Painting a house in Switzerland is more than just a beauty treatment. It is a valuable investment in the protection and preservation of the property. A fresh coat of paint not only protects the façade from wind and weather but also ensures a well-kept overall impression. But what costs can one expect? That depends on various factors: the size of the house, the current condition of the walls, the choice of colors, and possible additional services. In this guide, you will find a comprehensive overview of the most important cost factors so that you can plan your project well from the start.

Factors that influence the cost of painting a house in Switzerland

The size of the house plays an important role in determining the total costs. Larger houses require more material, labor, and time, which makes them more expensive.

• Small apartments (1-2 rooms): Lower costs due to fewer walls and ceilings.
• Medium-sized houses (3-5 rooms): Medium costs, as more paint and labor are needed.
• Large houses (from 5 rooms or multiple floors): Higher costs due to the large area and possibly necessary scaffolding.

Before painting, the walls must be cleaned, cracks repaired, and a primer applied. If the wall condition is poor, the costs increase due to additional labor.

• Minor wall repairs: Small cracks or holes can cause additional costs, but are usually affordable.
• Major wall damage: Large holes, flaking paint, or water damage require more intensive work, which increases the costs.
• Removing wallpaper: This increases the labor effort and thus also the costs.

The type of paint used has a direct impact on the total costs. High-quality paints offer better durability and coverage but are more expensive.

• Standard latex or acrylic paints: More affordable, but often require multiple coats.
• Premium or environmentally friendly paints: Higher costs, but offer longer durability and environmental benefits.
• Special paints (mold protection, fire-resistant, or waterproof): More expensive due to the additional protective properties.

The number of required coats depends on the condition of the walls, the color change, and the type of paint.

• Dark to light: Requires several coats to completely cover the previous color.
• Walls with stains or rough texture: Absorb more paint and may require additional coats.
• Glossy or semi-matte surfaces: Often need more coats to achieve even coverage.

Additional preparations and services can increase the total costs of painting.

• Wall cleaning and priming: Prepares the surface so that the paint adheres better.
• Plastering or patching holes: Important for a smooth, professional result.
• Scaffolding rental: Necessary for multi-story houses and can cause significant additional costs.
• Facade cleaning: Removes dirt and deposits before painting.

In Switzerland, painters charge either by the hour or by square meter.

• Hourly rates: Range between CHF 60 and CHF 100 per hour, depending on experience and complexity of the project.
• Square meter prices: Usually between CHF 18 and CHF 45, depending on the type of surface and the desired finish.

What does painting interior rooms cost in Switzerland?

If you are thinking about having your interior rooms freshly painted, you should know that the costs can vary greatly depending on the circumstances. Important factors include the size of the rooms, how many coats of paint are needed, and whether the ceilings are also part of the project. Larger rooms mean more material and more labor time, which naturally affects the price. If you are also planning a move while painting, a moving company can help you transport the furniture safely and quickly so that painting goes smoothly and without interruptions. To help you plan better, here is an overview of what painting rooms of different sizes in Switzerland approximately costs:

Small rooms (approx. 10–15 square meters)

For painting a smaller room, you should expect around CHF 540 if only the walls are done. If the ceiling is included, the price can rise to up to CHF 750. The exact amount depends on the condition of the walls, which colors you choose, and whether additional work is necessary – for example, repairing cracks or applying a primer. If several coats are needed, this can slightly increase the price.

Medium-sized rooms (approx. 16–20 square meters)

A medium-sized room usually costs around CHF 680 for wall painting only. If you also want the ceiling painted, the price is about CHF 1,200. Especially with color changes – for example, from a dark to a lighter tone – two coats are often necessary to ensure even coverage. Possible repairs or special requests such as effect paints or special surface treatments can also have an additional impact.

Large rooms (from 25 square meters)

The larger the room, the more complex it becomes. Here, the costs usually start at CHF 1,200 – this is the price for painting the walls. If the ceiling is also to be redone, or if it is a room with particularly high ceilings, stucco decorations, or textured walls, the price may be correspondingly higher. Painters often recommend high-quality paints or additional coats of paint in such cases so that the result stays beautiful for a long time and is also durable.

Tip: Always ask for a transparent cost estimate! That way, you know exactly which services are included in the offer – and which might be added later.

