Painting Your Walls? Here’s the Cost in 2024

They say a fresh coat of paint can change almost everything—and who are we to argue with that? After all, painting can completely change the feel of your home, whether you’re moving into a new place or just tired of the same old beige.

Take it as a facelift for your walls but without the surgery!

But before you get too excited about picking the perfect shade of ‘sunset orange’ (which sounds way better than ‘slightly tangerine’), it’s time to chat about costs. Trust us, those beautiful colours come with a price.

So, if you’re curious about how much it’ll cost to give your walls that refreshing touch in 2024, you’ve come to the right place. Grab your paint chips and let’s paint a clear picture of your budget!

What Does Painting Cost Per Square Foot in 2024?

The cost of painting isn’t just about the paint. You’ve got labour, prep work, putty, primer, and possibly some unexpected expenses (we’re looking at you, crumbling wall corners and stains).

But first, let’s get a quick look at the paint costs themselves.

So, whether you’re aiming for the budget-friendly option with distemper or aiming for a more stylish texture finish, you’ve got plenty of choices.

Now, let’s look closer at where the rest of your cash is going.

Additional Costs: The Hidden Players

There’s more to a paint job than what meets the eye—or the walls, in this case. You’ve to think about the costs for putty, primer, and of course, the labour—unless you’re planning to unleash your inner Picasso and tackle it all yourself (good luck with that!).

• Putty

This stuff smooths out imperfections on your walls, making sure the paint goes on like a dream. A kilogram of putty will cost you about ₹50 and cover around 15-35 square feet. It’s a small price to pay to avoid that bumpy “not-so-rustic” look, right?

• Primer

Primer is your paint’s best buddy. It helps the paint stick to the wall better and gives you that smooth finish. Prices range from ₹140-₹200 per litre, with one litre covering 210-270 square feet. Without it, you might as well be painting on a sponge.

• Labour

Labour usually ends up being about 1.5 times the cost of materials. For example, if your paint and prep materials total ₹5,000, you can expect labour to be around ₹7,500.

Keep in mind that prices can vary based on where you live, with metro areas typically being more expensive than smaller towns.

Fresh Painting vs. Repainting: What’s the Difference?

• Fresh Painting: This involves the whole shebang—putty, primer, and 2-3 coats of paint. It’s more expensive and labour-intensive, ranging from ₹20 to ₹38 per square foot.

• Repainting: A bit easier on the wallet, repainting requires fewer coats (and less headache). It typically costs between ₹12 to ₹28 per square foot.

So, if you’re deciding between repainting those slightly worn walls or giving your home a whole new vibe with fresh paint, the price difference might help tip the scales.

Mixing Paints: Can You Do That?

Thinking about mixing some leftover paint cans to save a few bucks? Hold up.

Mixing different types of paints can lead to some seriously unpredictable results—kind of like putting pineapple on pizza (a gamble that might not end well).

• Stick to the Same Type and Brand: If you’re mixing, make sure they’re the same type of paint. Water-based paints don’t mix well with oil-based ones.

• Test It Out: Before slapping it all over your wall, test it on a small patch. You don’t want any surprises after it dries.

Choosing the Right Paint and Colour for Your Home

Picking paint colours isn’t just about going with your gut—there’s a bit of strategy involved too. Do you want warm, cozy vibes, or are you leaning towards bright and modern? Here are a few tips to help you narrow it down:

Match the Mood: Warm colours like yellows and reds can make a room feel cozy, while cooler colours like blues and greens bring a sense of calm.

Lighting Matters: Rooms with less natural light do well with lighter shades to keep things bright.

Samples, Samples, Samples: Always test your colours with a sample before committing paint can look completely different once it’s up on your wall.

Interior vs. Exterior Painting: The Showdown

When it comes to painting the inside of your home vs. the outside, the costs and considerations vary.

• Interior Painting: This is all about style and maintenance. Interior paint is designed to be stain-resistant, moisture-proof, and easy to clean.

It ranges from ₹12 to ₹60 per square foot, depending on the paint and finish.

• Exterior Painting: Here, durability is key. Exterior paint needs to withstand the elements—rain, sun, dust, and all.

It’s slightly cheaper at ₹13-₹40 per square foot, but it requires more prep work like sanding and priming, especially if you’re dealing with cracks or weather damage.

Before You Start: Prep Like a Pro

Painting might seem straightforward, but there are a few things you should do before the roller hits the wall:

Inspect the Walls: Fix any cracks or peeling paint before you start.

Clean the Walls: Dirt and dust can mess with the finish, so give them a quick wipe-down.

Move the Furniture: Or at least cover it. Unless, of course, you want a new “abstract” look for your couch.

Prep Your Tools: Make sure you’ve got everything—brushes, rollers, ladders, tape. You don’t want to be halfway up the ladder only to realize you forgot the paint stirrer.

Saving Money While Painting: Yes, It’s Possible!

Here’s the good news: you don’t have to break the bank to get your home looking like a million bucks. Here’s how you can save on costs:

• Focus on Paint Quality

While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, investing in good-quality paint will save you money in the long run. It covers better, lasts longer, and often requires fewer coats.

• Calculate Your Needs

Use online tools or consult with a pro to calculate exactly how much paint you’ll need. Overbuying is a waste while running out mid-project? That’s just annoying.

• Factor in All Requirements

Don’t forget about primer, putty, and labour. These hidden costs can add up quickly, so be sure to budget for them.

• Reconsider Primer

Using self-priming paints can help you skip the primer altogether. If you’re repainting in a similar colour, you might not even need it.

Colour Your Home, Without Painting Your Wallet Red

And there you have it—the complete lowdown on painting your home without making your wallet cry.

Whether you’re going for a full transformation or just a quick refresh, understanding the costs can save you from any surprises (like realizing halfway through that premium paint costs more than a gourmet dinner!).

Now that you’re armed with all the info, it’s time to pick your colours, roll up your sleeves, and turn those walls into the masterpiece they deserve to be. Happy painting and may your budget stay as smooth as your walls!

And, if you are looking to buy a home before painting, you are in the right place. Contact us today!