Your home is your biggest investment. Whether you're refreshing tired interiors, protecting your weatherboards from Wellington's harsh elements, or preparing to sell, professional residential painting delivers lasting value that DIY simply can't match.
Wellington Decorators specialises in comprehensive residential painting services across the Wellington region. As Registered Master Painters and certified Resene Eco Decorators, we combine technical expertise with premium materials to deliver exceptional results backed by a 5-year workmanship guarantee.
Why Choose Professional Residential Painters?
Quality That Lasts
Professional painters don't just apply paint—we prepare surfaces properly, choose the right products for Wellington conditions, and apply coatings that endure. The difference between a professional job and DIY becomes obvious within 2-3 years.
Time and Efficiency
What takes homeowners 4-6 weekends, professionals complete in 5-10 days. We have the equipment, experience, and team size to work efficiently without compromising quality.
Safety and Compliance
Height work is dangerous. We carry full public liability insurance, use certified scaffolding, and follow strict health and safety protocols. You avoid the risks and liability of DIY accidents.
Proper Surface Preparation
The secret to long-lasting paint? Preparation. We invest 50-60% of project time in prep—scraping, sanding, filling, priming, treating mould, repairing damage. This foundation ensures your paint adheres properly and resists Wellington weather.
Warranty Protection
Our 5-year workmanship guarantee, backed by Registered Master Painters certification, gives you peace of mind. If issues arise, we fix them. DIY projects offer no such protection.
Access to Trade Products
As a Resene Eco Decorator, we access premium trade-only products not available to the public. These professional-grade paints offer superior coverage, durability, and weather resistance compared to retail options.
Our 6 Residential Painting Services
1. Interior House Painting
Transform your living spaces with fresh, expertly applied colour. Our interior painting service covers:
What We Paint:
- Living rooms, dining rooms, open-plan areas
- Bedrooms and guest rooms
- Kitchens (walls and cabinetry)
- Bathrooms (specialised moisture-resistant systems)
- Hallways, stairwells, and landings
- Ceilings throughout
- Skirting boards, architraves, and trim
Our Interior Process:
- Furniture protection and floor covering
- Filling cracks, holes, and imperfections
- Light sanding for smooth finish
- Undercoat application where needed
- Two premium topcoats for durability
- Sharp, clean cutting lines
- Complete post-job cleanup
Why It Matters:
Interior painting isn't just aesthetics—it's about creating healthy, comfortable spaces. We use low-VOC Resene paints that are safe for families, dry quickly, and resist mould growth in Wellington's humid conditions.
Typical Timeline: 5-8 days for a 3-bedroom home
Learn more about Interior House Painting →
2. Exterior House Painting
Protect your home's exterior from Wellington's wind, rain, and UV exposure while boosting kerb appeal and property value.
What We Paint:
- Weatherboard cladding
- Brick and plaster surfaces
- Fibre cement (Linea, HardiePlank)
- Stucco and roughcast
- Window frames and joinery
- Fascia, bargeboards, and soffits
- Garage doors and exterior trim
Our Exterior Process:
- Comprehensive property assessment
- Waterblasting to remove dirt, mould, and loose paint
- Scraping and sanding deteriorated areas
- Rot repair and timber treatment
- Gap filling and caulking
- Premium primer on bare surfaces
- Two topcoats of weather-resistant paint
Wellington-Specific Expertise:
We understand coastal salt spray, wind exposure, and UV damage. Our paint selection and application techniques are specifically designed for Wellington's microclimate variations—from sheltered Karori valleys to exposed Brooklyn hilltops.
Typical Timeline: 7-12 days for a 3-bedroom home (weather dependent)
Learn more about Exterior House Painting →
3. Roof Painting
Extend your roof's lifespan, improve thermal efficiency, and prevent leaks with professional roof painting and coating systems.
