Close-up of a worker repairing water-damaged paint on a wall. The image shows the worker applying primer and paint to a damaged area, with tools and paint supplies visible. The surrounding wall shows signs of previous water damage.

How much does Repairing Water-Damaged Paint cost?

Updated on

Water damage can wreak havoc on your home's paintwork, leading to unsightly blemishes and expensive repairs. The cost of repairing water-damaged paint in the UK can vary significantly, typically ranging from £300 to £1,500. Factors like the extent of the damage, size of the affected area, and materials required all play a role in determining the final bill.

Want to get quotes from local tradespeople?

4.8

Top rated Painters & Decorators

Our Painters & Decorators, are rated 4.8 out of 5 based on 7709 reviews from customers like you.

Quality screening

Easily find vetted and reviewed local tradespeople. Just post your job to get free quotes from tradespeople near you across the UK.

Understanding these costs can help you budget effectively and make informed decisions. Read on for a detailed breakdown of labour, materials, and additional fees to confidently tackle water damage repair in your home.

In this price guide, we will cover the following:

  1. The Cost of Repairing Water-Damaged Paint
  2. Breakdown of Cost of Repairing Water-Damaged Paint
  3. Professional vs. DIY Repair Costs for Water-Damaged Paint
  4. Material Costs for Repairing Water-Damaged Paint
  5. Labour Costs for Repairing Water-Damaged Paint
  6. Ceiling Repair Cost due to Water Damage
  7. Choosing the Right Materials and Techniques
  8. Legal and Safety Considerations
  9. Find a Qualified Professional for Water-Damage Paint Repair

The Cost of Repairing Water-Damaged Paint

Water-damaged paint can cause significant issues in your home, including unsightly stains, peeling paint, and potential mould growth. Addressing this damage promptly is essential to maintain the integrity of your home's surfaces and aesthetics. The cost of repairing water-damaged paint can vary widely, influenced by various factors such as the severity of the damage, the area affected, and the materials and labour required. Below, we break down the primary costs you can expect.

Key Cost Factors for Repairing Water-Damaged Paint

  • Extent of Damage: The size and scope of the affected area will significantly impact the overall cost. Smaller patches may require less effort and material, while larger areas will increase expenses.
  • Materials Needed: This includes the cost of paint, primer, plaster, and sealants, which vary in price based on quality and type.
  • Labour Charges: Fees for professionals such as painters, plasterers, and handypersons can vary, typically ranging from £15 to £35 per hour.
  • Removal of Damaged Material: If underlying materials like plaster or drywall are damaged, removal and replacement costs will be added.
  • Surface Preparation: Proper preparation, including sanding and cleaning, is crucial and can affect the overall cost.

Typical Cost Ranges for Repairing Water-Damaged Paint

Type of RepairCost Range
Small Room (up to 10 m²)£300 - £600
Medium Room (10-20 m²)£600 - £1,000
Large Room (20-30 m²)£1,000 - £1,500
Plaster (per bag)£6 - £12
Primer (per litre)£10 - £20
Paint (per litre)£10 - £30
Painter/Decorator (per hour)£15 - £25
Plasterer (per hour)£20 - £35
General Handyman (per hour)£15 - £30
Transport Fees£10 - £50
Cleaning Costs£50 - £100
Inspection Fees£50 - £150
Extra Repairs£50 - £200

The average cost of repairing water-damaged paint can range between £300 to £1,500, depending on the size of the job and the resources required. For a more precise estimate tailored to your specific needs, it's advisable to seek quotes from local professionals who can assess the situation in detail.

Get a Quote Today

Breakdown of Cost of Repairing Water-Damaged Paint

Several key factors will influence the overall cost of repairing water-damaged paint. For an accurate estimate, it is vital to consider each of these components:

  • Materials (paint, primer, sealant): The cost of materials forms a significant portion of your budget. Quality paint, primers, and sealants are crucial for a durable repair.
  • Labour: Hiring experienced professionals such as painters, plasterers, or handymen will affect the cost based on their hourly rates and the time required.
  • Removal of damaged material: This involves labour and disposal costs for removing peeling or damaged paint and mould or mildew.
  • Surface Preparation: Preparing the surface for repainting includes cleaning, sanding, and sometimes repairing the plaster or drywall beneath the paint. This is essential for ensuring the new paint adheres properly and looks smooth.

