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External wall painting contractors – Rated People

Looking for a quick and affordable way of refreshing your house’s exterior?  A fresh coat of paint can work wonders in revitalising your house’s appearance, improving curb appeal and adding value to your home.

Whilst painting may seem like a DIY task, exterior walls can be tricky. Not only is it difficult to do a thorough job without the use of scaffolding, the walls will also need a lot of expert preparation to achieve a neat and long-lasting finish.   

External painting is best undertaken during the summer months so that paint can dry quicker and to avoid moisture penetrating the walls.

Which paint is suitable for my property?

Exterior wall paint doesn’t come in one size to fit all. The type of paint suitable for your property will depend on the age of your house, wall surface type, and whether it’s been painted before.

Houses with cavity walls

Newer houses built after 1920 usually have cavity walls. Cavity walls can be painted with standard water-based masonry paint, mineral-based paint or eco paint.

Standard water-based paints are the most affordable option and are suitable for houses with walls that are in good, dry condition. Mineral-based paints are more expensive but contain a binder that creates a long-lasting finish. Eco paints are best for the environment and have very low or zero volume of volatile organic compounds.

Good quality paint should be weatherproof and contain a fungicide to prevent the growth of algae, moss and mould.

Houses with solid walls

Older properties built pre-1920s often have solid walls which should only be painted with a high quality breathable paint like Dulux Weathershield or Sandtex to prevent damp getting trapped in the walls.

If your house has lime rendered walls it’s advisable to stick with a breathable limewash only.

A professional painter and decorator will be able to guide you through which paint or finish is most suited to your property type.

Benefits of painting your house’s external walls

As well as the obvious aesthetic benefits, a new layer of paint will also help to protect your walls from the elements. This improves their longevity and reduces the need for repairs later down the line.

Will scaffolding be required? 

Painting the exterior of a house is a time-consuming job, and not one that should be attempted using a ladder only. If full scaffolding is required, it can significantly bump up the price of the job.  However, many painters and decorators now use lightweight access towers that can be set up very quickly, eliminating the need for scaffolding.

Ask your painter what access equipment they plan to use and whether they have included the cost of this in their quote.

What’s involved in the job?

Depending on the size of your property, the weather, and the condition of your walls, external wall painting usually takes 2 to 4 days to complete.

See below a brief outline of the steps your painter will take to complete your job.

  1. Set up access equipment.
  2. Remove flaking paint.
  3. Brush dirt off the walls.
  4. Wash dirt, mould, moss or algae from walls.
  5. Make any necessary repairs.
  6. Allow the walls to dry.
  7. Apply a stabilising primer.
  8. Apply first coat of paint and allow to dry.
  9. Apply second coat of paint and allow to dry.
  10. Apply any further coats necessary.
  11. Remove access equipment.

Cost of external wall painting

The average cost of having all external walls painted on a semi-detached house usually falls somewhere between £900 and £1500. 

The price will be dependent on factors including:

  • Size and type of property.
  • Condition of the walls/whether any repair work is needed.
  • Whether the price of scaffolding is included in the quote.
  • Number of coats required.
  • Type of paint being used.
  • Surface being painted (pebble dash is more expensive).
  • Your location.

The qualifications your tradesperson needs

Although no formal qualifications are required to be a painter and decorator, there are certificates and courses that can be taken that show a commitment to providing a high standard of service. These include the Painting and Decorating Diploma, levels 1 to 3 and short courses offered by product manufacturers.

Check with your tradesperson if they have any trade qualifications and whether they’re members of the Painting and Decorating Association (PDA).

Members of the PDA must stick to a code of practice that demonstrates commitment to professional, quality workmanship and fair practice.

Planning permission for external wall painting

There’s no need to apply for planning permission when painting the exterior of your house.  However, if you live in a listed building you’ll need to apply for listed building consent.

Insurance for external wall painters

It’s very important that your tradesperson has public liability insurance at minimum.  Although unlikely, if there were to be any accidental damage to your house whilst the work was being carried out, public liability insurance would pay for the damage.

Questions you should ask your external wall painter

  • Will full scaffolding be used and is this included in the quote?
  • Do they have any trade qualifications?
  • Are they members of the PDA?
  • Do they have public liability insurance?
  • What type and brand of paint will be used?
  • Is the work guaranteed and if so what are the terms of the guarantee?

My Name is Jamie I am the owner of a small family run business with Many years experience in the building industry I have built my company up on recommendations we are also fully insured and have full public liability insurance. we reach many dead lines and targets and we always go that extra mile to make sure our customers are happy with our services all our prices are affordable and our work is done to a. very high standard

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Reviewed by John on 3/9/2023

Great job. Lots of attention to detail. Transformed my room. Thanks Jay.

