A double-storey exterior costs more to paint than a single-storey house of the same footprint, mainly because of access, safety and extra time at height. We don’t publish price lists, because every house is different, but here’s exactly what makes the difference so you can compare quotes properly.
1. Access and equipment
A single-storey house can usually be painted from the ground or a low platform. A second storey means working at height, which calls for scaffold, an elevated platform or rope access depending on the house and site. That equipment has to be set up, moved and removed, and all of that takes time.
2. Safety requirements
Work at height needs more planning and more controls. That includes a safe work method statement, the right equipment and trained people. Cutting corners here isn’t an option, and it’s not something a good quote will skimp on. Our guide to the paperwork a painter should show you lists what to ask.
3. Surface area
A double-storey home has more wall area than a single-storey one, plus more windows, trims, eaves and gutters to prepare and paint. More area means more preparation, more materials and more time.
4. Preparation at height
Washing, scraping, filling and priming all take longer when they’re done from scaffold or a platform. Upper walls, eaves and gutters also tend to have taken more sun and weather, so they may need more attention.
5. Site conditions
Slopes, garden beds, pools, narrow side access and neighbouring buildings all affect how equipment can be set up. A tight site can add as much complexity as an extra storey.
How to compare quotes
Ask each painter to spell out the access method, the preparation, the coatings and the areas included. Two quotes for the same double-storey house can look very different if one assumes scaffold and the other doesn’t. Our article on questions to ask before hiring painting contractors helps you get like-for-like quotes.
Larger buildings
The same principles apply to apartments and commercial buildings, only bigger. See our post on abseiling versus scaffolding for how access is chosen.
Ask for a proper quote
The only way to know what your house will involve is to have someone look at it. See our exterior house painting service and request a quote.
McAuliffe Painting. Eagle Farm, Brisbane QLD 4009. QBCC Lic 1180874.
