Repainting an old house can be a significant hassle due to challenges like lead paint removal, extensive preparation, and time-intensive processes. While feasible with proper planning, it demands expertise and resources.

Old houses often contain lead-based paint, a major hazard requiring strict safety protocols. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that 38 million U.S. homes built before 1978 may have lead paint. Removing it without certification costs $5–$10 per square foot, adding $2,000–$5,000 to expenses. Sanding and disposal require specialized equipment and trained personnel to avoid health risks. Preparation, including cleaning, repairing, and priming, typically takes 2–4 weeks alone. The entire project spans 4–8 weeks, with costs ranging from $3,000 to $15,000 for a 2,000-square-foot home, per HomeAdvisor data. Structural issues like rot or moisture also delay progress and increase expenses. Despite these hurdles, repainting boosts curb appeal by 5–10%, according to the National Association of Realtors, and improves indoor air quality. While labor-intensive, the investment yields long-term value and health benefits, justifying the effort when handled correctly.