Home Improvement

How much does it cost to paint a house? Australian homeowners typically spend between $2,400 for a simple interior job and $35,000 to paint both inside and outside of a double-storey home. House painting costs vary substantially between cities. Sydney’s homeowners pay around $2,500 for a one-bedroom property. Melbourne’s residents might need to budget up to $3,800 for similar work. Our research of the latest pricing data will help you understand the expected costs when you plan your house painting project in 2025. This complete guide breaks down your house painting costs. You’ll find detailed information about interior and exterior rates along with specific room prices that will help you make smart decisions about your home improvement project. Average cost to paint a house in 2025: Complete overview Paint costs in Australia have changed a lot in 2025, especially when you have interior and exterior house painting projects. Here’s a clear picture of what you can expect to pay. Interior painting costs: $60-$100 per square metre You’ll pay between $40 to $70 per square metre for interior painting. Complex jobs with multiple colours or special finishes might cost up to $160 per square metre. The price includes: Exterior painting costs: $40-$70 per square metre Exterior painting prices range from $40 to $70 per square metre. The final cost depends on your home’s exterior material: Full house painting: What to expect Australian homeowners spend between $12,300 and $30,600 for a complete house painting project in 2025. Different house types have their own price ranges: Single-storey homes: Double-storey properties: Professional painters charge between $60 to $70 per hour. This rate doesn’t include materials and paint costs. Paint quality makes a big difference in the total cost. Premium paints cost between $80 to $160 per litre. Textured or high-gloss finishes add extra labour charges of $10 to $30 per square metre. Your final cost depends on these key factors: Double-storey homes need framework, which adds to both time and cost. Access issues might require extra safety gear or equipment rental. Professional painters will visit your property to give you a detailed quote. This gives you accurate pricing based on your specific needs and challenges. Expert painters suggest you should be very specific about your project details to get the most accurate quote. Cost breakdown by house size The size of your house directly affects your painting costs. Here’s a detailed breakdown of expenses for different house sizes to help you plan your budget. Small homes (under 150 sqm) Painting costs stay manageable for homes under 150 square metres. A single-storey home of 100 square metres costs between $9,200 and $15,300 for interior painting. The exterior painting costs less, ranging from $6,200 to $10,800. Small properties have several advantages: Medium homes (150-250 sqm) Mid-sized properties need more work and resources. A 235-square-metre home’s interior painting costs range between $21,700 and $36,100. The exterior painting costs from $14,500 to $25,300. A typical three-bedroom house with two bathrooms, kitchen, and laundry needs an investment between $6,900 and $9,200. Surface preparation requirements often drive the final costs up. Large homes (over 250 sqm) Bigger properties over 250 square metres cost more to paint. A 400-square-metre home’s interior painting ranges from $36,700 to $61,200. The exterior painting costs between $24,500 and $42,900. Large homes come with extra challenges: Multi-storey considerations Two-storey homes bring unique challenges that affect the price. A 250-square-metre double-storey house costs between $10,400 and $19,200. Three to four-storey properties of 400 square metres range from $15,300 to $29,100. Multi-storey painting costs depend on: Roof painting adds to your total cost. Small house roofs cost $3,100 to $6,200, while medium house roofs range from $7,700 to $15,300. Large house roof painting can cost between $7,700 and $18,400. Weatherboard homes cost more than brick veneer properties. A single-storey weatherboard house costs between $15,300 and $30,600. Brick veneer homes are more affordable, with prices starting from $4,600. Room-by-room painting costs Room-specific painting costs help you plan your budget accurately. Let’s get into the current rates for different spaces in your home. Bedrooms: $300-$750 per room A standard bedroom that measures 3 x 3.6 metres costs between $460 and $1,150 for professional painting. This price has essential materials like primer and about 10 litres of paint. Larger master bedrooms or rooms with intricate architectural details might reach the higher end of this range. Living areas and hallways: $900-$2,000 Living spaces cost more due to their size and complexity. Professional painters charge between $920 and $3,100 for a standard living room. Combined spaces like living rooms with attached kitchens or dining areas cost $1,400 to $4,600. Kitchens: $1,000-$1,500 Kitchen painting stands out because of cabinet considerations. Basic wall painting costs about $1,600. Cabinet refinishing costs: Bathrooms: $150-$350 Bathrooms need specialised attention