How Much Does it Cost to Paint a Room?

When you are ready to paint your room, you may wonder, “How much does it cost to paint a room?” There are several factors to consider, including the cost. Interior painting costs can vary based on factors such as the size of the room, the type of paint and primer used, the number of painters required, and more.

The cost to paint a room typically ranges from $3 to $7 per square foot. For example, a 330-square-foot living room may cost around $990 to $2,310 to paint. This price includes both labor and materials. Remember that these figures are general estimates and can vary depending on your location and specific requirements.

If you hire a professional painter, the average cost for a painting project is usually between $1,200 and $1,320 for a room of similar size. This cost includes priming and painting the walls.

The type of paint you choose will also impact the cost. Latex paint is commonly used for interior walls and is more affordable than oil-based paints. Additionally, if you need any wall repairs or extensive prep work, it may increase the total cost.

To estimate the amount of paint needed, you can expect one gallon of paint to cover approximately 350 to 400 square feet, but this can vary depending on the paint’s thickness and the texture of the painted surfaces.

Before painting, it’s essential to prepare the room by moving furniture, covering the floor with drop cloths, and using painter’s tape to protect the trim and other areas. The total cost will be higher if you plan to paint multiple coats or have different paint colors.

Factors to consider when you want to paint your room

When painting a room, you should consider several factors to ensure a successful and satisfying outcome. How many gallons of paint will be needed? Here are some essential factors to consider:

Color scheme: Choose a color palette that aligns with your desired mood and ambiance for the room. Consider how different colors will appear under various lighting conditions.

Lighting: Assess how the paint color will look in different lighting situations. Test paint samples on the walls and observe them throughout the day.

Room size: The size of the room can influence color choices. Lighter colors create an illusion of a larger space, while darker colors provide a cozy atmosphere.

Existing décor: Consider the room’s furniture, flooring, and other elements. Select a paint color that complements and enhances the existing décor.

Personal preference: Ultimately, choose a color that resonates with your taste and style, as you’ll be the one spending time in the room.

Finish and durability: Consider the different paint finishes available, such as flat, eggshell, satin, semi-gloss, or high-gloss. Choose a finish based on appearance and durability, especially for high-traffic areas or rooms prone to moisture.

Preparation and time: Properly prepare the room before painting, including cleaning the walls, repairing any imperfections, and using a primer if needed—factor in the time required for drying between coats and the overall schedule for completion.

Budget: Determine your budget for the painting project, considering the cost of paint, supplies, and any professional assistance. Quality colors and materials may offer better coverage, durability, and finish.

Environmental impact: If you’re concerned about the environmental impact, opt for low or zero-VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints, which emit fewer harmful emissions. These paints can contribute to better indoor air quality.

DIY or professional: Decide whether you want to undertake the painting yourself or hire a professional. Consider your skills, available time, and the complexity of the job. Image can be physically and mentally demanding.

Considering these factors, you’ll be better equipped to choose the right paint color and transform your room.

Factors in calculating the cost of painting a room

While you now understand the elements that go into a room, it is equally vital to understand the factors determining total painting costs. This comprises the room’s dimensions, wall height, trim, baseboards, ceilings, room style, geographic location, paint type, color, and finish.

There are many options available when choosing how to paint a room. Being aware of the differences can help keep your budget on track.

Size of the room

A 10-by-12-foot room will cost between $200 and $800 to paint. The size of the space and the room is the most crucial aspect in determining the total cost of the goods. How much space can a gallon of paint? Although one gallon of paint covers roughly 400 square feet, you might want to have the room dimensions available when you call professional painters to get precise quotations. Every room should have two coats of paint applied.

Room type

As room type varies, so does the cost of painting the different areas. For instance, a room with a bathroom will have added cost because of the bathroom. Here is a breakdown:

Bedroom

If you want to paint your bedroom, it will cost you between $300 and $750 for a typical 10-by-12-foot space. If you paint a darker wall in this size space, you will generally need 2 gallons of paint and a primer.

Bathroom

Typically, bathrooms cost $150 to $350. Tubs, cabinets, and showers limit the space painted in bathrooms. The expense of painting a larger master bathroom will increase.

Living room

For a typical 330-square-foot space, painting a living room can cost anywhere from $900 and $2,000 in total. The overall cost will increase if there are high ceilings or if you add an accent wall with a different paint color.