These factors collectively determine the total cost of repairing water-damaged paint. Each component needs careful consideration to ensure a high-quality and lasting repair. For detailed cost estimates, it is always advisable to seek multiple quotes from reputable professionals.

Professional vs. DIY Repair Costs for Water Damaged Paint

When addressing the cost of repairing water-damaged paint, one crucial decision you'll face is whether to undertake a DIY project or hire a professional. Both options have their own costs, benefits, and drawbacks.

Cost Component Comparison: DIY vs. Professional Repairs

To give you a clearer idea of what you might expect to spend, here is a detailed comparison table of cost components for DIY and professional repairs:

Cost ComponentDIY Estimated CostProfessional Estimated Cost
Material Costs£70 - £200£150 - £400
Tools and Equipment£30 - £100Included in labour fee
Labour CostsN/A£15 - £35 per hour
Surface Preparation£20 - £50£50 - £100
Total Cost Estimate£120 - £350£300 - £1,500

Pros and Cons: DIY vs. Professional Repairs

Before making your decision, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of each approach.

DIY Repairs:

Pros:

  • Cost Savings: With DIY, you can save significantly on labour costs.
  • Flexibility: You can work at your own pace and schedule.

Cons:

  • Skill Level Required: DIY repairs require some skill and knowledge about the materials and processes involved.
  • Time-Consuming: Tackling this project alone can take a lot of time, especially if you are a beginner.

Professional Repairs:

Pros:

  • Expertise: Professionals come with specialised skills and experience to ensure quality work.
  • Efficiency: Projects are generally completed more quickly than DIY efforts.

Cons:

  • Higher Costs: Hiring a professional is generally more expensive due to labour charges.
  • Scheduling: You’ll need to work around the professional’s availability, which might delay the project.

By carefully considering these aspects, you can decide whether to repair water-damaged paint yourself or hire a professional. Either way, understanding the cost components and weighing the benefits and drawbacks will help you achieve the best results within your budget.

Contact local experts

Material Costs for Repairing Water-Damaged Paint

When addressing water-damaged paint, selecting suitable materials is crucial. This ensures a visually appealing finish and durable protection against future damage. Material costs can vary, so here's a comprehensive breakdown of what you might expect:

Detailed Table with Types of Materials + Cost

MaterialDescriptionRequirementCost (Price Range)
PlasterUsed for repairing damaged walls and ceilings before repaintingEssential for resurfacing damaged areas£6 - £12 per bag
PrimerProvides a base layer that enhances paint adherenceCritical for sealing and preparing surfaces£10 - £20 per litre
PaintThe final coating that gives a fresh lookNeeded for aesthetic appeal and protection£10 - £30 per litre
SealantPrevents moisture from penetrating the paint layersImportant for high-moisture areas like bathrooms£20 - £50 per unit
SandpaperUsed for smoothing the surface before applying paintNecessary for surface preparation£5 - £15 per pack
DetergentCleans the surfaces to remove mould and mildew before paintingEssential for eliminating mould spores£5 - £10 per bottle

Types of Paint and Their Costs

Different types of paints serve various purposes. Here are common choices suitable for repairing water-damaged areas:

Water-based Paint: Easy to apply and quick-drying; offers reasonable moisture resistance.

  • Cost: £12 - £25 per litre

Oil-based Paint: Durable with excellent coverage; used in areas exposed to heavy moisture.

  • Cost: £15 - £30 per litre

Mould-Resistant Paint: Specifically formulated to resist mould growth, ideal for bathrooms and kitchens.

  • Cost: £20 - £35 per litre

Primer and Sealant Costs

Primers and sealants are pivotal in ensuring a high-quality finish and preventing future water damage. Below are essential primers and sealants, along with their costs:

Universal Primer: Ensuring paint adherence for various surfaces.

  • Cost: £10 - £20 per litre

Stain-blocking Primer: Prevents water stains from bleeding through new paint.

