How much does it cost to paint the exterior of a house? In Littleton, CO, the number is shaped by your home’s size, height, surface material, prep work, and paint system.
Most homes land between $3,500 and $12,000. Smaller one-story homes with light prep sit at the low end. Larger two-story homes with brick or stucco, detailed trim, and repair needs can push higher.
Let’s walk through the real drivers of price so you can budget with confidence and ask better questions when you get quotes.
Key Takeaways:
- The average cost to paint the exterior of a house ranges from $3,500–$12,000, depending on your home’s size and material.
- Prep work like cleaning, sanding, and caulking affects both cost and how long the paint lasts.
- Surfaces such as brick, stucco, or wood require different paints and application methods.
- Using low-VOC paints offers healthier, longer-lasting finishes ideal for Colorado weather.
The Real Cost Range For Littleton Homes
Every house is different, but here’s what most local projects look like:
| Home Size | Typical Stories | Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1,200 sq ft | 1 | $3,300 – $6,000 | Small homes with light prep work |
| 1,800 sq ft | 1–2 | $4,800 – $8,500 | Average-sized homes with moderate trim |
| 2,400 sq ft | 2 | $6,000 – $10,500 | Two-story homes or color changes |
| 3,000+ sq ft | 2–3 | $8,500 – $15,000+ | Larger or custom homes with complex details |
*These are national averages adjusted for Littleton labor rates. Actual pricing may differ due to accessibility, paint system, or repair needs. For an exact quote, reach out to professional exterior painters in your area.
Factors That Shape The Cost
1. Size, Height, And Accessibility
The larger or taller your home, the more labor, ladders, and safety setup required. A one-story ranch might take a few days, while a steep two-story home with multiple gables can double the work hours. Areas above 19 feet often add 20–30% to total labor because of scaffolding and safety equipment.
2. Siding Material And Texture
The surface you’re painting plays a big role in how much paint and prep time is needed.
| Material Type | Average Cost / Sq Ft | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Vinyl / Aluminum | $1.50 – $3.00 | Smooth and easy to paint |
| Wood / Cedar | $2.00 – $3.75 | Needs sanding and sealing |
| Fiber Cement | $2.25 – $4.00 | Durable but absorbs more paint |
| Stucco | $2.50 – $4.50 | Porous; requires special coating |
| Brick | $3.00 – $5.00 | Needs primer and breathable paint |
If your home has a mix (for example, wood trim with brick or stucco), pricing reflects the most time-consuming surface. For guidance on choosing the right coating for each material, our article on exterior paint types breaks down which formulas perform best for Colorado homes.
3. Prep Work And Surface Condition
Preparation can make or break your exterior paint project. Cleaning, caulking, sanding, and patching all ensure the new paint bonds properly.
If you have peeling or flaking paint, those layers must be removed and smoothed before any primer or finish goes on. This process, often called scraping old paint, prevents early peeling and gives a smooth, even finish. It’s the part of the project most homeowners underestimate, but pros know it’s what separates a five-year job from a ten-year one.
4. Paint Quality, Finish, And Color
Not all paints perform the same. High-end acrylic or elastomeric coatings cost more upfront but last longer and handle Colorado’s strong UV rays better.
If you’re repainting the same color, you’ll save on materials and labor. But if you’re switching from a dark tone to a lighter one, you might need an extra coat or a tinted primer to cover the old color completely.
For a smoother decision process, try using paint color visualizer to preview combinations before finalizing your palette.
5. Environmental And Health Considerations
Many homeowners in Littleton are choosing low-VOC paints for healthier air quality inside and out. These modern coatings emit fewer chemicals while still offering great adhesion and coverage. While the initial cost is slightly higher, they’re worth it for anyone sensitive to odors or chemicals and they help reduce environmental impact.
6. Trim, Doors, And Details
Flat walls are fast; details are slow. Trim, fascia, soffits, shutters, and doors require small-brush precision and more ladder work. These extras usually add $2 – $3 per linear foot for trim and $150 – $500 for doors depending on color and finish.
7. Climate And Timing
Littleton’s climate isn’t easy on paint. Between bright sun, snow, and temperature swings, coatings need to expand and contract without cracking. That’s why many pros apply thicker coats or premium formulations that handle UV exposure and freeze-thaw cycles.
Scheduling also matters. Most painters book up in spring and early summer, which can nudge prices up slightly during high-demand months.
8. Repairs And Unexpected Fixes
If the crew finds rotten wood, cracked stucco, or open joints while prepping, those repairs need attention before painting. Wood or siding repairs typically add $2 – $5 per sq ft, depending on severity. Catching and fixing these problems early helps prevent bigger damage later.
Estimated Cost Summary
| Project Type | Average Range | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Repaint (1-story, vinyl) | $3,500 – $6,000 | Light prep, same color |
| Mid-Size Home (2-story, wood) | $6,000 – $9,500 | Moderate trim and color change |
| Large Home (stucco or brick) | $9,000 – $15,000+ | Full prep and premium paint |
These figures are based on current 2025 averages for the Littleton area. Always confirm with your painter, since factors like color shifts, repairs, or access can change the total.
Why Investing In Quality Paint Pays Off
A professional paint job is both cosmetic and protective. Colorado’s sun and snow are tough on surfaces, and a poor-quality coating can crack or fade within a few years. Investing in better materials and a well-executed prep process adds life to your siding and keeps your home looking sharp for years longer.
A good exterior repaint should last 6–10 years, depending on exposure and maintenance. Keeping your gutters clean, trimming trees, and washing dirt off occasionally will help extend that lifespan even further.
Final Thoughts And Call To Action
When you break it down, how much does it cost to paint the exterior of a house in Littleton, CO, depends on the size of your home, surface type, amount of prep, and quality of paint you choose. A realistic range of $3,500 to $12,000+ covers most local homes but remember, your house’s condition and material will dictate where you land in that range.
Here’s what sets Mountain West Painting apart:
- Detailed inspection before any work begins
- High-quality primers and finishes designed for Colorado weather
- Thorough surface prep and repairs before painting
- Professional trim and detail work for clean lines
- Clear communication from start to finish
Mountain West Painting proudly serves Littleton, Roxborough Park, Morrison, Arvada, CO, and nearby communities.
Call us at 720-520-5505 for your FREE estimate today and let our team bring new life to your home’s exterior.
