How Much Does Painting & Decorating Cost in Ireland?
Painting and decorating is one of the most cost-effective ways to transform your home. Whether you need a single room refreshed or your entire house painted, here's what Irish painters charge in 2026.
These figures are researched Irish market estimates for budgeting. Costs vary by project scope, materials and county; get at least three written quotes before starting work.
Typical painters & decorators costs
- Single bedroom (walls + ceiling): €300–€600 — 2 coats, excludes materials
- Living room (walls + ceiling): €400–€800 — Standard 14–18 sqm room
- Full 3-bed house interior: €3,000–€6,000 — All rooms, excludes kitchen and bathrooms typically
- External house painting (semi-detached): €2,000–€5,000 — Masonry paint, full prep
- Wallpaper hanging (per roll): €25–€50 — Labour only per roll hung
- Painter day rate: €220–€350 — Experienced painter, labour only
What affects the cost?
- Prep work required — bare plaster, old wallpaper removal, or poor existing surfaces add cost
- Number of coats — some surfaces require 3 coats for a good finish
- Paint quality — budget vs premium paints affect the final price
- Height of ceilings — rooms with high ceilings require more time and potentially scaffolding
- Internal vs external — external painting requires more prep and weatherproof paint
- Access — external painting on a tall house may require scaffolding at additional cost
Tips before hiring
- Clear the room and remove furniture before the painter arrives to save on their time
- Ask whether the painter will supply paint or if you need to purchase separately
- Premium paint costs more but covers better and lasts longer — worth the extra investment
- Get quotes that specify the number of coats included — not all quotes are like-for-like
Frequently asked questions
- How long does it take to paint a 3-bedroom house in Ireland? A full interior repaint of a 3-bedroom semi-detached house typically takes a professional painter 5–8 days, depending on the level of prep required and the number of coats.
- How much does it cost to paint a room in Ireland? A typical bedroom costs €300–€600 in labour to paint (walls and ceiling). A larger living room costs €400–€800. These prices generally exclude materials — add €50–€150 for quality paint.
- Should I supply my own paint or let the painter supply it? Either option works. If you supply your own paint, make sure you have the right quantity and type. Your painter can advise on how many litres you need. Some painters prefer to supply paint as they know which products give the best results.