  • Cost: £12 - £25 per litre

Silicone Sealant: Used for sealing joints and edges in high-moisture areas, preventing leaks.

  • Cost: £5 - £15 per tube

Acrylic Sealant: Versatile and paintable, used for sealing gaps and cracks.

  • Cost: £3 - £10 per tube

Whether you tackle the repair yourself or hire a professional, choosing the right materials is essential for long-lasting results. Always factor in quality and suitability to ensure the repaired area withstands future moisture exposure and maintains its appearance.

Labour Costs for Repairing Water-Damaged Paint

Repairing water-damaged paint often involves several tradespeople, each with their respective expertise and hourly rates.

Types of Professionals and Their Hourly Rates

Here are the typical professionals you may need for this type of repair and their cost ranges:

Painter/Decorator: These professionals specialise in paintwork and can ensure that the finish is smooth and visually appealing.

  • Hourly Rate: £15 - £25 per hour

Plasterer: If the water damage has affected the underlying plaster or drywall, a plasterer will be necessary to repair and prepare the surface for painting.

  • Hourly Rate: £20 - £35 per hour

General Handyman: A handyman can be a cost-effective choice for minor repairs or tasks that fall outside the specialities of painters or plasterers.

  • Hourly Rate: £15 - £30 per hour

Additional Labour Costs

Transport Fees: When tradespeople need to travel a considerable distance, you might incur additional costs.

  • Estimated Cost: £10 - £50

Cleaning Costs: After the paint and plaster work is done, a thorough clean-up might be required to remove debris and dust.

  • Estimated Cost: £50 - £100

Inspection Fees: A professional inspection might be necessary to accurately assess the extent of the water damage and identify any hidden issues.

  • Estimated Cost: £50 - £150

Understanding these labour costs will help you plan and allocate your budget more effectively, ensuring a successful and efficient repair of water-damaged paint. For a tailored quotation, always consult with local professionals, who can offer specific insights and pricing.

Ceiling Repair Cost due to Water Damage

Ceiling repair costs due to water damage can vary widely based on the severity of the damage and the materials needed. Water damage can lead to issues such as stains, mould growth, and sagging materials. Addressing these issues promptly is crucial to prevent further deterioration and ensure your ceiling returns to its original condition. Here is an overview of the typical costs involved in ceiling repair due to water damage.

  • Ceiling Replacement: If the water damage is extensive, you may need to replace the entire ceiling. This can cost between £400 and £1,200, depending on the ceiling size and the materials used.
  • Plaster Repair: For smaller water-damaged areas, plaster repair may be sufficient. This generally costs between £200 and £500.
  • Painting and Finish: Once the ceiling has been repaired, it will need repainting and finishing. This can cost from £100 to £300, depending on the ceiling size and the quality of the paint used.
  • Mould Remediation: If mould has set in due to water damage, professional remediation may be necessary. These services typically cost between £300 and £800.
  • Drywall Repair: If the drywall has been damaged, replacing sections of drywall can cost £100 to £250 per section

Additional Costs to Consider

When repairing water-damaged paint, it's crucial to be mindful of additional costs that may arise beyond the primary expenses for materials and labour. Understanding these potential extra costs can help you better prepare for the project and avoid surprises.

Surface Preparation Costs

Preparing the surface properly before applying new paint is essential for a high-quality finish and long-lasting repairs. Here are some associated costs for thorough surface preparation:

  • Removing old paint Necessary if the existing paint is severely damaged or peeling. Cost: £20 - £50
  • Cleaning mould/mildew: It is important to prevent future issues and ensure a smooth surface. Cost: £50 - £100
  • Sanding surfaces: To smooth out irregularities and improve paint adhesion. Cost: £15 - £30

Post-Repair Costs: Inspections and Touch-Ups

After the main repair work is complete, additional inspections and touch-ups might be required to ensure everything is in top condition:

  • Professional inspections: Hiring a professional to inspect the completed work can identify any remaining issues. Cost: £50 - £150
  • Touch-up painting: Small corrections to ensure a uniform appearance. Cost: £20 - £50

These costs are an essential part of achieving a professional and durable repair.

