Exterior Painting in London

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Exterior Painting Prices in London (2026)

Typical price ranges for exterior painting across London. Prices vary based on surface area, paint specification, scaffold requirements, and surface condition.

JobFromUp To
Exterior 3-bed semi£1,500£4,000
Exterior 4-bed detached£2,500£6,000
Masonry paint (per m²)£8£20
Garden wall painting£300£800
UPVC window painting (per window)£80£150
Render repair + painting£500£2,000
Scaffolding (3-bed semi, 1 week)£500£1,200

Prices are estimates for London 2026. Scaffolding costs shown are separate from paint work. Always get multiple quotes.

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About Exterior Painting in London

London's variable weather, airborne pollution, and the sheer diversity of its building fabric make exterior painting a more demanding undertaking than in many other UK cities. Pollution from traffic — particularly in inner London — deposits a layer of particulates on painted surfaces that accelerates paint degradation and discolouration. Masonry paints formulated for London conditions must be flexible enough to bridge hairline cracks caused by seasonal movement, breathable enough to allow moisture in older lime-render walls to escape, and durable enough to resist UV breakdown. Dulux Weathershield Smooth Masonry and Sandtex Fine Textured Masonry are the most widely used trade products; for conservation-area buildings on lime render, Keim Granital or equivalent silicate-based mineral paint is strongly recommended.

Preparation is the single most important factor in exterior paint longevity. A professional exterior painter in London will start by pressure-washing the surface to remove dirt, algae, and loose paint; treat any mould or algae growth with a fungicidal wash; fill cracks and apply a stabilising primer to powdery surfaces; and apply a minimum of two coats of the specified paint. Properties in conservation areas should check with their local planning authority before changing exterior paint colours — some conservation areas specify approved palettes. Planning permission is not normally required for repainting in the same colour, but a change of colour on a listed building always requires listed building consent.

Frequently Asked Questions — Exterior Painting London

How often should I paint the outside of my London house?

Most London homes should have their exterior repainted every 5–10 years, depending on the paint type and how exposed the property is. South and west-facing elevations and properties near the Thames or in high-traffic areas may need repainting sooner due to pollution and UV exposure. Silicate and mineral paints tend to last longer than standard masonry paint. Annual inspection of any cracks or flaking is good practice to catch problems early.

What is the best paint for exterior London walls?

For brick and render surfaces, masonry paint is the standard choice. Dulux Weathershield and Sandtex are popular trade choices, offering good flexibility and moisture resistance. For older lime-render properties (common in conservation areas), a breathable mineral or silicate paint such as Keim Granital is recommended as it allows moisture to escape without trapping damp. Timber windows and doors require a dedicated exterior oil-based or water-based satin, not masonry paint.

What time of year is best for exterior painting in London?

April to September is the best window for exterior painting in London, during dry spells when temperatures are consistently above 10°C. Paint should not be applied below 5°C or in direct rain. London's weather is unpredictable — your decorator will monitor forecasts and plan around dry periods. Avoid painting in high winds, which cause rapid uneven drying, and never paint onto damp or wet surfaces.

Do I need scaffolding for exterior painting in London?

For two-storey properties and above, scaffolding is almost always required for safe exterior painting in London. Your decorator will arrange scaffold hire as part of the job — costs for a standard 3-bed semi are typically £500–£1,200 for one week. Ground-floor work and single-storey extensions can usually be reached from ladders or a tower scaffold. Always confirm that your decorator and scaffolding company carry the appropriate insurance.

How long does exterior painting take in London?

A 3-bed semi-detached house in London typically takes 3–7 days for exterior painting, depending on the surface area, condition of existing paint, and number of coats required. Properties with extensive timber — bay windows, sash frames, soffits, fascias — add significantly to the time. Scaffold erection and dismantling is typically arranged for the day before and day after the paint work.

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