly billing
• Confirm the quote includes prep work, primer, and two coats of finish paint
• Request references and photos of recently completed projects
• Verify the painter carries liability insurance — paint overspray or ladder damage can be costly
• Ensure they use drop cloths and tape to protect floors, fixtures, and trim

FAQ

How long does it take to paint a house interior?

A typical 1,500 square foot home takes 3 to 5 days for a professional crew. Larger homes or those with extensive trim and detail work may take a full week.

How often should I repaint the exterior of my home?

In Canada, exterior paint typically lasts 5 to 10 years depending on sun exposure, siding material, and paint quality. Homes in coastal British Columbia or the Prairies may need more frequent repainting due to moisture or extreme temperature swings.

Should I use paint with primer included?

Paint-and-primer products work well for recoating walls in similar colours. For new drywall, bare wood, or dramatic colour changes, a separate primer coat provides better coverage and adhesion.