Interior or Exterior Painting: What to Do First When Renovating?

If you are repainting the whole house but cannot do it all at once, which comes first? There is no rule that fits everyone, but there is a sensible way to decide based on what your home actually needs.

Do the exterior first if protection is the priority

The outside of your home is what takes the weather. If the exterior paint is failing, peeling or letting water in, that is doing real damage to the structure underneath, and it should come first. The exterior is also what everyone sees, so if you are selling or just want the biggest visual lift, start outside.

Do the interior first if you are living in it

If the exterior is still sound and it is the inside that feels tired, dark or dated, there is no reason to wait. Interiors are not weather-dependent, so they can be done any time of year, and you live with the inside every day. For most people the interior is the one that improves daily life the most.

A few things that help you decide

• Weather. Exterior work needs dry, mild conditions. Interiors can be done in any season, which makes them handy through the wet months.
• Selling soon. Exterior and street appeal usually give the best return at sale time.
• Damage. Anything actively letting water in jumps the queue, inside or out.
• Budget. Splitting the job across two stages is completely normal, and we can help you plan the order.

If you are not sure, we are happy to walk through it with you and work out a plan that suits your place and your budget. Get in touch for a free quote, or read more about our interior and exterior painting.