Painter & Decorator Costs in Ireland: 2026 Price Guide

Whether you're refreshing a single room or redecorating your entire home, knowing typical painter costs helps you budget effectively and compare quotes fairly.

How Painters Charge

Painters in Ireland typically charge in one of three ways:

• Per day: €180 – €300 (most common)
• Per room: Based on size and complexity
• Per square metre: Usually for larger or commercial jobs

Most quotes for residential work are based on daily rates multiplied by estimated time, plus materials if the painter supplies them.

Interior Painting Costs

Per Room

Room pricing depends on size, ceiling height, prep work needed, and number of coats. These estimates include labour and paint:

Full House

Painting an entire house usually offers better value per room:

• 2-bed apartment: €1,500 – €2,500
• 3-bed semi: €2,500 – €4,500
• 4-bed detached: €4,000 – €7,000

Exterior Painting Costs

Exterior work costs more due to scaffolding, weather considerations, and specialised paints:

• Front of house only: €800 – €1,500
• Full exterior (3-bed semi): €2,000 – €4,000
• Full exterior (detached): €3,500 – €7,000
• Fascias & soffits: €300 – €600
• Windows & doors: €50 – €150 per item

Add €500+ for scaffolding hire if needed.

Wallpapering Costs

Wallpapering is more labour-intensive than painting:

• Per roll (hanging only): €20 – €40
• Feature wall: €150 – €300
• Full room: €400 – €800
• Wallpaper removal: €10 – €20 per sqm

Complex patterns and high-end papers take longer to hang.

What's Usually Included?

Most painting quotes include:

• Preparation (filling small holes, sanding, masking)
• Primer where needed
• Two coats of paint
• Clean-up

Usually NOT included:

• Moving furniture
• Major repairs or plastering
• Wallpaper removal
• Paint (some painters supply, others don't — clarify upfront)

What Affects the Price?

• Room condition: Damaged walls need prep work
• Ceiling height: Tall ceilings take longer
• Number of coats: Dark to light colour changes need more
• Paint quality: Premium paints cost more
• Access: Stairwells and high ceilings are harder
• Location: Dublin rates are typically 15-25% higher

How to Get the Best Price

1. Clear the room: Painters charge for time, not painting — moving furniture eats into your budget
2. Do basic prep: Fill obvious holes, remove picture hooks
3. Get multiple quotes: At least 3 from different painters
4. Be flexible on timing: Quiet periods may offer better rates
5. Bundle rooms: Full house jobs get better rates than single rooms
6. Provide paint: Buy your own from trade suppliers for savings

Questions to Ask Your Painter

• Are you insured?
• What's included in the quote?
• Do you supply paint or should I?
• How many coats are included?
• What preparation is needed?
• How long will it take?
• Do you guarantee your work?