Kitchen

Due to the cabinetry, kitchens typically cost up to 50% less than other rooms. Kitchen cabinet painting costs typically range from $30 to $60 per linear foot or nearly $1,000.

Basement

It’s crucial to remember that your basement will experience more wetness and the risk of water damage than any other room in your house when painting. You should pick a paint that is robust and water-resistant for this reason. A basement, roughly 1,000 square feet, can be painted for between $2,550 and $6,000 on average.

 Wall height

Since higher walls increase the paintable area, walls taller than 10 feet can dramatically raise the cost per square foot. The price to paint a space will increase as the square footage increases.

 Trim, baseboards, and ceilings

An interior paint job for a home typically costs between $2 and $6 per square foot, with an average of $3.30. The price of painting a space increase when the woodwork and ceilings are painted.

Geographic location

Various parts of the nation have different prices for painters. Expect to pay more money in places with a greater cost of living. Finding local painters and comparing prices is the best method to learn how much a professional would charge.

Paint type

A gallon of paint might cost anywhere from $20 to $100, but remember that a professional can purchase paint for as much as 50% less than a homeowner—the average cost of home painting costs between $1,000 and $11,000. Prices will change depending on the paint, primer, and gloss level you select.

Paint choice and color

The typical home requires about 6 gallons of paint per coat. If you select a more expensive paint, the cost difference could increase dramatically after two applications. Additionally, it will cost more if you decide to paint each room a different color. It will be less expensive to paint several rooms the same color.

Paint gloss or finish

Prices for different gloss levels vary. The price will increase as the paint becomes glossier. Color comes in a few standard finishes, although actual prices vary between brands:

Flat or matte: This paint works well in spaces with low humidity levels. Although it doesn’t reflect light, dull or matte paint is more difficult to keep clean than other finishes.

Eggshell or satin: The eggshell or satin paint is appropriate for all spaces. Many people choose it for children’s rooms because it is simple to keep clean.

Semi-gloss: This type of paint looks great in bathrooms and kitchens, is stain-resistant, and is simple to clean.

High-gloss: Doors and cabinets are frequently painted with high-gloss paint. It is very enduring and simple to clean.

Primer

A can of primer can cost between $10 and $20. Some wall painting projects call for a primer, especially if you switch from a dark wall color to a brighter one. For long-lasting paint color, primer aids in paint adhesion. Some companies provide an all-in-one “primer plus paint.” These are suggested for touch-ups and tiny areas.

 

How much does it cost to paint a room by type of paint?

The choice of paint type is crucial in determining the effectiveness and durability of the paint on your walls. It also affects the overall cost of the painting project. Here are two common types of paint and their characteristics:

Oil-based paint

Oil-based paint takes longer to dry but offers more resilience than latex paint. It provides better coverage with just one coat and is easy to apply. Oil-based paint has excellent adhesion and stain resistance, making it suitable for walls, woodwork, trim, doors, and windows. However, it is not UV-resistant and may fade or chalk when exposed to direct sunlight. Proper disposal techniques and the use of mineral spirits are required for cleanup.

Latex-based paint

Latex-based paint offers a durable finish and retains its gloss over time. It is easy to use, dries quickly, and does not chalk or fade when exposed to sunlight. Latex paint emits fewer fumes than oil-based paint and can be cleaned with soap and water. However, it may have difficulty adhering to surfaces previously painted with oil-based paint. Latex paint can also absorb wood surfaces, causing the wood to swell and requiring sanding between layers.

Considering the keywords you provided, it is essential to note that the paint cost can vary depending on the type and brand. You can expect to pay between $15 and $60 per gallon of paint. Other factors like the size of the room, square footage, and the number of coats required will also impact the total cost of the painting project.

It’s always good to consult professional painters or painting companies for more accurate cost estimates and advice on paint selection, especially for larger or more complex interior painting projects.

Price to paint a room by type of finish

 

The price to paint a room can vary depending on several factors, including the type of finish you choose. The finish you use for your interior paint job impacts the overall look of the room and the longevity of the paint.

 The following are general cost projections for professional painting services based on American market averages. Remember that costs can change depending on the location, the size of the accommodation, and other unique factors:

Flat or matte finish: Flat or matte finish paint is the least expensive option. Including labor and supplies, the price per square foot falls typically between $1 and $3. This kind of finish is frequently applied to ceilings and other low-traffic areas.