Costs for painting the outside of a house in Switzerland

Basic painting of the façade

• Painting the façade of a house costs between CHF 27 and CHF 45 per square meter.
• The final price depends on the condition of the exterior walls and the paint used.

Cleaning and repainting the façade

• If additional cleaning is necessary before painting, the costs range between CHF 35 and CHF 60 per square meter.
• This includes washing, priming, and repainting for a long-lasting finish.

Complete façade renovation with intensive priming

• If the façade needs extensive priming and restoration, the total costs for a 100-square meter area range between CHF 4,500 and CHF 6,000.

How to Save Money on House Painting Costs in Switzerland

1. Get multiple quotes from different painters

One of the best ways to save money when painting a house in Switzerland is by comparing prices from different painting companies. Ask for quotes from at least three professionals to understand the average market price. Look for painters who offer clear pricing and detailed cost breakdowns. Avoid choosing the cheapest option without checking reviews and previous work, as low prices can mean lower quality. Sometimes, negotiating with painters can lead to discounts or bundle offers that help reduce the overall cost.

2. Do some prep work yourself

Reducing labor costs is an easy way to lower printing expenses. Many painters charge extra for moving furniture, cleaning walls, or fixing small cracks. Homeowners can do these tasks themselves to save money. Before the painters arrive, clear the rooms, take down picture frames and curtains, and clean the walls from dust and dirt. If there are small cracks or holes, use filler and sandpaper to smooth them out. Preparing the surfaces in advance helps painters start right away, saving time and labor costs.

3. Choose budget-friendly paint

Picking the right paint helps balance cost and quality. While premium paints last longer, they can be very expensive. Mid-range paints often offer a good mix of affordability and performance, making them a smart choice for budget-conscious homeowners. Avoid very cheap paints, as they may need more coats and frequent touch-ups, increasing costs over time. Talking to experts can help you choose the best paint for different surfaces. Some brands also offer discounts on bulk purchases, so buying all the paint at once can help save money.

4. Plan your painting project during the off-season

In Switzerland, painters are busiest in warmer months when outdoor renovations are common. During the off-season, usually in autumn and winter, many painters offer lower prices due to less demand. Booking your painting project in these months can lead to big savings. Some painters even offer special discounts or bundle deals for customers who schedule projects during slow periods. Plan ahead and confirm availability early to get the best prices. Plus, indoor painting in colder months can still work well, since windows can be opened for ventilation.

5. Combine painting with other renovations

If your home needs other updates, combining services can be cost-effective. Many contractors offer discounts when the painting is bundled with related work like wall repairs, insulation, or flooring upgrades. Instead of hiring different pros separately, working with one contractor for multiple jobs can lead to better prices and lower labor costs. It also helps all the work stay on schedule, avoiding delays or do-overs. If you’re planning bigger renovations, talk to contractors about package deals to save money and time.

Conclusion

The cost of painting a house in Switzerland can vary widely. It depends on things like the size of the building, wall condition, paint type, and painter’s labor fees. On average, the total cost of painting a house ranges between CHF 1,500 and CHF 6,500. To get good value, it is wise to gather and compare quotes from professional painters. Selecting a high-quality yet affordable paint also aids in saving money over time while yielding better results. One more tip: get your house painted during the off-season! Many painters offer lower rates then. A new coat of paint is a great investment. It makes your home look fresh and protects it from weather and wear. With good planning and the right partner, your project can be stress-free and budget-friendly.

FAQs

How much does it cost to paint a house per square meter in Switzerland?

It usually costs between CHF 18 and CHF 45 per square meter, depending on the paint type, labor fees, and wall condition.

What’s the average hourly rate for a painter in Switzerland?

Professional painters typically charge between CHF 60 and CHF 100 per hour, depending on their experience and project complexity.

How much does it cost to paint the exterior of a house?

Exterior painting costs range from CHF 27 to CHF 45 per square meter. Extra costs may apply for cleaning, scaffolding, and priming.

How long does it take to paint a house?

It depends on the house size and the work needed:

• Interior (3-room house): 4–7 days
• Exterior: 7–14 days, including prep and drying time

What are the best paint brands in Switzerland?

Popular brands include:

• Farrow & Ball
• Sigma Coatings
• Caparol
• Sto Paints

Can I paint my house myself to save money?

Painting yourself can reduce costs, but it requires the right tools, time, and skills. Poor painting can lead to uneven surfaces, peeling paint, and higher long-term costs.