How Much Does It Cost to Paint a Commercial Building Exterior? [2025 Data]
The average cost to paint a commercial building exterior is $5,500 to $18,500, with most projects averaging $12,000. Main factors include building size, paint type, and labor.
The cost to paint a commercial building exterior depends on building size, paint type, and labor rates.
Expect to pay $2 to $6 per square foot for commercial painting.
Hiring pros costs $50 to $100 per hour or $1.50 to $4 per square foot, and ensures safety, quality, and compliance with regulations.
Add-ons like specialty anti-graffiti or reflective coatings increase the total cost.
Regular maintenance extends paint life and reduces future costs.
This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by an Angi Editor in accordance with our AI policy.
On average, the cost to paint a commercial building exterior ranges from $5,500 to $18,500, with most projects costing an average of $12,000. Prices range from $2 to $6 per square foot, depending on building size, paint quality, and prep work. Larger or multi-story buildings may cost more due to increased labor and equipment needs.
A professional paint job protects your property’s exterior and keeps it looking sharp. This guide breaks down all the key factors to help you plan and budget with confidence.
Exterior Commercial Building Painting Cost Factors
Several factors directly impact the cost to paint the exterior of a commercial building. Understanding these will help you estimate your project budget accurately.
Building Type
Different building types affect both the complexity and cost of exterior painting. Offices, warehouses, retail spaces, industrial buildings, and apartment complexes each have unique requirements.
Single-story structures are often less expensive to paint than multi-story buildings due to easier access and reduced equipment needs. High-traffic retail spaces may require more durable paints or frequent touch-ups, while storage facilities can use more basic coatings.
Size
The total square footage of your building is the primary driver of cost. Painting costs are calculated per square foot, so larger buildings naturally require a bigger budget. For example, a small 5,000-square-foot property costs much less than a 20,000-square-foot complex.
| Building Size (Sq. Ft.) | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| 5,000 | $10,000–$30,000 |
| 10,000 | $20,000–$60,000 |
| 20,000+ | $30,000–$120,000 |
Materials
The quality and type of exterior paint used greatly affect the total project cost. Commercial buildings often require specialty coatings for durability, weather resistance, or branding. Premium paints last longer but cost more upfront. Some finishes, like anti-graffiti or waterproof coatings, add to the material cost. Most projects need two coats for full coverage.
| Paint Type | Cost per Gallon | Coverage per Gallon (Sq. Ft.) |
|---|---|---|
| Acrylic | $25–$60 | 250–400 |
| Elastomeric | $40–$80 | 75–300 |
| Epoxy | $50–$120 | 200–350 |
| Specialty coating | $75–$150 | 80–300 |
Labor
Labor is a significant portion of the cost to paint a commercial building exterior. Commercial painters, foremen, and sometimes project managers are involved. Labor rates range from $50 to $100 per hour or $1.50 to $4.00 per square foot. Crew size and project timeline depend on building size and complexity. Urban areas or regions with high demand often have higher labor costs.
Tall or hard-to-access buildings increase labor costs due to safety measures, specialized equipment, and longer setup times. Overtime or after-hours work, sometimes needed for business continuity, can also add to the price.
Prep
Proper surface preparation is essential for long-lasting results. Prep tasks include power washing, scraping, caulking, patching, and priming. Repairing cracks, replacing damaged siding, and masking off landscaping or adjacent surfaces are common.
Equipment rentals for lifts or scaffolding increase prep costs, especially for multi-story buildings. Safe disposal of old paint or debris may add environmental fees.
Tipping
Tipping is not standard for large-scale commercial painting projects, but it is appreciated for exceptional service or when crews go above and beyond. Instead of cash tips, property owners sometimes provide meals or write positive reviews to recognize the crew’s hard work. For very large or union jobs, tipping is less common due to company policies.
Additional Cost Factors
Several other variables can affect the cost of painting the exterior of a commercial building:
Permit and inspection fees, especially for historic or high-traffic locations.