Dear customers, We have a small team that specialise in interior and exterior decoration and high end renovation for specific clients but welcome clients who needs help if on budget. We managed to complete dozen of bathrooms full refurbishment and designing, where we realized our expertise on others field enables to achieve with our team of plumber electricians high quality bathrooms renovation. We choose concepts and color scheme with help of initial clients thought. We always aim for level 5 finish meaning our prep are more intense. We specialise in spraying large projects but we also rolls and brush when needed. We use latest dust free Sanders etc When we start the job we do not need anything from clients but just assurance that he can let us do the work as we pleased. Our expertise is more with larger project due to the fact it can be easily sprayed aswell We only undertake renovation for client who wishes best outcome with a high end finish painting so end picture looks perfect. Thank you.

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Reviewed by Rahmel on 24/3/2024

The first day Jay and I met, I knew I wanted to work with him. He understood my vision, and also made me see things in a different perspective, as well as being honest. I had a smooth experience with the team who has transformed my first property into a place I'm delighted to call home. Jay is a perfectionist who takes pride in his work. He's precise, versatile as knowledgeable on how to future proof your property value. You would definitely be keeping in contact with Jay for future work if you hire him.

Hard working tradesman with 15 years experince

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Reviewed by Dafydd on 8/9/2023

Laurence and his friendly team have done a great top decorating my house at short notice and for a very reasonable fee. They talked me through everything and assured me that everything would be done to the highest quality, which it was. Laurence is a very good communicator and my house was left very tidy upon completion of the job. Would definitely use again and recommended.

At Jolly Handyman, we offer general handyman services, anterior and exterior painting and decorating, carpentry, door lock repairs, fence repairs, seasonal maintenances, decking and house painting at affordable prices. I’ve got years of experience and guarantee the quality of my workmanship. Whatever your project, I’m ready to help. Call me now to schedule an appointment or check us on our website. I will also answer any questions you may have about how I work and what to expect during your service appointment. Fully insured and CSCS certificated.

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Reviewed by sam on 21/4/2024

Great Guy bit of a Comedian but man does he work, starts early does a good job knows his stuff even did some extras for me of his own accord, did different types of jobs all to perfection, clean and tidy, i could not believe i finally found a tradesman i will actually use again, and did not have to keep checking up on his work, J did great work for me, i would RECOMEND him to anybody does a great job at a GOOD price CHEERS MATE see you again SAM.

I just thought that I need to update our profile as not been updated for 6years. Me and my team have been working hard to build up a great reputation,over the last 6 years. I am happy to say, we have been inundated with works from our previous clients from rated people.Me and my teams aim to give our customers 100% satisfaction on works we do .45 reviews I believe we are at about 98%. Positive feedback. We are always respectful of our clients homes and make sure we liaise with our clients at all times. Never a problem just solutions . Kind regards Mark First Class Decorating.

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Reviewed by yvonne on 27/3/2024

Mark responded very quickly to my add & was able to do the job the next day honest & reliable.. Mark did a good job painting fixing walls & odd jobs around my house reasonable pricing also.. would recommend ????

JLM Home Improvements are more than a building contractor. We are a family owned and operated company with high values and a great reputation. We take pride in having a "can do" attitude and in offering outstanding customer service & support. Large enough to provide a reliable and high value service, but small enough to give you the personal touch you deserve, our skills cover the entire building sector- everything from odd jobs as small as driveway repairs & gutter clearances to complete home renovations & full roof replacements looking after your home from top to bottom. We have a combined experience of over 95 years in the trade you can rest assured knowing *that* your project will be completed to the highest of standards with us.

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Reviewed by Georgie on 15/4/2024

Excellent job done to the required standard and took into account desired colour scheme and detail.

When it comes to finding reliable and experience team in cumbria, look no further with a number of years in these trades At MPM, we offer a comprehensive range of services to cater to all your roofing needs & maintenance. From new roof installations to repairs and maintenance, we've got you covered. Our flat roofing solutions are second to none, and our meticulous attention to detail ensures exceptional quality and long-lasting results. What sets us apart is our unwavering commitment to using only the highest quality materials. We believe that using superior materials is crucial in delivering the best possible results for our valued clients. Our maintenance-gutter and fascia installations not only enhance the appearance of your property but also minimise the need for regular upkeep.

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Reviewed by Robert on 28/3/2024

With over 30 years experience in the painting industry, all certificates, qualifications, insurance H&S & numberous references, Craig Horne's is the place to go for quality workmanship at prices to suit all budgets,. chas registered...consruction line,reg

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Reviewed by Richard on 18/4/2023

My name is Michael Devlin & my business HC Decor has been established for 4 years, and is based in Dunfermline I am a fully qualified time served tradesman with 35 years experience in all aspects of decoration both private & commercial

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Reviewed by Moira on 16/11/2023

A great guy very helpful

The Brush Brothers have over 15 years of experience and as a small but very experienced and capable team our priority is delighting our customers with our high quality professional and personal service. We cover all residential and commercial properties, both interior and exterior. We believe it is our job to make sure that your work is completed professionally to the highest standards, on time and at the right price. We offer free quotations. Some of our services include: Internal and External P&D Walls and Ceilings Painted Windows and Doors Painted Skirting and Radiators Gloss Painted Plaster Repairs Handymen Services General Repairs

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Reviewed by Stephen on 22/10/2023

Prompt, friendly, tidy, good finish. I'll be using them again.