Roof Types We Paint:
- Coloursteel and metal roofs
- Concrete tile roofs
- Terracotta tile roofs
- Corrugated iron roofs
Our Roof Painting Process:
- Safety setup (harnesses, guard rails, scaffolding)
- High-pressure waterblasting
- Moss and lichen treatment
- Rust treatment on metal roofs
- Gutter and downpipe cleaning
- Roof coating primer
- Two topcoats of UV-resistant roof paint
- Gutter and downpipe painting
Benefits of Roof Painting:
- Waterproofing: Seals minor imperfections preventing leaks
- Energy efficiency: Reflective coatings reduce heat absorption
- Rust prevention: Protects metal from Wellington's coastal air
- Resale value: Fresh roof adds $15,000-$30,000 to property value
- Cost savings: Extends roof life by 10-15 years, delaying replacement
Typical Timeline: 3-6 days depending on roof size and complexity
Learn more about Roof Painting →
4. Paint Stripping
When paint has deteriorated beyond repair, professional stripping provides a clean slate for lasting results.
When Paint Stripping Is Needed:
- Heavy flaking, bubbling, or peeling
- Too many paint layers (4+ coats) trapping moisture
- Lead paint removal (common in pre-1980s homes)
- Heritage restoration requiring authentic finishes
- Timber preparation for staining
Our Stripping Methods:
- Heat gun removal: For weatherboards and timber joinery
- Chemical stripping: For delicate heritage timber and intricate mouldings
- Media blasting: For large weatherboard areas, brick, and concrete
- Manual scraping: For targeted areas and sensitive surfaces
Why Professional Stripping Matters:
DIY stripping is labour-intensive, inconsistent, and risky (especially with lead paint). We have industrial equipment, safety gear, and disposal processes to strip efficiently and safely.
Post-Stripping Treatment:
After stripping, we sand smooth, treat bare timber with preservatives, prime, and repaint using premium systems suited to your home.
Typical Timeline: 2-5 days for targeted areas, 10-20 days for whole-house stripping
Learn more about Paint Stripping →
5. Plastering & Gib Stopping
Perfect walls and ceilings start with proper gib stopping and plastering. We repair, smooth, and prepare surfaces for flawless paint finishes.
Services Offered:
- Crack repair in walls and ceilings
- Earthquake damage remediation
- New gib board installation
- Patching holes and dents
- Textured ceiling removal (popcorn ceiling)
- Skim coating entire rooms
- Corner bead installation and finishing
Our Plastering Process:
- Assessment of damage and underlying issues
- Structural repair if required
- Gib compound application in layers
- Sanding between coats for smoothness
- Final finish sanding
- Primer application before painting
Common Wellington Issues We Fix:
- Settlement cracks in older homes
- Earthquake-induced wall and ceiling damage
- Moisture damage from leaks
- Poor previous workmanship
- Nail pops and joint separation
Why It's Critical:
Paint only looks as good as the surface beneath. Skipping proper gib stopping results in visible imperfections, shadowing, and uneven finishes—especially in direct sunlight.
Typical Timeline: 1-3 days for minor repairs, 5-10 days for whole-home plastering
Learn more about Plastering & Gib Stopping →
6. Wood Staining & Finishing
Enhance the natural beauty of timber with professional staining and protective finishes.
What We Stain:
- Decks and outdoor entertaining areas
- Timber fences and gates
- Interior exposed beams and ceilings
- Wooden staircases and handrails
- Timber furniture and cabinetry
- Pergolas and garden structures
Stain Types Available:
- Transparent stains: Show natural wood grain, minimal colour
- Semi-transparent: Add colour while revealing grain texture
- Solid stains: Opaque colour, wood texture visible
- Oils and sealers: Natural protection for decks and outdoor timber
Our Staining Process:
- Timber cleaning and preparation
- Sanding to open grain and remove previous finishes
- Stain application (brush, roller, or spray)
- Multiple coats for depth and protection
- Topcoat sealer for durability and UV resistance
Wellington Weather Considerations:
Outdoor timber faces constant assault from rain, UV, and wind. We use marine-grade stains and sealers specifically formulated for New Zealand coastal conditions, ensuring your deck or fence lasts years longer.
Maintenance:
Stained timber requires re-coating every 2-4 years depending on exposure. We offer maintenance packages to keep your timber looking fresh and protected.
Typical Timeline: 2-5 days depending on project size
Learn more about Wood Staining →
Our Residential Painting Process: What to Expect
We've refined our process over thousands of Wellington homes. Here's exactly what happens when you work with Wellington Decorators:
Step 1: Initial Consultation (Free)
We visit your property to:
- Assess current condition and identify issues
- Discuss your vision, colour preferences, and goals
- Provide expert recommendations on products and techniques
- Answer all your questions
- Take measurements and photos
Duration: 30-60 minutes
No obligation: This consultation is completely free with no pressure to proceed.