despite their small size. Standard bathroom painting ranges from $230 to $540. Costs vary based on: Ceilings and trim work Ceiling painting comes with its own cost structure. Current market rates show: Standard room ceilings: Trim work, including architraves and baseboards, runs between $10 and $10 per linear foot. Surface preparation remains crucial for professional results. Painters charge $40 to $80 per hour, and labour makes up about 85% of total project costs. Location significantly affects these prices. Bathroom painting in Sydney costs $260 to $590, while Perth’s prices are lower at $200 to $460. Room complexity, surface conditions, and local market rates influence the final pricing. Complete home interior prices scale up with size. A two-bedroom unit with kitchen and living areas typically costs $1,300 to $2,300. Three-bedroom houses with two bathrooms cost $6,900 to $9,200. Factors that influence house painting costs The final cost of your house painting project depends on several elements. Here’s what you should know about these important factors that will determine your investment in 2025. Paint quality and types Your choice of paint will affect both your immediate costs and long-term value. Premium paints cost more upfront but last longer and cover better. Right now, high-quality paints in the market cost between

Kitchen remodel costs range from $20,000 to $300,000, making it one of the most important home improvement investments. This investment can increase your home’s value by up to $200,000 based on the renovation’s quality. Recent data reveals that a mid-range kitchen renovation budget typically falls between $50,000 and $100,000. Labour costs make up 40-50% of the total expense. Planning such a big investment might feel overwhelming. We created this complete guide that helps you understand what to expect during your kitchen remodel, from budget-friendly updates to luxury renovations. Planning Your Kitchen Remodel Budget A solid budget lays the groundwork for a successful kitchen remodel. Recent data shows kitchen renovations cost between $50,000 and $100,000. These numbers will help you set realistic money goals for your project. Setting realistic expectations The path to a well-planned kitchen remodel starts with a good look at your finances. Take stock of your savings, monthly income, and current financial obligations. On top of that, it’s smart to set aside 10-20% of your total budget for any surprises that pop up along the way. Your kitchen renovation costs depend on several key factors: Labour makes up 20-35% of your project costs. The budget typically breaks down this way: cabinets (35%), labour (20%), appliances (20%), windows (10%), fixtures (5%), fittings (3%), and other expenses (7%). Here’s everything you need to think about before setting your final budget: Creating a detailed budget spreadsheet A well-laid-out budget spreadsheet will guide you through the renovation process. Start by breaking down expenses into major parts: Material Costs: Labour Expenses: Your spreadsheet should track: Keep separate columns for projected and actual costs. This system helps you spot cost overruns early and lets you adjust your plans to stay on budget. Hidden costs often catch homeowners off guard: Getting at least three quotes from trusted manufacturers helps nail down exact costs. Energy-efficient appliances might cost more upfront but save money through lower utility bills. Don’t forget to include temporary living costs during the renovation. You might need money for eating out or cooking alternatives when your kitchen is out of commission. Breaking down financing options like home equity loans, redraw facilities, or renovation-specific loans will ensure you have enough funds throughout the project. Small Budget Kitchen Updates Want a new kitchen look without breaking the bank? You can create amazing results with smart updates while keeping your budget in check. Economical solutions Paint is one of the most effective and affordable kitchen updates you can make. A fresh coat on walls, cabinets, and ceiling will brighten up tired spaces. A white paint gave one homeowner’s kitchen a new life for under $180, while another achieved an amazing makeover for $400 by painting cabinets, walls, and tiles. Updating cabinets gives excellent value, especially with structurally sound units. You don’t need complete replacement. Here are some proven strategies: Light changes can make a big visual impact without costing much. A statement pendant light above an island bench or kitchen table will raise the room’s appeal. Many homeowners achieved great results by: Quick fixes under $10,000 Many homeowners have completed detailed kitchen updates within a $10,000 budget. One impressive transformation included: Updating appliances often makes a big difference. You don’t need to replace everything – just focus on what matters most. Many retailers will collect your old appliances free during new installations, which helps reduce overall costs. Countertop alternatives can save you serious money. Instead of expensive marble (typically $800 per square metre), one homeowner used contact paper for just $70. Other budget-friendly