Cost to paint trim in your home

If you’re in the Chicago suburbs—Elgin, St. Charles, Bartlett, or Algonquin—you might be wondering about the cost to paint your wood trim. Painting trim isn’t just about slapping on a coat of paint; it involves different levels of prep work that can affect the overall Cost to paint trim in your home

Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to pay based on the condition of your trim and the level of work needed. (for this article, we are only talking about repainting already painted trim or painting new pre-primed white trim.

Cost to Paint Trim with One Coat of Paint

For trim that’s in good condition and has already been painted, a single coat of paint is typically all that’s needed. Here’s what factors into this cost:

• Labor and Materials: Professional painters charge based on labor hours and materials used. The cost per linear foot for one coat of paint can range from $1.50 to $3.00.
• Average Total Cost: For an average home in the Chicago suburbs, repainting trim with one coat typically costs between $500 and $1,000, depending on the size of the home, how much prep work there is, the amount of trim, and if we are moving items from the wall.

Local Insight: Homeowners in the St. Charles and Bartlett areas may find higher costs compared to smaller towns due to a higher demand for professional painting services and larger homes that require more labor and prep work.

Cost to Paint Trim That Needs Primer and Paint

If your trim has never been painted or is in rough shape (stained, discolored, or uneven), you’ll need a coat of primer before painting. This step ensures better paint adhesion and a smoother finish.

• Primer and Paint Costs: The cost of primer and additional labor will add roughly $1.00 to $2.50 per linear foot to the base painting price.
• Average Total Cost: For a typical project, expect to pay between $1,000 and $2,000 for trim that requires primer and paint. The final price depends on factors such as the type of primer used (oil-based primers are more expensive) and the total length of the trim.

Product Tip: For top-notch results, high-quality primers like Sherwin-Williams Multi-Purpose Latex Primer and Benjamin Moore Fresh Start Primer are highly recommended.

Cost to Paint Trim with Full Prep Work (Caulking, Nail Hole Filling, Sanding)

When you’re dealing with trim that needs a lot of prep, like filling in nail holes, caulking gaps, and sanding rough spots, the cost can go up due to the added labor involved.

Why Extra Prep Is Important

• Nail Hole Filling: Ensures a smooth, seamless surface.
• Caulking: Helps seal gaps where trim meets walls, preventing future cracking.
• Sanding: Smooths imperfections and helps the paint adhere better.

Cost Breakdown:

• Prep Work Cost: Adding full prep work can increase the cost by $2.00 to $4.00 per linear foot.
• Average Total Cost: For a comprehensive trim painting job that includes caulking, nail hole filling, and sanding, the total project can range from $1,500 to $3,000 or more, depending on the home’s size and amount of detail in the trim.

Homeowner Tip: If your home in Algonquin, Crytal Lake, Elgin, or Bartlett which has older trim that’s seen better days, investing in proper prep work will result in a longer-lasting, more polished finish.

What Affects the Overall Cost for painting?

Several variables influence the total cost of painting wood trim:

• Size of the Home: Larger homes with more linear feet of trim will naturally cost more.
• Trim Style: More intricate or detailed trim takes longer to paint, increasing labor costs.
• Paint Quality: High-end paints like Sherwin-Williams ProClassic or Benjamin Moore Advance have a higher price tag but offer better durability and finish.
• Labor Rates: Professional painter rates vary between $50-$100 per hour in the Chicago suburbs.
• If we have to mask the walls and floors more time means more money to hire a painting contractor.

Why Hire a Professional Painter?

While some might consider painting trim a DIY project, there’s a reason pros are called pros. They come equipped with experience, high-quality tools, and the know-how to handle unexpected issues. If you’re in Elgin, St. Charles, Bartlett, or Algonquin, hiring a reputable local painting contractor will save you time and ensure the job gets done right. (read more about hiring a painting contractor here)

Finding the Right Paint Contractor

Before you decide on a painter, make sure to:

• Check Reviews: Websites like Google Reviews, Yelp, and Angie’s List provide insight into the experiences of past customers.
• Request Estimates: Always get a few estimates to compare services and costs.
• Ask Questions: Ensure the contractor is licensed, insured, and familiar with preparing and painting wood trim.

Parting thoughts on painting trim

Whether you’re repainting existing trim or starting fresh with a full prep job, understanding the costs involved can help you budget accordingly. Properly painted trim enhances the look of your home, and it’s worth investing in a job done right. If you’re a homeowner in the western Chicago suburbs, make sure to weigh your options between DIY and professional services.

Would you rather tackle this yourself or leave it to the experts? Whatever you decide, now you’re ready to make an informed choice for a home that looks its best.