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Exterior House
Paint Calculator

Calculate exactly how much paint you need for your home's exterior. Get estimates for any house size, siding type, and paint quality.

Enter Your Home Details

sq ft

Your Estimate

Exterior Wall Area

2,000 sq ft

2,300 sq ft total paintable area

Paint Needed

14 gallons

2 coats @ 350 sq ft/gal

Primer Needed

8 gallons

@ 300 sq ft/gal coverage

Estimated Paint Cost

$560 – $770

+ $240 primer

Estimated Labor Cost

$3,000 – $6,000

Professional exterior painting rates

Total Project Estimate

$3,800 – $7,010

Paint + Primer + Labor

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about exterior house painting

A typical 2,000 sq ft home requires 10-15 gallons of exterior paint for two coats. The exact amount depends on your siding type, surface texture, and whether you're including trim. Our calculator accounts for all these factors to give you an accurate estimate.

Exterior house painting typically costs $1.50-$4.00 per square foot, including labor and materials. For a 2,000 sq ft home, expect to pay $3,000-$8,000 total. DIY can cut costs by 50-60%, but professional painters ensure proper prep and lasting results.

Primer is recommended for bare wood, new siding, stains, or dramatic color changes. Self-priming paints work for repaints over similar colors. When in doubt, use primer—it improves adhesion and helps your topcoat last longer.

Two coats is standard for exterior painting and provides the best durability and coverage. One coat may suffice for touch-ups or when using the same color. Some premium paints advertise one-coat coverage, but two coats typically last longer.

Late spring through early fall is ideal—temperatures between 50-85°F with low humidity. Avoid painting in direct sunlight, before rain, or when temperatures drop below 50°F at night. Morning shade followed by afternoon sun is perfect.