If you’re planning to refresh your home’s exterior, one of the first questions that comes up is: how long is this going to take? The answer depends on several factors — from the size of your home to the prep work involved — but most professional jobs take 3 to 7 days.
Let’s break down the timeline, what affects it, and how you can plan your project for the best results.
Quick Answer: Average Exterior Painting Timeline
| Home Size | Estimated Duration |
|---|---|
| Small (1-story, <1500 sq ft) | 2–3 days |
| Medium (1500–3000 sq ft) | 4–5 days |
| Large (2+ stories, >3000 sq ft) | 6–7+ days |
These estimates assume mild weather, standard prep, and a professional crew using high-quality tools and products.
What Factors Affect the Time It Takes to Paint a House?
Size and Layout of Your Home
- Larger homes naturally take longer.
- Multi-story homes require ladders, scaffolding, and added labor.
- Intricate trim or architectural details increase paint time.
Surface Material and Condition
- Wood and stucco require more prep than vinyl siding.
- Cracked, peeling, or chalking surfaces need additional repair.
Prep Work Required
- Power washing, sanding, scraping, and caulking can take a full day or more.
- Skipping prep leads to shorter paint life — don’t cut corners here.
Weather and Climate
- Rain or high humidity slows down drying.
- Temperature extremes affect how paint adheres and cures.
- Ideal painting range: 60–80°F and dry.
Crew Size and Tools
- A DIY job may take weeks.
- A professional crew with sprayers, scaffolding, and systems in place can dramatically reduce time.
Breakdown of a Typical Exterior Painting Schedule
| Stage | Time Needed |
|---|---|
| Surface inspection & setup | 0.5–1 day |
| Power washing & dry time | 1 day |
| Repairs & priming | 1 day |
| Painting & detail work | 1–3 days |
| Touch-ups & cleanup | 0.5 day |
This puts most professional projects in the 3–5 day range — weather permitting.
How to Speed Up the Process Without Cutting Corners
- Hire a professional crew with experience in your home type
- Use fast-drying primers and paints
- Schedule during optimal weather months (late spring to early fall)
- Stick to two coats unless drastic color changes are needed
- Avoid DIY delays — painting in the evenings or weekends stretches the job significantly
DIY vs. Professional Exterior Painting Timeline
| Approach | Timeline | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| DIY | 7–14+ days | Depends on free time and equipment |
| Professional Crew | 3–7 days | Includes prep, painting, and cleanup |
While DIY can save on labor costs, it takes more time and often results in uneven finishes or missed prep.
When to Schedule Your Exterior Paint Job
The best time to paint outside is when weather is warm, dry, and consistent:
- May–September is peak season in WV and VA
- Avoid the rainy spring and late fall when humidity or cold temps can interfere
- Book ahead — reputable painters like Brackens often schedule 2–4 weeks in advance during the busy season
Why Timing Matters for Homeowners in WV and VA
In the Eastern Panhandle and Northern Virginia, we deal with:
- Humid summers that slow drying
- Afternoon thunderstorms
- Freezing winter temps that prevent painting
We also know many homeowners schedule exterior paint before listing a home, after storm damage, or to meet HOA deadlines — so time-sensitive execution matters.
How Brackens Painting Gets It Done Efficiently
At Brackens Painting, we take the guesswork out of timelines. With over a decade of experience in Martinsburg and surrounding areas, we:
- Handle all prep work, including power washing and repairs
- Use premium paints that dry and cure efficiently
- Finish most jobs in 3–5 days, depending on weather
- Keep your property clean and protected throughout the process
We’re licensed, insured, and veteran-owned — and we take pride in painting homes that stand the test of time.
Get a Fast, Flawless Exterior Paint Job
Want your home professionally painted — without long delays?
Call Brackens Painting today at (304) 620-5342 or request your free quote. We proudly serve Martinsburg, Hedgesville, Falling Waters, and surrounding areas with top-tier exterior painting services.
