As a reputable and top-rated Sydney painter for 10+ years, this is one of the most common questions I get asked. Painting the exterior of your home can seem daunting, especially when calculating the cost. With careful planning and research, you can get an accurate estimate and understand exactly what goes into painting a brick house.
Factors That Affect the Cost
Several key factors will determine the total cost to paint the exterior brickwork of your house:
Size of the House
The larger the surface area that needs to be painted, the more paint and labour will be required. A two-story brick house will cost more than a small single-level home.
Type of Brick
Paint adheres differently to bricks depending on their texture and porosity. Smooth bricks require less preparation work than more textured bricks, and older porous bricks may require sealing before painting.
Number of Coats
Two to three coats of paint are usually needed for proper coverage on exterior brickwork. The more coats required, the higher the cost.
Scaffolding
Scaffolding or other equipment is necessary to safely access second stories and higher areas. Rental and installation costs can add up.
Preparation Work
Proper pressure washing, repairs, sealing, caulking and priming are key to a long-lasting paint job. However, this prep work also takes time and drives costs up.
Paint Quality
Premium exterior grade paints formulated for masonry last longer and provide better protection. Cheaper paints require more frequent repainting.
Cost Breakdown
Now let’s break down the typical costs for painting a two-story brick house in Sydney:
Materials
- Exterior paint for masonry: $300-$800
- Primer: $100-$300
- Caulk, supplies: $50-$150
Quality paint makes a big difference in longevity! I recommend Dulux or Taubmans for exterior brick.
Labour
- Prep work (power wash, scrape, sand, seal, caulk): $1000-$2000
- Painting labor for 2-story house: $2000-$4000
- Scaffolding rental and installation: $500-$1000
Labor takes considerable time and costs, but it is important to get right! Always use experienced professionals.
Number of Coats
- 1 coat of primer + 2 coats of paint: $1500-$3000
- 3 coats of paint (no separate primer): $2000-$4000
Two to three coats are ideal for proper coverage and protection.
Average Total Costs
Based on these factors, a typical 2-story brick house in Sydney can expect to pay $4000-$8000 for professional exterior painting. This range allows for mid- to high-end paint and prep work.
As you can see, numerous variables affect the final price. For an exact quote tailored to your home, I recommend contacting qualified local painters.
Value of Pro Painters
While DIY painting may seem like a way to save, I always recommend hiring professional painters for exterior brickwork. Pro painters have the expertise, tools and equipment to do the job right. Benefits include:
- Correct preparation – Ensures paint adheres and lasts
- Efficiency – Get the job done faster and cheaper than DIY
- Safety – No need to risk injury with tall ladders and scaffolding
- Quality results – Even coverage and clean painting lines
- Warranties – Professional painters offer workmanship warranties
Take the time to get written quotes from a few reputable local painting companies. Compare their prices, experiences, warranties and reviews. This helps ensure you find the best value painter for your specific home.
Maintaining Your Painted Brick Home
Once professionals properly prepped and painted your brick house, you can expect the results to last 5-7 years with proper maintenance. Follow these tips:
- Inspect exterior paint yearly for any needed touch-ups
- Clean painted surfaces with mild soap and water
- Reapply caulk and paint any cracked or peeled areas promptly
- Consider getting home power washed every 2-3 years
- Plan on repainting after 5-7 years for continued protection
Following a regular maintenance routine keeps your painted brick looking fresh and minimizes the need for major repairs or repainting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of paint should be used on exterior brick?
I recommend premium acrylic latex paint formulated for masonry and exterior use, such as Dulux or Taubmans masonry paints. Avoid cheap paints that won’t adhere well or last.
Should brick be sealed before painting?
Applying a masonry sealer helps the paint adhere evenly to very porous or older brick. Consult with painters on whether sealer is recommended for your home’s brickwork.
How long does it take to paint a house exterior?
For a two-story house, expect 2-5 days from start to finish. The exact timeframe depends on size, prep work needed, the number of coats, and the drying time required between coats.
Should windows be removed before exterior painting?
Removing windows and doors is not usually necessary for exterior painting. Masking and covering provide sufficient protection. However, removal and reinstallation do add time and costs.
Can exterior brick be painted in winter?
It’s best to avoid exterior painting in very cold, damp, or humid conditions. Consult professional painters on ideal weather conditions for your project.
Free Quote from Local Painters
If you’re looking to get your Sydney brick house painted, I encourage you to request a no-obligation quote from our team of professional painters serving across Sydney. With over 10 years of painting experience, we can provide an accurate estimate and advice for your home. Get in touch today to schedule your free quote!