options include: Splashback updates don’t need to cost much. Marble-effect tiles add elegance without the high price tag. Pressed metal sheets painted white offer unique character at reasonable prices. Storage solutions offer chances for economical improvements. One creative homeowner turned wooden bed heads from a home demolition into stylish open shelving at minimal cost. Facebook Marketplace and local tip shops often have amazing finds – one homeowner found a pristine double sink for just $25. DIY projects need careful planning. Your focus should be on: Smaller spaces usually mean lower costs. Notwithstanding that, larger kitchens can benefit from targeted improvements in problem areas or flow issues. With smart planning and strategic choices, you can achieve remarkable transformations on modest budgets. Mid-Range Remodelling Options Mid-range kitchen renovations bring major improvements at reasonable costs. Recent data shows these projects cost between $50,000 and $100,000. This price range strikes a perfect balance between quality and affordability. Best value improvements Cabinetry proves to be one of the most economical upgrades in mid-range renovations. Melamine cabinet doors work great as alternatives to premium selections. They save homeowners $20,000 to $36,000 compared to natural wood options. These doors create realistic paint, wood grain, concrete, and metal finishes. Engineered stone countertops give excellent value because they mix durability with style. Caesarstone’s mineral surfaces cost between $2,000 and $4,000 per square metre with basic fabrication and installation. These surfaces resist scratches, stains, and high temperatures well. Underfloor heating under tile or stone flooring adds comfort and value in cooler regions like Victoria and Tasmania. Cold, uninviting surfaces become cosy, welcoming spaces that blend with the overall design scheme. Most effective changes The kitchen sink proves to be a surprisingly influential element. Its size and location create visual impact and often direct the space’s flow. Stainless steel sinks stay popular because they last long, clean easily, and come at competitive prices. Glass-front cabinets create visual interest and boost functionality. Children can find items more easily, and you can display cherished pieces. Though they need regular cleaning to avoid finger smudges, their beauty makes up for the extra work. Quartz countertops can change your kitchen’s entire look. Though engineered, they look like white marble and last longer. Many professional designers suggest using quartz for perimeter countertops and natural stone on islands to create a balanced, sophisticated look. Material alternatives Wood veneer works well as an economical alternative to solid wood cabinets. Homeowners can save about $150 per cabinet door by replacing the

Plantation shutters rank high among budget-friendly home improvements that boost property value. These elegant window fixtures offer a smart alternative to expensive kitchen or bathroom renovations. More Australian homeowners now choose them to add both functionality and style to their properties. The shutters’ benefits make them attractive to potential buyers. They protect privacy and security while cutting down energy costs through better temperature control. Your property’s value will increase right away and over time, whether you plan to sell or just want to make lasting improvements. This piece dives into how plantation shutters boost your home’s worth and what makes them a solid investment choice. We’ll look at their effect on various property types and help you decide if they match your property goals. Immediate Benefits to Property Value Plantation shutters lift your property’s visual appeal with their timeless design and sophisticated look. Their clean lines and structured appearance add refinement to any room, making them a highly desirable feature in real estate. These shutters work well with architectural styles of all types, from traditional Victorian homes to modern interiors. You’ll find plantation shutters offer more than just good looks. Homeowners can match or contrast them with existing décor because of their customizable options. This creates a unified look that boosts the property’s overall presentation. The wide range of colours and finishes will give these shutters the perfect fit with any colour scheme. Real estate agents often point out that homes with plantation shutters draw more potential buyers. These permanent fixtures create a premium, built-in look that makes them superior to temporary window treatments like curtains or blinds. Your home can really stand out in Melbourne’s competitive property market when you have plantation shutters as a distinctive feature. Buyers find these shutters even more appealing because of their practical benefits. The shutters provide excellent temperature control and help cut energy costs year-round. They block harsh heat in summer and keep warmth inside during winter, which reduces the need for artificial heating and cooling. There’s another reason why plantation shutters make sense – their durability and minimal upkeep. Unlike fabric curtains that fade or blinds