 Eggshell finish: Compared to flat paint, the eggshell finish has a slight gloss and is more durable. Including labor and supplies, the price per square foot typically ranges between $1.50 and $4. Living rooms, dining rooms, and corridors are all excellent candidates for this finish.

Satin finish: A satin finish appears silky and smooth. Compared to flat or eggshell finishes, it is cleaner and more resilient. Including labor and materials, satin finish paint typically costs between $2 and $5 per square foot. In high-traffic areas, restrooms, and kitchens, it is frequently employed.

Semi-gloss finish: A surface with a semi-gloss finish is glossy and reflecting. It is pretty enduring, moisture-resistant, and simple to clean. In general, labor and material costs for semi-gloss finish paint range from $2.50 to $6 per square foot. It is frequently used for cabinets, doors, and trim.

High-gloss finish: The maximum sheen and light reflection are provided by high-gloss finishes. It gives off a polished appearance. Including labor and materials, high-gloss finish paint typically costs $3 to $8 per square foot. Furniture, accent pieces, or decorative components frequently employ it.

Average price to paint a room by type of primer

Use a primer frequently before your painters apply the initial coat of paint. The surface is shielded by primers, which also facilitate paint adhesion. Both latex- and oil-based paints can be used over oil-based primers. They are perfect for wood, steel, and other metal surfaces. Because they are so flexible and quick to cure, latex-based primers are excellent for drywall, softwood, brick, and concrete.

For wood surfaces, shellac primers are a fantastic option. They are effective on smoke and water-damaged walls. Depending on your chosen primer, you might anticipate paying between $16 and $70 per gallon.

Labor cost to paint a room

Hiring a professional painter is often the best choice to ensure a painting job is done correctly. The project’s duration depends on the space’s size and layout, typically taking two to four days to prepare, prime, and paint an entire room. The cost of the job is also influenced by factors such as the size, shape, and design of the ceiling.

Painting cathedrals and vaulted ceilings can take longer and involve more complexity. Similarly, the speed of painting walls depends on their texture. These elements and your location and local contractor prices affect the overall expenses. There are several ways to estimate the cost of professional interior painting.

In the United States, painters often charge between $25 and $100 per hour or between $1.50 and $3.50 per square foot. Other surfaces like baseboards and trim may cost around $3 to $4 per square foot.

How to measure a room for painting

You can estimate the paint you need for a room in the following way:

Typically, one gallon of high-quality paint covers 400 square feet (one coat). You should apply two coats and use two gallons of paint for best results.

 If you’re painting the ceiling, you may determine the area of the top by multiplying the room’s width by its length: 12′ x 12′ = 144 sq. ft. Around half a gallon of paint is needed for this.

What to do before painting a room

The area must be thoroughly prepared before painting to achieve a smooth and successful painting process. The actions to do before painting a room are as follows:

Clean Up the Area

Take out all the furniture, accessories, and other things. Cover any remaining furniture or fixtures with drop cloths or plastic sheets to shield them from paint splatters.

Sanitize the walls

Clean the walls well to remove any grime, lint, or grease hindering paint application. Use a water solution, TSP (trisodium phosphate) cleanser, or a mild detergent to wash the walls. Clean them off with water, then let them air dry fully.

Fix wall defects

Check the walls for dents, holes, or fractures. To cover up these flaws, use a spackling compound or another filler. Use a putty knife to smooth the filler after applying it, then wait for it to dry. When the patches are dry, sand them to a smooth finish so they mix in with the rest of the wall.

Old paint and wallpaper removal

Old paint or wallpaper should be removed if necessary. Make the necessary preparations to remove any outdated paint or wallpaper. This can entail using a steamer, a scraper, or a paint remover. When using chemical strippers, observe safety measures and the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Gather painting supplies

Paintbrushes, rollers, roller covers, paint trays, paint cans, and stir sticks are just a few of the tools you’ll need for painting. Make sure you have extra plastic or drop cloths to cover the floor.

Test paint colors

Testing your selected paint colors on a tiny portion of the wall before painting the whole room is a good idea. By doing this, you’ll be able to observe the color of the lighting in the space and make any necessary adjustments. 

Cost to paint a room: How to paint a room yourself

If you’re hiring professional painters, this also means more paint but more labor costs. If you plan on painting your room yourself, consider the following measures if you decide to handle a painting project yourself.

