At first glance, painting your own home sounds smart.
You save money. You stay in control. You cross off a weekend project.
But here in New Hampshire—where weather beats down on siding and paint doesn’t forgive mistakes—the real question is this:
Are you saving… or setting yourself up for a costly do-over?
In this article, we break down the real costs, risks, and long-term impacts of DIY vs. hiring professional painters. Whether you’re in Nashua, Manchester, Concord, or a quiet town nearby, this guide is built for New Hampshire homeowners who want results that look great and last.
The Appeal of DIY: Freedom, Cost, and Satisfaction
DIY painting has obvious appeal:
- You skip labor costs.
- You work on your own schedule.
- You get that “I did it myself” satisfaction.
But that’s where the advantages end—especially when dealing with exterior siding, tall ceilings, or full-house interior jobs. A gallon of paint and a roller isn’t enough. Most homeowners underestimate what’s involved: prep work, tools, safety, cleanup, and weather-sensitive timing.
And in New England? The margin for error is smaller.
What Professional Painters Actually Deliver (That DIY Can’t)
1. Expert Prep = Longevity
Flaking old paint, mildew, wood rot, poorly sealed joints — all of this needs fixing before the first brush stroke. Pros know how to address these problems. DIYers usually don’t.
2. Right Tools for the Right Job
From pressure washers and drop cloths to trim-edge taping and sprayers for smooth coats, pros bring gear that most homeowners don’t own (and shouldn’t have to).
3. Paint That Withstands New Hampshire’s Climate
We use top-tier, climate-tested paints that resist cracking, mildew, and fading. Not the stuff that peels after one rough winter.
4. Insurance and Safety
Working on ladders, scaffolding, or dealing with lead paint? That’s liability. Our crew is trained, licensed, and insured. No risk on your shoulders.
5. Speed Without Sacrificing Quality
What might take you three weekends, we handle in two days—with crisp lines, even coats, and zero mess left behind.
DIY Might Be Cheaper—But Only in the Short Term
Let’s look at real costs:
- Materials & Tools: You’ll need caulk, patching compounds, sanding gear, primer, multiple brushes/rollers, tape, drop cloths, and ladders. Most people end up spending far more than expected.
- Mistakes Add Up: Wrong finish? Missed primer? Uneven coats? You’ll repaint sooner.
- Time Is Money: Every hour you spend prepping, painting, cleaning is time not spent with your family—or doing something you enjoy.
- Potential Damage: Drips on floors, spills on trim, injuries from ladders—each mistake carries a price.
When It’s Smart to DIY (And When It’s Not)
Good DIY projects:
- Small touch-ups
- Painting a bedroom wall
- Low-risk, single-day jobs
Hire pros when:
- You’re painting your exterior
- You have high ceilings or tight deadlines
- You want clean, lasting results
- You value your time and peace of mind
Local Knowledge = Better Results in NH Homes
At Reis Painters, we understand New Hampshire’s specific needs:
- Cold winters and hot summers wreak havoc on exterior paint.
- Older homes in towns like Concord or Portsmouth need special care and surface prep.
- We work with HOA standards and understand town-specific building codes.
This isn’t just about paint. It’s about protection, curb appeal, and long-term home value.
Final Word: Your Time, Your Investment, Your Home
Anyone can buy a brush. Few can deliver a flawless, lasting finish that protects your home from New England’s harsh elements.
When the stakes are high, your best move is to partner with a team that knows what they’re doing.
We don’t just paint houses. We restore pride, value, and beauty—one wall, one room, one exterior at a time.
Want a Free Estimate from Local Painters Who Know NH Inside and Out?
We’re Reis Painters—trusted by homeowners across Hillsborough, Rockingham, Merrimack, and Strafford counties.
Website: www.reispainters.net
Email: info@reispainters.net
Phone: (603) 931-5930
Let’s get your home looking exactly the way it should—without the stress, mess, or guesswork.
