Material tier comparison
Exterior painting material tier comparison
Estimate a planning range for exterior repainting, prep, and trim refresh work. Review assumptions, exclusions, and quote-ready next steps before contacting a contractor.
Last updated: 2026-06-30
Quick answer
How to use this comparison
Use the tier table to choose a realistic material allowance before running the exterior painting calculator. Budget tiers fit simpler scopes, standard tiers fit common homeowner projects, and premium tiers fit higher-finish or harder-access work.
| Tier | When it fits | Material allowance | Labor allowance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic exterior paint | Basic paint with limited repair scope. | $0.55 / paintable square feet | $1.75 / paintable square feet |
| Quality paint + standard prep | Common exterior coating and prep mix. | $0.90 / paintable square feet | $2.35 / paintable square feet |
| Premium coating + detailed prep | Higher-end coatings and extra prep detail. | $1.35 / paintable square feet | $3.10 / paintable square feet |
After choosing a tier, open the Exterior Painting Cost Calculator and use the assumptions list to compare contractor quotes.