Treating Your Home As We Treat Our Own
Complete Cost Guide for Lakeside Homeowners
How Much Does Exterior Painting Cost in Lakeside CA?
Planning an exterior painting project for your Lakeside home? Understanding costs upfront helps you budget effectively and avoid surprises. This comprehensive guide breaks down what exterior painting costs in Lakeside and throughout San Diego County, including factors that affect pricing and tips for getting the best value.
At Franklin Custom Finish, we've painted hundreds of homes in Lakeside and surrounding communities since 2015. We provide transparent, detailed estimates so you know exactly what you're paying for.
Average Exterior Painting Costs in Lakeside
Small Home
Under 1,500 sq ft
$3,500 - $5,500
Average Home
1,500 - 2,500 sq ft
$5,000 - $9,000
Large Home
Over 2,500 sq ft
$8,000 - $15,000+
What's Included in These Estimates:
- Power washing and surface cleaning
- Surface preparation and repairs
- Premium exterior paint (2 coats)
- Trim, fascia, and door painting
- Landscaping protection
- Complete cleanup
What Affects Exterior Painting Cost?
Home Size
Square footage is the primary cost driver. Larger homes require more paint, labor, and time.
Surface Condition
Homes needing extensive prep, repairs, or priming will cost more than well-maintained surfaces.
Paint Quality
Premium paints from Sherwin-Williams, Benjamin Moore cost more but last longer and look better.
Complexity
Multi-story homes, detailed trim work, and hard-to-reach areas increase labor costs.
Stucco vs Wood Siding Costs
Most Lakeside homes feature stucco exteriors, which require specific preparation and materials. Stucco painting typically costs 10-20% more than wood siding due to the need for elastomeric coatings that bridge hairline cracks and provide superior waterproofing. However, properly painted stucco can last longer than wood siding paint in our dry, sunny climate.
Wood siding, while less common in Lakeside, requires thorough scraping, sanding, and priming of bare wood. If your wood siding has rot or damage, repairs will add to the total cost. For more details, see our guide on painting stucco vs wood siding.
Multi-Story Home Considerations
Two-story and multi-level homes in Lakeside's hillside neighborhoods like Eucalyptus Hills require scaffolding or lift equipment, adding $500-$2,000 to project costs. Steep lots and limited access can further increase labor time and equipment needs.
When to Repaint Your Lakeside Home
Not sure if it's time to repaint? Check our comprehensive signs your home needs repainting guide. Common indicators include fading, chalking, peeling, and cracks. In Lakeside's sunny climate, south and west-facing walls typically need repainting sooner due to intense UV exposure.
Tips for Getting the Best Value
1. Get Multiple Estimates
Always get 2-3 detailed written estimates. Beware of quotes significantly below average—they often indicate inferior materials, skipped prep work, or inexperienced crews.
2. Don't Skimp on Prep Work
Proper preparation is the foundation of a long-lasting paint job. Cutting corners on power washing, repairs, or priming leads to premature paint failure and higher long-term costs.
3. Invest in Quality Paint
Premium paints from Sherwin-Williams, Benjamin Moore, or Dunn-Edwards cost more upfront but last 2-3 years longer than budget paints. The cost difference is typically recovered in extended paint life.
4. Time Your Project Right
While San Diego allows year-round painting, spring and fall offer the best conditions. Some contractors offer slight discounts during slower winter months. Learn more in our best time to paint guide.
5. Bundle Services
Combining exterior painting with interior painting or power washing often results in better overall pricing than separate projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to paint the exterior of a house in Lakeside CA?
Exterior painting costs in Lakeside typically range from $3,500 to $12,000+ depending on home size, condition, and paint quality. A 1,500 sq ft home averages $4,000-$6,000, while larger 2,500+ sq ft homes can cost $8,000-$15,000. Stucco homes common in San Diego County may require elastomeric coatings which add to costs but provide superior protection.
What factors affect exterior painting costs in San Diego County?
Key factors include home square footage, number of stories (multi-story requires scaffolding), surface condition and prep work needed, type of siding (stucco vs wood), paint quality chosen, trim and detail work, and accessibility challenges. Homes requiring extensive repairs or priming will cost more.
Is it cheaper to paint or replace siding in Lakeside?
Painting is significantly cheaper than siding replacement. Exterior painting costs $3-6 per square foot, while new siding installation costs $8-15+ per square foot. A quality paint job on well-maintained siding can last 7-10 years in San Diego's climate, making it the more economical choice for most homeowners.
How long does exterior paint last in Lakeside's climate?
With proper preparation and premium paints, exterior paint in Lakeside lasts 7-10 years. San Diego's intense UV exposure, temperature swings, and occasional Santa Ana winds can accelerate wear. Using UV-resistant paints and elastomeric coatings for stucco extends paint life significantly.
Get Your Free Exterior Painting Estimate
Ready to transform your Lakeside home? Contact Franklin Custom Finish for a detailed, no-obligation estimate.