that break easily, plantation shutters keep their looks and functionality for 10 to 15 years or longer. Their robust construction helps them handle daily use, and they need just basic cleaning to stay fresh. The mix of visual appeal and practical advantages makes plantation shutters valuable during property appraisals. Their presence often indicates quality maintenance and smart design choices, which can lead to higher property values. This improved appraisal value helps not just with selling but with refinancing options too. Long-term Investment Perspective Plantation shutters provide excellent financial benefits beyond their immediate effects. These fixtures can cut heat loss through windows by up to 51%, which leads to substantial energy savings year-round. Quality shutters prove their worth through exceptional durability. Hardwood or PVC shutters last 20 to 30 years. Premium PVC versions are so reliable that manufacturers back them with 20-year warranties. These shutters’ energy-saving features make them economically smart. They reduce heat loss by up to 40% in winter and block about 85% of summer heat. This efficiency shows up as lower utility bills over time. You’ll spend less on upkeep compared to other window coverings. While curtains and blinds need replacement every 5-8 years, shutters just need simple care. Regular dusting and an occasional wipe with a damp cloth keep them looking new. Build quality plays a key role in how long shutters last. Premium hardwood shutters made from basswood, poplar, or maple can serve you for decades. Vinyl shutters work great too, especially when you have high humidity in bathrooms and kitchens. Investment property owners can depreciate these shutters as capital improvements for tax purposes. Their reliable construction prevents up to 30% of total window heat loss, making them valuable for long-term property management. These shutters are a smart financial choice because they’re both durable and energy efficient. Good installation and maintenance help them handle temperature changes and harsh sunlight, so they keep working well and hold their value throughout their long life. Property Type Considerations Each property style needs specific attention to install plantation shutters correctly. PVC or aluminium shutters work best in modern homes because they look sleek and contemporary. These materials last long and create a clean, minimalist look that fits perfectly with today’s architectural trends. Victorian and Georgian homes call for timber plantation shutters as the ideal choice. These shutters blend naturally with traditional architectural features and help preserve the authentic character of heritage buildings. Many of these period homes actually had shutters at the time they were built, but owners removed them later. This makes adding them back a perfect fit for the property. Landlords face unique challenges with window treatments in rental properties. They often pick plantation shutters because these stay fixed between tenants. The shutters are tough and need little care – a quick wipe with a damp cloth is enough to keep them looking good. This works great especially when you have pets or smokers in the property, as wooden shutters don’t hold onto odours like fabric window treatments do. Beach houses need special protection from the elements. PVC shutters do an excellent job here by resisting UV rays, water, and moisture. An aluminium core inside these shutters adds strength and stops them from warping as time passes. The same benefits apply to bathrooms and kitchens, where aluminium shutters handle high moisture levels really well. Homes with bay windows or unusual shapes benefit from custom-fitted plantation shutters. Made-to-measure designs will give a perfect fit and avoid the usual problems that come with standard window treatments. You can also choose from different opening styles like single hinged, double hinged, or bi-fold arrangements. Your choice of material affects both looks and function by a lot. Hardwood shutters show off natural beauty and look great in traditional interiors. Composite shutters mix durability with good looks, making them perfect for modern homes. Aluminium options boost security through their

Plantation shutters add elegance to any home, but many homeowners struggle with proper cleaning techniques. These window treatments need specific cleaning approaches based on their material – wood, faux wood, polywood, vinyl, or plastic, even though they’re easy to maintain. Your shutter’s maintenance is vital, especially when you have them in kitchens and bathrooms where grease and grime build up fast. A simple monthly cleaning routine will extend their lifespan by a lot. White vinegar mixed with water is a great eco-friendly solution to remove stubborn dirt. You’ll find the quickest ways to keep your shutters looking pristine in this piece, along with special techniques for white plantation shutters that show dirt more easily. Quick Assessment Before Cleaning Let me check my plantation shutters really well before I start cleaning them. Getting the full picture of their material and condition helps me pick the quickest way to clean them. Identifying