Step 2: Detailed Written Quote
Within 2-3 business days, you'll receive:
- Itemised breakdown of all costs (labour, materials, equipment)
- Scope of work detailing exactly what's included
- Paint product specifications (brand, line, colours)
- Estimated timeline with start and completion dates
- Payment schedule (typically deposit, progress payment, final payment)
- Terms and warranty information
Our quotes are transparent: No hidden costs, no surprises. What we quote is what you pay.
Step 3: Colour Consultation & Selection
Choosing colours is exciting but can be overwhelming. We help by:
- Providing Resene colour swatches and sample pots
- Explaining how colours work in different lighting
- Suggesting combinations that complement your home's style
- Considering Wellington's bright light and how it affects perception
- Offering test patches on your walls before committing
Popular Wellington Colours:
- Resene Merino (warm white, versatile neutral)
- Resene Black White (crisp, modern white)
- Resene Half Tea (elegant greige)
- Resene Thorndon Cream (heritage-appropriate cream)
- Resene Ayers Rock (earthy terracotta for feature walls)
Step 4: Preparation Phase
Before any paint touches your walls:
Interior Projects:
- Furniture moving or covering
- Floor protection with drop sheets
- Removing switch plates, fixtures, and hardware
- Filling cracks, holes, and imperfections
- Sanding rough areas smooth
- Cleaning and degreasing surfaces
- Masking windows, fixtures, and trim
- Undercoat/primer application
Exterior Projects:
- Waterblasting entire exterior
- Scraping loose and flaking paint
- Treating mould, mildew, and rot
- Repairing damaged weatherboards or cladding
- Gap filling and caulking joints
- Priming bare timber or metal
- Scaffolding or platform setup for safety
Preparation is 50-60% of the project and where inexperienced painters cut corners. We don't.
Step 5: Painting Application
Technique matters:
- Brush work: For precision cutting on edges and trim
- Roller application: For smooth, even coverage on large surfaces
- Spray painting: For specific projects requiring ultra-smooth finishes
We apply:
- Two topcoats minimum (three for colour changes or premium finishes)
- Consistent coat thickness for even appearance
- Proper drying time between coats (24 hours minimum)
- Sharp, clean lines at colour transitions
Weather management (exterior projects):
We monitor forecasts closely and adjust schedules to avoid rain. We don't paint in wet, very windy, or very cold conditions—quality demands patience.
Step 6: Quality Inspection
Before calling a job complete:
- We conduct a thorough walkthrough
- Check for drips, thin spots, or missed areas
- Touch up any imperfections
- Remove all masking tape
- Clean paint lines on windows and fixtures
Then you inspect: We walk through with you, addressing any concerns immediately. Your satisfaction is our standard.
Step 7: Cleanup & Project Completion
We leave your property immaculate:
- Remove all drop sheets and protection
- Clean paint drips and splatters
- Dispose of all rubbish and old paint tins
- Replace switch plates and hardware
- Return furniture to original positions (interior jobs)
- Remove scaffolding and equipment (exterior jobs)
Final documentation:
- Detailed invoice
- Paint specifications and colours used (for future touch-ups)
- Maintenance recommendations
- 5-year workmanship guarantee certificate
Areas We Serve: Wellington Region Coverage
Wellington Decorators proudly serves the entire Wellington region, with intimate knowledge of each suburb's unique characteristics and challenges:
Urban Core
- Wellington CBD — Commercial and apartment painting
- Mount Victoria — Heritage villas, character homes
- Oriental Bay — Coastal properties, salt exposure
- Thorndon — Historic homes, approved heritage colours
Coastal Suburbs
- Miramar — Bungalows, film industry workers' homes
- Lyall Bay — Beachfront properties, weatherboard challenges
- Island Bay — Character homes, coastal village atmosphere
- Seatoun — Upscale coastal living, premium finishes
Hilltop Communities
- Brooklyn — Wind exposure, hilltop villas
- Khandallah — Established, large homes
- Wadestown — Character homes, steep sections
- Northland — Mid-century homes, panoramic views
Valley Suburbs
- Karori — Family suburb, mix of eras and styles
- Ngaio — Sheltered bush suburb, older timber homes
- Wilton — Mix of heritage and modern homes
Northern Suburbs
- Johnsonville — Growing hub, modern developments
- Newlands — Hilly terrain, weatherboard homes
- Tawa — Family-friendly, timber cladding common
- Churton Park — Newer suburb, modern builds
Southern & Eastern Suburbs
- Kilbirnie — Diverse housing stock, airport proximity
- Hataitai — Hillside living, art deco character
- Strathmore — Residential, established gardens
No project too far: If you're in the greater Wellington region, we'll provide a free quote. Call us to confirm we service your area.
