To figure out how much exterior paint you really need, start by calculating your home’s paintable surface area: multiply the perimeter by the height and subtract about 10–15% for windows and doors. Keep in mind, you may have unpaintable surface area like brick, which won't count in your calculations.  Most exterior paints cover roughly 250–400 square feet per gallon per coat, but quality makes a difference. Builder-grade paint tends to be thinner and may only cover 250–300 square feet per gallon, sometimes requiring heavier application or even an extra coat. Mid-tier products like Sherwin-Williams SuperPaint typically cover around 300–350 square feet per gallon with solid durability, while premium options like Sherwin-WIlliams Duration often provide better hide, thicker coverage, and closer to 350–400 square feet per gallon. Although premium paint costs more upfront, its improved coverage and longer lifespan can mean buying fewer gallons over time and repainting less often. It provides a better protective layer against weather and moisture. Additionally, if you are switching colors (like a trim paint or an accent color) then you will need to calculate that as well, and round up to the nearest gallon for both paints. If you need an expert opinion, give us a call or click the button above. Unlike many painters and painting companies, Rock Hill Painting takes actual measurements of your home. Less guesswork, less waste on the projects and we can keep your costs down while still delivering unbeatable quality in our work. (512) 578-9172 or click our links (literally all over this website).

Updating kitchen cabinets yourself can dramatically improve your kitchen without the cost of full replacement. The key to a professional result is preparation, proper products, and controlled application. If you have the time, skills, and desire to follow the steps below, it can help you achieve a near-professional finish. If it sounds like too much, or you just want a professional quote, then give us a call: (512) 578-9172

P.S. That is my actual wife and co-owner, Stephanie, in the photo back before we even had Rock Hill Painting. 

1. Evaluate Your Cabinets

Before starting, determine what you’re working with:

• Solid wood – Ideal for sanding and repainting. Coating with a grain filler like AquaCoat is in style now!

• MDF or painted cabinets – Very workable with proper prep.

• Laminate/thermofoil – Requires specialty primer for adhesion.

If cabinets are structurally sound, refinishing is typically far more cost-effective than replacing.

2. Remove Doors and Hardware

• Label each door and hinge location.

• Remove handles, hinges, and drawer fronts.

• Set up a clean, dust-controlled workspace.
  
  

Keeping everything organized prevents installation headaches later.

3. Clean Thoroughly

Kitchen cabinets accumulate grease and residue.

• Use a degreaser (TSP substitute works well) or Dawn dish soap.

• Gently scrub all surfaces.

• "Rinse" with a damp cloth and allow to dry completely.
  
  

Paint will not bond to grease.

4. Sand for Adhesion

Light sanding is essential—even on previously painted surfaces.

• Use 120–150 grit for scuff sanding.

• Smooth with 180–220 grit.

• Vacuum or wipe with a microfiber rag (NOT a tack-cloth. Some have oils that will cause paint failure.)
  
  

You are creating mechanical adhesion, not removing all existing finish.

5. Prime Correctly

Primer is critical for durability.

• Use bonding primer for laminate.

• Use stain-blocking primer for wood with knots (like a BINZ Shellac which will block the tannins from soaking through).

• Spray or roll thin, even coats.

• Lightly sand between coats (220 grit).
  
  

Allow full dry time per manufacturer instructions.

6. Apply Cabinet-Grade Paint

Choose a durable enamel designed for trim and cabinets.

• Use a high-quality 4” microfiber or foam roller for smooth finishes.

• For best results, use an HVLP sprayer.

• Apply thin coats.

• Sand lightly between coats.

• Apply 2 coats minimum (sometimes 3 for light colors over dark).
  
  

Avoid rushing recoat times—curing is different from dry-to-touch.

7. Cure Before Reinstalling

Cabinet enamel may feel dry within hours but often needs:

• 5–7 days before light use

• Up to 30 days for full cure

• Some new products (Sherwin-Williams Gallery, specifically) can fully cure in ONE HOUR! (I know, right!)
  
  

Reinstall hardware carefully to avoid dents or scratches.

8. Upgrade Hardware (Optional)

New handles or knobs can modernize cabinets instantly. Measure hole spacing before purchasing replacements.

Pro Tips for a Professional Finish

• Control dust—most flaws come from contamination.

• Work horizontally when possible (doors laid flat).

• Avoid thick coats—they cause drips and long cure times.

• Use new rollers for final coats.

• Maintain consistent lighting to spot imperfections.

Expected Cost Savings

DIY refinishing typically costs:

• $300–$800 in materials for an average kitchen
  
  

Professional refinishing:

• $3,000–$7,000+
  
  

Time investment: 4–7 full days depending on kitchen size.

DIY cabinet refinishing is labor-intensive but achievable with patience and proper technique. The difference between amateur and professional results lies in preparation, product selection, and thin, controlled application.

Painting a house may seem like a straightforward way to refresh your space, but estimating the true cost requires more than just picking out a color. Whether you’re painting the interior or exterior, understanding the square footage, materials, and labor involved will help you budget realistically—and avoid surprises.

The first step is calculating the paintable area. For interiors, measure the perimeter of each room and multiply by the ceiling height to determine wall square footage. For exteriors, measure the home’s perimeter and multiply by its height, subtracting space for windows and doors. Most paint covers between 250 and 400 square feet per gallon, and most projects require two coats. Dividing your total square footage by average coverage (about 350 square feet per gallon) gives you a rough estimate of how much paint you’ll need.

Paint prices vary widely. Budget options may cost $25–$40 per gallon, while premium brands can exceed $70 per gallon, but do a better job of protecting your home. In addition to paint, you’ll need primer (on any bare substrate, especially outside) and supplies like brushes, rollers, drop cloths, painter’s tape, trays, extension poles, ladders, and possibly scaffolding for exterior work. These materials alone can add several hundred dollars to a project. 

If you hire professionals, labor is typically the largest expense. Interior painting often ranges from $3 to $7 per square foot (of paintable surface), while exterior jobs may fall between $3.50 and $6 per square foot (of paintable surface).

While DIY painting can appear to save money, it’s important to consider what it truly involves. Painting a house is physically demanding and time-consuming. Proper surface preparation—cleaning, sanding, patching holes, repairing drywall, scraping old paint—is essential for a durable finish. Achieving clean lines, even coverage, and smooth finishes requires technique and experience. Many homeowners underestimate the tools needed, such as quality brushes and rollers, tall ladders, safety equipment, and possibly power sanders or sprayers (to clean the outside of the home). Mistakes can lead to uneven coats, visible brush marks, peeling paint, or the need to repaint sooner than expected. For an exterior paint job, this could also lead to damage form the harsh central Texas elements. 

In short, estimating the cost of painting a house means accounting for materials, labor, preparation, and the value of your own time and skill. It takes a lot of work to get right, even if you do already have a basic understanding of paint and labor pricing. 

P.S. If you want to skip this headache, or you just need someone to talk through it with you, or you don't even know where to start then give us a call or click the link above. We perform quality residential painting, with the right materials and processes to protect your investment. Get a free estimate today: (512) 578-9172.