Rental or use of specialized equipment like boom lifts, scaffolding, or safety harnesses.
Decorative add-ons such as murals, logos, or custom branding.
Delays due to weather, which can increase labor and equipment rental costs.
Post-construction cleanup and site restoration.
Accessibility challenges, including tight spaces or very tall buildings.
Environmental fees for hazardous material disposal, such as lead-based paint or solvents.
Exterior Commercial Painting Ongoing Costs
Painting a commercial building is an investment that comes with ongoing costs to keep the exterior looking its best.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance helps extend the life of your paint job. It’s wise to schedule touch-ups every two to five years, depending on your building’s exposure and local climate. Periodic inspections and minor repairs catch issues before they require full repainting.
Professional cleaning or power washing, which can cost $0.30 to $1 per square foot, keeps surfaces free of dirt and debris.
Operating Costs
The right exterior paint can help improve your building’s energy efficiency. Reflective or light-colored coatings reduce cooling costs in warmer climates. Maintaining branded or specialty finishes may require more frequent touch-ups or reapplication. If your property is in an area prone to graffiti, you might need to budget for ongoing removal or reapplication of anti-graffiti coatings.
Repairs
Before or after painting, you may need to address repairs such as patching stucco, fixing siding, or sealing cracks. These repairs range from $500 to $5,000, depending on the extent of the damage and the materials needed.
Addressing water damage, mold, or structural issues before painting ensures the new finish lasts longer and protects the building.
Insurance
Most commercial painting projects require contractors to carry liability and workers’ compensation insurance. For high-risk or high-rise projects, you may need additional insurance riders, which increase costs. Painting can sometimes lower your property insurance premiums by reducing risks associated with water intrusion or exterior deterioration.
DIY Exterior Commercial Painting vs. Hiring a Pro
Painting a commercial building exterior yourself can seem cost-effective, but there are important factors to consider. DIY costs include materials, equipment rental (such as lifts or scaffolding), safety gear, and permits. While you can save on labor, the time commitment is significant, and there are safety and quality risks.
Required skills include surface prep, paint application, and compliance with safety codes. DIY is only practical for small, single-story buildings with easy access. Larger or multi-story projects demand professional crews with the right equipment and training.
DIY painting can take several weeks, while a professional team may complete the job in a fraction of the time with better results. Pros also ensure code compliance and minimize disruption to your business.
Exterior Commercial Building Painting Add-Ons
Several add-ons can enhance your building’s exterior, but they also increase the total cost:
Specialty coatings such as anti-graffiti, waterproof, or fire-resistant finishes.
Custom color matching or branded color schemes to reflect your business identity.
Murals, logos, or decorative graphics for unique curb appeal.
Surface repairs or upgrades, like siding replacement or masonry repair.
Window and door trim painting for a polished look.
Pressure washing or cleaning services before or after painting.
Protective sealants or weatherproofing for lasting durability.
Additional coats in high-traffic or harsh climate areas for extra protection.
Tips to Reduce Costs While Painting the Exterior of a Commercial Building
Smart planning and a few strategic choices can help you lower the cost to paint the exterior of a commercial building:
Obtain multiple quotes from reputable local exterior painters to compare pricing and services.
Schedule painting during off-peak seasons when contractors may offer better rates.
Prepare the site in advance by clearing obstacles to reduce labor hours.
Choose durable, high-quality paints to extend the interval between repaints.
Bundle painting with other exterior maintenance tasks to save on mobilization costs.
Limit customizations or specialty finishes to essential or high-visibility areas.
Negotiate for discounts if you have multiple properties or plan repeat business.
Maintain painted surfaces regularly to reduce the need for major repainting.
Opt for standard paint options to lower material and labor costs, while still delivering a professional result.
How Angi Gets Its Cost Data
Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We extensively research project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We rely on reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
Want to help us improve our cost data? Send us a recent project quote to [email protected]. Quotes and personal information will not be shared publicly.
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