‍

Key Takeaways

‍Exterior painting

• Use flexible water-based acrylic paints that can withstand weather damage and UV rays.
• There are safety risks and specialised preperation needed so it's best left to professional tradies.

Interior painting

• Paint in the kitchen and bathroom should withstand scrubbing, washing and humidity
• Semi-gloss finishes are ideal for wet areas while a matte finish makes for more inviting living spaces.

Sydney's Sun and Salt Sprays vs. Your Walls

While your bathroom might see years of steam and scrubbing, your home's exterior is constantly battling our intense Australian sun, rain, and changing temperatures.

Sydney's sunny climate is particularly demanding on exterior surfaces. Quality exterior paints need excellent UV resistance to prevent fading and deterioration. Lighter colours and paints that reflect light well can help reduce the amount of heat that your home absorbs. This can potentially reduce your cooling costs during our hot summers.

Modern exterior paints are formulated to handle these conditions: they flex with temperature changes, resist moisture, and provide a protective barrier against the elements. Interior paints, while durable in their own right, are designed more for stain resistance and washability rather than weather protection.

Kerb Appeal vs. Cozy Corners

Both exterior and interior painting add value to your home, but they serve different purposes:

Exterior painting significantly enhances kerb appeal and creates that crucial first impression. A fresh, well-maintained exterior signals to neighbours and potential buyers that your home is cared for. It's also your first line of defence against our sometimes harsh weather conditions.

Exterior painting creates a protective shield against Sydney's sometimes harsh weather conditions. Properly applied external paint prevents moisture infiltration that can lead to rot, mould, and structural damage. Regular maintenance and timely repainting can prevent more expensive repairs down the track.

Interior painting transforms your living spaces and can dramatically change how rooms feel. It creates the backdrop for your daily life - from energizing morning kitchens to calming bedroom retreats. The right interior paint choices can make your space feel larger or bring warmth to south-facing rooms that receive less natural light.

Interior painting maintains your home's internal surfaces and contributes to a healthy living environment. Quality interior paints resist mould in humid areas, stand up to cleaning, and maintain their appearance over time. 

DIY Work or Professional Painting Services?

Interior painting can sometimes be a manageable DIY project, especially for confident homeowners dealing with standard-height walls and simple rooms. Small touch-ups or single-room refreshes often fall within the DIY category.

Exterior painting, however, typically benefits from professional expertise. Professional tradespeople can handle the challenges of exterior painting:

• Working safely at heights
• Proper preparation of surfaces exposed to the elements
• Addressing potential issues like mould or salt damage in coastal areas
• Ensuring proper adhesion and weatherproofing

For Sydney homes built before 1970, professional help becomes even more important due to the likely presence of lead paint, which requires specialized handling and disposal.

Paint Types for Sydney's Climate

Different environments demand different paint formulations.

Exterior paint for Sydney’s Coastal Climate

Water-based flexible-acrylic paints are ideal for exterior surfaces in Sydney's climate as they are more durable and can resist harsh UV rays. These paints allow your home's surfaces to expand and contract with temperature fluctuations while maintaining a protective barrier.

For timber decks and features, both solid and semi-transparent stains can provide protection while showcasing the natural beauty of the wood.

Interior Paint for Different Spaces 

Bathrooms and kitchens benefit from moisture-resistant paints that can prevent moulds from growing. Semi-gloss or gloss finishes work well in these areas as they resist water and are easier to clean. 

For living spaces and bedrooms, matte or low-sheen finishes provide a sophisticated look, while higher-gloss paints are better suited for trim, doors, and high-traffic areas that need frequent cleaning.

Water-based paints cost more than their oil-based counterparts. They may also require more coats to achieve the desired colour. However, they are generally preferred for both interior and exterior applications these days, as they offer lower VOCs (volatile organic compounds), faster drying times and easier cleanup.

Budget Breakdown for Sydney Homes

Understanding typical costs helps with planning your painting project:

The cost of hiring professional painters in Sydney ranges between $65 to $95 per hour. A single interior room might cost between $400-$1,200 including paint and materials, depending on size and complexity.

Several factors can tilt these costs one way or the other:

• Surface condition and required preparation
• Ceiling height and accessibility
• Quality of paint selected
• Number of coats needed
• Intricate details or special finishes

Closing Note

Exterior and interior painting isn’t just about colour. It’s about maximising your home’s value and protecting your budget as it thrives in Sydney's coastal climate. This is where we come in.

SnapTradie uses AI-powered quoting to match you with Sydney-savvy tradies who understand our climate’s demands.

Get your free estimate in minutes. No sales calls or obligations. Just clarity on costs from experts we vetted and trust.

‍