Additional costs and considerations

There are typically different cost aspects and considerations when setting a budget for the price of painting a room. Supplies, moving furniture, wall preparation, repairs, customization, adding accents or textures to the walls, lead or asbestos testing, and cleanup are all additional costs.

Paint supplies

Paint supplies can range from $10 to $100 or more, depending on what is required. Most professional painters bring most of their collections, although some may give you a discount if you get everything. A few stores will be helpful if you know how to paint and opt to paint the room yourself to save money.

Brushes: A brush ranges from $3 to $20. A quality brush can significantly improve a painting project. While beaver-tail-handled brushes help paint extensive areas, trim, and sash brushes are better for intricate work and smaller sizes.

Ladder: You’ll need a ladder to get to those high places. Avoid using a chair!

Painting kits: Each can cost between $10 and $20. These kits, which come with trays, brushes, and roller heads, are a cost-effective way to purchase supplies.

Tape: Painter’s tape can cost between $3 and $10 per roll. Trim and ceilings are shielded from stray paint drops by painter’s tape.

Drop cloth: Paint will inevitably drip over the floor, even if you think you’re being careful. A drop cloth will shield furniture and flooring.

Paint trays: Paint trays range in price from $2 to $5 and let you use just the right amount of paint without opening the paint container and risking it drying out.

Paint rollers: Paint rollers often cost $10 to $100. Use a paint roller to quickly and easily cover a sizable area.

Moving Furniture

Moving furniture may incur an additional fee from some businesses. Moving the furniture on your own is a fantastic strategy to avoid paying the potential additional fee for moving it out of the room or into the middle of the space.

Preparation or repairs

The price to paint a room will increase if the area is prepared and any damage to the trim or cracks in the drywall is fixed. You might have to pay $1 to $5 per square foot for renovations and repairs. Painting a room is an excellent opportunity to update or fix any baseboard, molding, or trim problems.

Labor cost

Depending on how labor is estimated—by the square foot of covered area at $2 to $6 per square foot for labor and materials, or labor alone at roughly $1.50 to $4 per square foot—labor expenses can range from $170 to $680. Additionally, work can be billed by the square foot of floor space for $5 to $10, and some pros bill by the hour for up to $75 per hour. The majority of experts state by the area rather than the hour.

Time of year

The project’s cost might be substantially impacted by the time of year you select to paint a room. The price of painting a room can be reduced by choosing a time in the fall and winter. Due to fewer exterior painting projects, painting contractors are often busier from November to February. As a result, interior painting pricing quotes become more competitive.

Cleanup

The fact that the cleanup is included in the price when hiring a painting professional is a significant benefit. During the painting process, a professional will ensure your home is kept as spotless as possible. Unless otherwise specified, the painting specialist will tidy up and remove any waste and debris after finishing the painting. The price may increase by an additional $20 to $50 per ton for disposal in a landfill.

Installations or upgrades

Trim, baseboards, and molding can typically be repaired or replaced by experts for a reasonable price, and some may combine the cost of repairs and painting the room. The cost of drywall restoration can range from $250 to $800, and the average price of putting trim is between $600 and $1,900. The cost of installing new windows might be anything between $2,500 and $8,000.

Customizations, textures, and accents

Accent walls may cost up to 20% or 30% more than other types of walls. The price difference is due to the change in paint color. Additionally, textured walls might cost up to 50% more money. If a gallon of paint is supposed to cover 400 square feet of smooth wall, you might only cover 250 square feet of textured wall.

Lead or asbestos testing

There could be asbestos or lead paint residue in older homes. A qualified lead testing and removal contractor must be consulted for paint testing and removal. An inspection typically costs between $100 and $190. Only a professional should remove asbestos, often costing between $65 and $240 per room.

Bottom line

The bottom line cost to paint a room can vary significantly depending on the factors mentioned earlier. However, as a rough estimate, you can expect to pay anywhere from $300 to $800 for a standard-sized room with essential preparation and one coat of paint.

Remember that this is a general estimate, and the actual cost may be higher or lower based on the specific details of your project and the rates in your area. Obtaining quotes from professional painters or contractors is best for a more accurate assessment.

We understand that part of what adds to the glow of our everyday living is the ambiance of the comfort of our home. We can make that possible for you. Contact us today for the best result.