In this guide

Cost Factors

Like any painting project, there are several different contributing factors that go into the final cost calculation. The first is the size of the space to be painted. Some kitchens have more wall space than others, even in the same amount of square footage because windows, cabinets, and appliances vary in size and placement.

The number of coats required to paint the room will also impact the cost. For example, a bold red wall will require one coat of dark gray primer ¹, followed by two to three coats of paint, and will cost more than a single coat of cream paint on a wall already painted the same or a similar color. Major color changes will cost more than a refresh.

The condition of the walls and the amount of prep work needed will also impact the cost. If the walls require a lot of patching and sanding ² before painting can begin, this will raise the cost of the project. Likewise, the more moldings and cabinets that need to be taped off, the higher the total cost will likely be.

Measurements

Kitchens are slightly unique when it comes to determining the amount of surface area to be painted. Each wall needs to be measured at its length and width to determine its total square footage. For example, a wall 8’ high and 13’ wide will be approximately 104 square feet, but any windows, doors, cabinets, or appliances will need to be subtracted from this total. While you can get rough measurements yourself, your painter will likely want to measure the space before giving you a final quote based on the particulars of your kitchen.

Prep Work

Kitchens often require a slightly higher degree of prep work than some other rooms. This is partly due to the use of the space and the number of things that may be in it. To start, any appliances, such as refrigerators, not built into the cabinetry should be moved either out of the room or toward the center to allow for easier access. Rolling carts and moveable islands ³ or shelves should also be relocated for the duration.

The walls will often require cleaning, particularly if there is a lot of smoke or grease buildup. Any holes will need to be patched and sanded ² down, and window sills ⁴, baseboards, ceilings, and cabinets will need to be taped off.

Primer

Primer ¹ helps paint adhere better to a new surface and can also help ease the transition from a dark color to a light color or a light color to a dark. For example, if you have a dark gray wall and are moving to a pale blue, a coat of white primer ¹ will help cover the dark paint and make the transition easier.

If you are painting the walls the same color, or similar color as what is already there, a primer ¹ may not be necessary. Always use the same type of primer ¹ as the type of paint you are using; for example, latex primer ¹ with latex paint.

There are three types of primers ¹, each with its own considerations.

Colors

Kitchens can be painted in a full range of colors, although you may find that one works better in your space than another.

When painting small spaces, it’s best to keep the colors light and with a cool tone to help them appear larger. Larger kitchens can handle darker and warmer colors, which can help them appear to be cozier.

If your kitchen is dark, keep the colors light as well, as this will help to lighten and brighten the space. Keep in mind, though, that some light colors may show dirt more easily than others. If your kitchen is a busy space, consider a light tan or pale gray to help hide dirt and smudges more easily.

Kitchen Paint vs Normal Paint

There is no paint known as “kitchen paint,” but there are many paints that are suitable for specific parts of your kitchen. While most people will stick to painting their walls, it is also possible to paint your cabinets, countertops, appliances, and flooring. For each of these areas, you will want to purchase paint made for that specific purpose. This ensures proper adherence, and that the paint will hold up to the use on that area.

For kitchen walls, wall paint that you use in the rest of the home is perfectly suitable.

Types of Paint

There are three general categories for wall paint - latex paint, oil paint, and urethane-based paint. Most homeowners choose to use latex paint, which is easy to mix, comes in many colors, and which is available with low or no VOCs (volatile organic compounds–what you smell after you paint).

Oil- and urethane-based paints are less common for interior use, and in some states have been banned. Oil-based paint, in particular, can be harder to mix and apply, but often gives you richer, longer-lasting results. Urethane-based paints may be used in place of oil paints in areas where oil is banned and is good for high-use surfaces, such as flooring.

Type of Finish

Paints come with several different finishes, ranging from a very flat, matte finish to a bright, glossy finish.

• Flat ($18 per gallon)
• Eggshell ($20 per gallon)
• Satin ($21 per gallon)
• Semi-Gloss ($22 per gallon)
• High-Gloss ($24 per gallon)

In general, kitchens do better with finishes starting at eggshell and moving toward semi-gloss. This is because these finishes are easier to keep clean–the glossier the finish, the easier it is to wipe with a damp cloth. Because kitchens are high-traffic areas that see a lot of food, grease, and smoke, a glossier finish will help ensure that the walls stay cleaner.

Avoid flat and matte finishes in the kitchen, as these will show dirt and food stains faster. High-gloss finishes are also not recommended for walls, as they reflect too much light. Go for a semi-gloss, or satin for a more subdued look, to get the best finish for the kitchen.

Faux finishes are also a possibility for kitchens and include many different decorative looks. They can also be done in any type of paint finish, but can create the looks of stone, tile, or plaster ⁵ on your walls. Keep in mind that these types of finishes are usually costly and will require more care in the long term. The costs for adding a faux finish are usually in addition to the cost of painting the walls a solid color and start at around $5 extra per square foot ⁶.

Labor

Most painters charge by the hour, with an average cost of around $50 per hour for the job, which includes the priming, painting, prep work, and cleanup. Some will also include the cost of the paint in their estimates, while others will either ask that you purchase the paint and have it ready or will charge additional for the paint and other supplies.

In some instances where there is little prep required and the job is easy, painters may charge by the square foot ⁶, with a rate averaging $2-$3 per sq.ft. If you are having areas beyond the walls painted, such as cabinets or appliances, then the hourly charge usually applies.

For a 13’x13’ kitchen needing two coats of paint and prep work to protect cabinets and moldings, you can expect the job to take 12-14 hours, plus the cost of the materials, so the labor portion of the job will be around $600-$650 of the $800 total.

Enhancement and Improvement Costs

Cabinet Painting

Many people painting their kitchens choose to have their cabinets painted as well. This is a more involved job that includes removing the doors and drawers from the cabinets to paint them and the stiles, then replace them. This takes several days to complete and can cost from $1,200 to $7,000 depending on the style of cabinets, the type of paint, and the finish.

Stippling

Stippling is a type of paint technique that creates small dots or speckles over the surface of the wall when finished. It can be very time consuming and is done after the walls have been given a base coat. Expect to pay roughly double if you have this type of effect done.

Wallpaper

Wallpaper is another option for updating your kitchen’s appearance. There are many types of wallpaper that can give your kitchen a range of different looks. Average costs range from $1,000-$1,300.

Remodeling Terms Cheat Sheet

¹ Primer: Preparatory coat applied to materials (drywall, wood, metal, etc.) before painting to ensure paint adhesion, extend paint durability, and help seal and protect the surface to be painted

² Sanding: Process of removing the top surface of a material, such as wood, using sandpaper and/or a specialized sanding machine (for large surface areas)

³ Islands: A kitchen counter that is not attached to walls or other surfaces, and that can be accessed from all sides

⁵ Plaster: A paste composed of sand, water, and either lime, gypsum, or cement, which forms a smooth hard surface on walls, ceilings, and other structures upon drying

⁶ Foot: A support for the foundation of a house that also helps prevent settling. It is typically made of concrete reinforced with rebar, but can also be made of masonry or brick. It is usually built under a heavier part of the house like a wall or column, to distribute the weight of the house over a larger area.