You know what they say about a fresh coat of paint — it can do wonders!
New interior paint can update the look of your home, increase its value, and provide enjoyment for years. It’s also an easy and comparatively inexpensive upgrade that can be done in a matter of days.
But what is the interior painting cost in 2018? The cost to paint your walls can range anywhere from $1.50 to $4 per square foot, based on a variety of factors.
Keep reading to learn more about the cost to paint the interior rooms of a house.
Start by Measuring Your Rooms
The cost of painting an interior space is calculated by the size of the room. To get a rough number, you’ll need to start by determining the square footage of wall area that you’ll paint.
There are a few ways to do this, but below is the simplest (there are also great online calculators that can help you estimate the square footage of your room).
1) Start by measuring the perimeter of the room. Say you have a rectangular room that measures 20 feet by 24 feet. You’d calculate the perimeter by adding 20 + 24 + 20 + 24. That will give you the number 88, meaning the perimeter of your room is 88 feet.
2) Then, you’ll measure the distance from floor to ceiling. Let’s say the ceiling height is 8 feet. Multiply the perimeter from step one by the ceiling height (88 ft. x 8 ft.). That gives us 704 feet, which is the total area to be painted.
Remember to consider that not every inch of the walls will be painted. Any windows in the room won’t need paint, and you might not be painting doors, trim, cabinets, or built-ins.
Other Factors that Can Influence Interior Painting Cost
Square footage isn’t the only factor determining the cost of interior painting.
One important consideration is paint quality. The cost of a gallon of paint can vary considerably based on the brand and quality. When getting a quote for painting, spring for the best paint you can afford.
Higher end paints may cost more per gallon, but they may also require fewer coats and last longer.
Speaking of fewer coats, another cost consideration is labor.
If your current wall color is very bright or very dark, your walls may need additional coats of primer and paint, which takes more time. The same goes for the painting of accent walls or detailed trim.
Do you have wallpaper that needs removal? If the home is furnished, will you or the painting crew move the furnishings and decor? Will you need the ceilings painted? Are your walls flat or textured?
It may seem like a lot to consider, but these are all important points to keep in mind when preparing to get an estimate.
Getting a Professional Estimate
If you are looking for an easy, affordable way to update your home, it makes sense to consider new interior paint. However, given that there are so many variables, it’s best to call a professional painter for the most accurate estimate on interior painting cost.
For a custom cost estimate, contact us.
