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How Long Will It Take to Paint Your House?

Starting a painting project is an exciting task that can significantly improve the look and protection of your home. However, a key question arises, “How long will it take to paint my house?” The answer depends on several factors, including the size of your home, the current condition of the paint, and the amount of preparation needed. In this post, we’ll walk through the interior and exterior painting timeline, focusing mainly on the steps involved in exterior painting and what to expect at each stage.

Painting the Interior

The process of updating the interior of your home with a fresh coat of paint is usually quicker compared to painting the exterior. Let’s break down the stages:

Preparation (1-2 days)

Clearing the Area: Initially, the rooms destined for a makeover need to be emptied of furniture, or alternatively, the furniture can be covered to shield it from paint droplets.

Wall Preparation: The canvas for your new color palette, the walls, may need a spa day to become paint-ready. This includes cleaning, patching up any holes, and gentle sanding to smooth out rough patches.

Priming and painting (2-3 days)

Priming: If the walls in your home have noticeable stains or you are planning a dramatic color change, applying a primer coat is a crucial step in the painting process. A primer will help cover the old stains and provide a suitable surface for the new paint to adhere to, ensuring that the color you’ve chosen shows up accurately and the finish is durable over time. This preparatory step sets the stage for a smooth painting experience and a long-lasting, vibrant result.

Painting: Typically, applying two coats of paint is the standard practice to achieve a solid, even color. However, a third coat of paint may be necessary when a deeper or more vibrant color depth is desired. This additional coat can help achieve the desired shade and ensure the color looks full and even across all surfaces

Drying and Settling (1 day)

Once the new paint is applied, the walls will need time to dry and cure, which can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day, depending on the type of paint used. Allowing sufficient drying time ensures the paint sets properly and delivers a durable and smooth finish.

Exterior Home Painting Takes Longer

Exterior home painting is a little more tedious of a task. Home exteriors must be appropriately prepped for the paint to set. Let’s take a look at how long it takes to paint the exterior of homes:

Preliminary Lead Paint Test (1 day)

For homes built before 1978, a lead test is the opening act to ensure the safety curtain is up. The test is quick, but if it comes back positive for lead, removal can be a lengthy process. Lead often extends the project anywhere from a few days to several weeks.

Preparation (2-4 days)

Cleaning: The exterior demands a thorough cleansing to evict dirt, mildew, and loose paint. This cleaning spree can last from a few hours to a couple of days.

Dry Rot Repairs: At SFW Painting, we pride ourselves on being the best local painters and highly skilled carpenters. Our skilled carpenters are adept at repairing or replacing any sections marred by dry rot, ensuring a robust foundation for the new paint.

Sanding and Priming (1-2 days)

The exterior surfaces might need to attend a sanding and priming workshop to ensure they are in prime condition to bond with the paint.

Painting (3-5 days)

First Coat: The first layer of paint makes its entrance. Its application can span a few days, dictated by the size of your home and the chosen painting method.

Second Coat: A second coat follows suit to ensure durability and color vibrancy,

Weather Delays (Variable)

The weather can be an unpredictable character in this process, especially in Oregon and Washington. Rain, humidity, and extreme temperatures can cause unforeseen delays.

Average Total Days for a 3000 Square Foot Home

So, now that you have a better understanding of how the process works, you can finally answer the pesky question “how long will it take to paint my house?”

Interior: 2 to 6 days

Exterior: 3 to 10 days

About SFW Painting

The process of painting your home involves several steps, each important to ensure a well-done job. Understanding what each phase entails, you can better plan your schedule and know what to expect. At SFW Painting, we offer more than just painting services. Our team of skilled craftsmen is dedicated to ensuring your home looks great with a fresh coat of paint and is well-protected against various outdoor elements. Furthermore, we have a team of skilled carpenters that can handle any repairs necessary. So, if you’re ready to stop asking how long will it take to paint my house, and start painting, reach out for a FREE estimate.