the shutter material My shutters might be made from materials of all types, and each needs its own kind of care. Wood polymer (PVC) shutters are great with moisture and don’t need much upkeep. On top of that, timber plantation shutters give that classic look and work with longer louvres, which means they don’t bow as much in direct sunlight. Aluminium shutters are a great choice too – they’re light and handle water better than the rest. Checking for damage or loose parts A good look now can catch problems early. I first get into the hinges and moving parts to see if they arrange properly. Then I look for: Choosing the right cleaning method Each material and location needs its own cleaning style. Wooden shutters need just a bit of water so they don’t warp. PVC and aluminium shutters can take a more thorough cleaning. Bathroom shutters need special attention because of humidity and soap scum. Kitchen shutters get hit with grease and food spots, so they need good degreasing cleaners. Bedroom and living room shutters just need dust removal and allergy control. Vinegar-based cleaners work great on tough stains without being too harsh. All the same, whatever material you have, stay away from harsh chemicals – they’ll ruin the finish or damage the surface. White plantation shutters need extra attention. They’re like standard timber shutters to maintain, but I skip polishes that might stain them. Gentle cleaners made for each specific material type work best. Good checks and the right cleaning methods keep my plantation shutters looking great and working well for years. Regular checks help me spot issues early, which saves me from bigger headaches later. Safe Cleaning Solutions for Different Materials Natural cleaning solutions are a great way to keep plantation shutters clean without damaging their finish. The right mixture ratios will give a thorough clean and protect the material at the same time. Vinegar-based mixtures White vinegar is an excellent natural cleaner that tackles tough stains and grease. You can make a simple cleaning solution by mixing equal parts white vinegar and water. This mixture works great on greasy surfaces, but make sure to dry the shutters completely afterwards. Wooden shutters need special care, so don’t use vinegar solutions much of either as they might cause discoloration. Instead of applying the solution directly, dampen a soft cloth first to control the moisture better. Natural cleaning options Your shutters can stay pristine without harsh chemicals using these eco-friendly alternatives. Here’s an effective recipe: You can make another powerful natural blend with 20 drops each of lemon and lavender oils mixed in a 50/50 solution of cooled boiled water and vinegar. Lemon cuts through grease naturally, and lavender adds antibacterial properties. Stubborn stains or mould need a stronger mix – one part vinegar to four parts water should do the trick. Remember to test any new cleaning mixture on a small hidden area first to check it won’t harm the finish. Method and Ecover products make ready-made natural alternatives you can find in most supermarkets. These brands use natural ingredients, so you won’t need to worry about toxic chemicals damaging your shutters. Wooden shutters look great with a coat of furniture polish after cleaning. Stay away from moisture-heavy solutions on timber shutters since excess water leads to warping. Regular dusting works best to maintain wooden varieties. PVC kitchen shutters often collect grease and need a mild cleanser. Never use harsh chemicals like bleach, ammonia, or abrasive cleaning agents on your shutters. Clean any residue with a damp cloth after using cleaning solutions. Make sure everything dries completely to prevent moisture damage – this is vital for wooden shutters especially. Step-by-Step Deep Cleaning Guide A good deep clean of plantation shutters needs proper attention to every corner. You can keep them looking pristine without any damage by being organised. Preparing the area The first step is clearing the space around your shutters and putting a drop cloth underneath to catch any debris. You’ll need some basic supplies: a vacuum with brush attachment, microfibre cloths, and a soft-bristled brush. A clean toothbrush comes in handy for those tight corners that are hard to reach. Cleaning technique for best results The best way to clean is from top to bottom so dirt doesn’t fall on areas you’ve already cleaned. Start by using the vacuum’s brush attachment to get rid of loose dust and debris. Mix warm water with a small amount of mild dish soap to create a gentle cleaning solution. Take a barely damp cloth and clean each slat carefully. Focus on: Wooden shutters need extra care – keep the cloth just slightly damp. Adding a bit of white vinegar to your cleaning solution works great for PVC or aluminium shutters and really boosts the results. Drying and finishing touches Grab a dry, lint-free cloth and wipe each slat right after cleaning to avoid water damage. Let nature help by opening windows on sunny days. A nearby fan speeds things up when the weather isn’t cooperating. Wooden shutters might need a tiny bit of timber-specific furniture polish. Here’s