Cleaning and Disposal Costs

Once the repair job is done, there may be a need for comprehensive cleaning and disposal of waste materials:

  • Cleaning Costs: If an extensive cleaning is necessary to clear up debris and dust from the repair work. Cost: £50 - £100
  • Disposal Fees: For properly disposing of old materials and debris. Cost: £10 - £30

Including these costs in your repair budget will help ensure a smooth process from start to finish.

Common Ceiling Water Damage Issues

Water damage to ceilings can manifest in various ways. Addressing these issues promptly can save time and money in the long run.

  • Stains: Water stains are often the first visible sign of water damage. These typically appear as yellow or brown patches.
  • Mould Growth: Mould can develop quickly in damp conditions, posing health risks and requiring professional treatment.
  • Sagging Materials: Prolonged water exposure can cause ceiling materials to sag or even collapse, requiring immediate repair to ensure safety.

For precise estimates, always consult with local professionals and obtain multiple quotes.

Get a Quote Today

Choosing the Right Materials and Techniques

Selecting the right materials and techniques for repairing water-damaged paint ensures longevity and effectiveness. The correct choices improve the quality of repair and help mitigate future water damage. Here's an in-depth look at the options and their associated costs.

Detailed Comparison of Techniques

TechniqueDescriptionRecommended UseBenefitCost (Price Range)
PatchingInvolves fixing small damaged areas with a specific patching compound.Small, localised damagesQuick and cost-effective£10 - £50 per patch
Full RepaintingComplete repainting after repairing the underlying damage.Extensive damage or for aesthetic uniformityEnsures a consistent finish£300 - £1,500 per room
Special SealantsUse of sealants and primers to protect against future water damage.Preparing surfacesProtects and prolongs paint lifespan£20 - £70 per litre

Comparison of Repair Techniques

Different repair techniques offer unique benefits and have varying costs:

  • Patching: Ideal for minor, localised damages. It is quick, minimally invasive, and cost-effective.
  • Full Repainting: Best for extensive damage or when wanting a uniform aesthetic finish. Though more expensive, it ensures thorough repair and new paint consistency.
  • Special Sealants/Primers: Used to prepare surfaces, preventing future damage. These create a protective barrier, enhancing the longevity of the repair.

Legal and Safety Considerations

Adhering to legal and safety regulations is essential when undertaking repairs to avoid potential issues down the line.

  • Building Regulations: Ensure all repairs meet local building codes and standards.
  • Health and Safety Standards: Follow guidelines to protect against hazards associated with water damage, such as mould.
  • Insurance Requirements: Check with your insurer to see if specific materials or techniques are needed to maintain coverage.
  • Professional Accreditation: Verify that any hired professionals hold the necessary licenses and certifications.
  • Disposal Rules: To comply with local environmental regulations, safely dispose of hazardous materials like mould-infested drywall.

By carefully choosing appropriate materials and techniques and adhering to legal and safety standards, you can ensure that your water damage repair is effective and long-lasting.

Find a Qualified Professional for Water-Damage Paint Repair

Finding the right professional to repair water-damaged paint is essential to ensuring quality work and long-lasting results. When selecting a tradesperson, you need someone with the right qualifications and experience to handle the complexity of water damage repairs effectively.

Key Qualifications and Certifications to Look For:

  • Contractor Licensing: Ensure the professional holds the necessary licenses to perform repair work. Licensing indicates that the contractor adheres to local building regulations and standards.
  • Customer Reviews: Look for professionals with positive feedback from previous clients. Reviews can provide insights into the quality of work, reliability, and customer service.
  • Experience with Water Damage Repair: Choose a professional with specific experience dealing with water damage. They will understand the intricacies involved in repairing not just the paint but also the underlying structures affected by water.
  • Certifications: Additional certifications in water damage restoration can be a significant advantage. These certifications often indicate higher expertise and commitment to the profession.

It's advisable to obtain multiple quotes and compare them to ensure you are getting the best service for the cost.

Get Quotes for Your Water Damage Repair

On MyBuilder, you can find top-rated painter and decorator tradespeople ready to restore your home to its former glory. Post your job today and get matched with experienced professionals who understand the intricacies of water damage paint repair. Don't let water damage linger—find the perfect painter and decorator now.