MR STEPHEN JOTCE ,IS A FULLY QUALIFIED PAINTER AND DECORATORHAVING ACHIEVED THE CITY AND GUILDS ADVANCED LEVEL DURING HIS APPRENTICSHIP WITH CLARK AND FENN ONE OF LONDONS FINEST COMPANIES

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Reviewed by Martin on 19/10/2023

Steve attended on the agreed day on time and made a neat job including re-fiixing some external boxwork so very happy.

My name is Sean. I am a time served decorator. I undertake all aspects of decorating from wall papering to sash windows. I’m not V.A.T registered. Carpentry services also available. Qualified interior architect. Interior design service available. 30 years experience.

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Reviewed by Jonathan on 6/2/2023

Very good worker and excellent finish when painting (and filling) our damp porch and the front elevation of our house.

With over 7 years experience in painting and decorating, who pride themselves in a very high quality finish every time. We love what we do and guarantee you will be happy. Customer satisfaction is our top priority and the attention to detail is our main focus. We always leave the premises in a clean and tidy manner.Works offers a fast, efficient and effective service. No job too big or small. we know how to deliver work that looks good and lasts. We work on properties of all shapes and sizes, commercial and domestic, turning your dreams into a reality.

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Reviewed by Else on 11/2/2024

Maher did a fabulous job. Always on time, neat & tidy and with great attention to detail. Would definitely recommend - 10/10. And also gave us excellent advice thanks Maher

allworks undertaken on Roofing, Lead works. Facias and Soffits plus repointing stonework or brickwork and guttering we are 5 star rated with over 100 reviews on rated we have over 40 years experience .we do flat roofs to all propertiesplus strip and recover of all roofs .we also carry out joinery work to the roofs aswell as do the painting .

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Reviewed by Zoe on 10/2/2024

Paul was excellent at communicating with me throughout the work on the roof. He sent photos of the work and explained what was needed. His team did a excellent job and I would definitely recommend them.

Fully qualified Painter&Decorator with over 44yrs experience ,Quality workmanship to a very high standard ,and at very reasonable rates. All aspects of work from papering , Emulsion,to gloss work .

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Reviewed by Karl on 13/1/2024

Lovely guy, very professional and did a great job, would highly recommend.

Founded in 2018, we have over 30 years’ experience in the Painting & Decorating industry and are fully trained to provide you with an excellent standard of finish for your interior and exterior painting jobs. We provide the full range of painting services, including domestic,,residential,commercial and industrial properties and guarantee to provide the very highest standard of finish, every time. We work with our clients, helping you select the best materials for the job, ensuring you are always left with results you love! Based in Brentwood , our bespoke service of painting and decorating ,means you get the best service at the best price from a local team who know the area. We endeavour to create a reputation for a professional approach and excellent results which is why we always work hard to communicate well with our clients, leaving you with exactly what you have asked for! Whether you’re looking for a wallpaper finish for the lounge, specialised coating for the exterior, or domestic painting for your kitchen, we’ll complete your job fast and in a professional manner.

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Reviewed by Benjamin on 7/12/2023

I really enjoyed working with Neil and the team at J&N. They decorated our two bedroom flat in East London before we moved in to an excellent standard. Courteous, tidy, professional, great value for money. Finished on time in a tight timeframe including the changes we asked for. 100% recommend and will use them again in future.

Westcote heritage is a family run business with over 50 years combined experience and expertise in the painting, decorating and property maintenance field.

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Reviewed by David on 14/7/2023

Super job of external paining, including filling rotten wood where needed. Polite and helpful Clean and tidy.

We are a small family business. We have been dealing with home decoration and renovation for 32 years. In our work, we strive to give a really professional service within the shortest possible time. Our satisfied customers prove that we are reliable and provide a high-quality service

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Reviewed by Adrian on 12/3/2024

Excellent. Arrived on time every day, worked tidy and did a great job. I would highly recommend Joe.

we are a fast, honest, reliable company that provides quality work with many years of experience in a wide range of services. M.j.w.d solutions ltd (part of the m.j.w.d property maintenance group) based in lingfield is a family run and well established, experienced company that covers all aspects of the building and landscaping trades. We take pride in all the work we take on and believe in an honest/reliable cost effective solution that leaves all our clients happy and to recommend us to friends and family making most of incoming work loads from word of mouth clients. All employees are trained or hold the relevant qualifications and experience that is required for a particular job We are fully insured including public liability and will provide a copy for peace of mind upon request. We also have a Waste carriers license for that extra peace of mind. Get in touch for a competitive quotation! Thanks for taking the time to read through our profile. Kind regards Mark. MJWD SOLUTIONS LTD (part of MJWD property maintenance group)

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Reviewed by Caroline on 13/3/2024

Very pleased with the work done by Mark and Malcolm. I've asked them to do another job for me now .

Hello, I been working for 26 years professionally, the most important thing for me is for the client to be satisfied and everything to be clean afterwards.

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Reviewed by Clare on 13/3/2024

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