If you’re a homeowner in Northeast Ohio, you know that your home’s exterior takes a beating from the elements—icy winters, humid summers, and everything in between. That’s why a professional exterior paint job is more than just a cosmetic upgrade—it’s a vital line of defense that helps preserve your home’s structure and value.
But how much should you expect to pay? When is the best time to schedule exterior painting in NE Ohio? And what are the most common mistakes homeowners make?
In this guide, Best Buy Painting breaks down everything you need to know before tackling an exterior painting project.
The True Cost of an Exterior Paint Job
When it comes to pricing, many homeowners are surprised to learn just how many factors contribute to the final cost. Let’s break down the three major components: labor, materials, and preparation.
Labor
Labor typically accounts for 60% to 70% of the total project cost. Exterior painting is labor-intensive work that requires skilled technicians who know how to properly prep surfaces, repair damage, and apply coatings that last.
Factors that influence labor costs include:
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Size and height of the home
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Number of stories
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Surface condition (e.g., peeling paint, rotted wood)
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Difficulty of access (steep slopes, landscaping obstacles)
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Number of colors used
Paint and Materials
High-quality exterior paints, primers, caulking, and tools make up the next largest chunk of your budget.
Average costs:
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Paint (per gallon): $40–$75
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Primer: $20–$50 per gallon
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Caulking and sealants: $3–$10 per tube
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Miscellaneous supplies: tarps, brushes, rollers, ladders, etc.
For a typical 2,000-square-foot home, you may need 15–25 gallons of paint. Material costs usually fall between $500 and $1,000.
Surface Prep
Proper surface preparation is the foundation of a long-lasting paint job—and it’s often the most underestimated cost.
Prep work includes:
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Power washing
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Scraping and sanding loose paint
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Caulking and sealing gaps
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Repairing damaged wood or siding
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Priming bare surfaces
Prep work can add 20–40% to your total cost, but it’s essential for durability.
Common Pitfalls in Exterior Painting Projects
Even if you hire a reputable contractor, there are a few key mistakes homeowners make that can derail a project or lead to unsatisfactory results.
Ignoring the Weather Window
In NE Ohio, the painting season is limited. Temperature and humidity levels must be just right for the paint to cure properly.
Avoid painting when:
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Temperatures drop below 45°F
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Rain is expected within 24 hours
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Humidity exceeds 85%
Best Buy Tip: For wood-sided homes, aim for mid-to-late spring and early fall.
Underestimating Prep Work
Skipping proper prep leads to peeling, cracking, and premature failure.
Key signs prep work is needed:
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Chalky residue on old paint
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Mildew or mold growth
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Gaps around windows or trim
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Flaking or blistering paint
Going with the Cheapest Bid
Cheaper isn’t always better. Low bids often mean subpar materials or skipped prep steps, which can shorten the life of your paint job.
Perfect Timing: When to Schedule Exterior Painting in Northeast Ohio
Timing is everything when it comes to scheduling your project.
Optimal Months: May through October
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Late May to June: Ideal temperatures, minimal rain
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July & August: Great but watch humidity
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September–Early October: Stable, cooler, perfect for painting
Avoid: April (too cold) and November onward (too risky for curing).
Best Buy Tip: Book your estimate in late winter (February or March) to secure your spot before the season fills up.
Bonus: Tips for a Smooth Exterior Paint Project
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Communicate Expectations Clearly: Discuss colors, prep scope, and timelines.
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Move Obstructions: Clear furniture, grills, and shrubs.
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Ask About Warranties: Reputable painters back their work.
Why Choose Best Buy Painting?
We’ve been painting homes across Northeast Ohio for over 20 years. Our skilled crews know the climate, pitfalls, and timing for flawless, long-lasting finishes.
When you hire Best Buy Painting, you get:
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Transparent, upfront pricing
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High-quality paints for each substrate
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Thorough prep and expert application
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Local knowledge of NE Ohio’s weather windows
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Friendly, reliable service