Before & After Showcase: Real Wellington Homes
While photos speak volumes, here's what our residential painting projects typically achieve:
Weatherboard Villa Transformation — Thorndon
Challenge: 1910 villa with 5+ layers of flaking paint, rotted weatherboards, and faded heritage colours.
Solution: Complete paint stripping, rot repair, premium Resene heritage colour system.
Result: Stunning street appeal, approved heritage colours, 15+ year durability expected.
Client feedback: "We'd been putting it off for years. The transformation is incredible—feels like a new home."
Modern Townhouse Interior — Churton Park
Challenge: Builder's white throughout 3-storey townhouse, clients wanted warmth and character.
Solution: Colour consultation resulting in Resene Merino base with Resene Half Tea feature walls, upgraded ceilings.
Result: Sophisticated, cohesive spaces that feel custom-designed, not cookie-cutter.
Client feedback: "The colour choices made all the difference. It finally feels like our home."
Coastal Weatherboard Restoration — Lyall Bay
Challenge: 1960s bach with severe salt damage, bubbling paint, and rust stains.
Solution: Full waterblasting, rust treatment, marine-grade coating system, two premium topcoats.
Result: Protected against coastal elements, vibrant Resene Sea Fog blue reflects beach location.
Client feedback: "Previous paint jobs lasted 3-4 years max. We're confident this will last 10+."
Family Home Refresh — Karori
Challenge: Young family needed fresh, durable paint in high-traffic areas, low-VOC for children's safety.
Solution: Resene Broadwall low-VOC system throughout, scrubbable finishes in hallways, kids' rooms.
Result: Bright, healthy home that handles family life, no paint smell during or after.
Client feedback: "We stayed in the house the whole time—no smell, and the kids love their new rooms."
The Resene Eco Decorator Advantage
Wellington Decorators is a certified Resene Eco Decorator—what does this mean for you?
Premium Product Access
We source professional-grade Resene products not available in retail stores, offering:
- Superior coverage (fewer coats needed)
- Enhanced durability (longer lifespan)
- Better colour retention (won't fade quickly)
- Advanced technology (moisture resistance, flexibility, UV protection)
Environmental Responsibility
Resene leads New Zealand in eco-friendly paint technology:
- Low-VOC formulations: Healthier indoor air quality
- Environmental Choice certified: Verified environmental standards
- CoolColour technology: Reflective pigments reduce heat absorption
- Waterborne options: Minimal solvent content
Expert Colour Guidance
As Eco Decorators, we're trained in:
- Colour theory and psychology
- Resene's 10,000+ colour library
- Historical colour matching for heritage homes
- Trend forecasting and contemporary palettes
Wellington-Specific Knowledge
We know which Resene products perform best in:
- Salt-exposed coastal properties
- Wind-battered hilltop homes
- Moisture-prone valley locations
- High-UV north-facing walls
The result: Your paint job lasts longer, looks better, and protects your home more effectively than retail DIY products ever could.
Registered Master Painters: Your Quality Guarantee
Wellington Decorators is a Registered Master Painter, certified by Master Painters New Zealand—the industry's peak professional body.
What Registered Master Painter Means
Strict Entry Requirements:
- Minimum 5 years industry experience
- Proven track record with verifiable references
- Full insurance (public liability, professional indemnity)
- Compliance with NZ building codes and health & safety regulations
- Business systems and processes in place
Ongoing Standards:
- Annual re-certification and compliance audits
- Continuing professional development
- Adherence to code of ethics
- Complaint resolution processes
Your Benefits
5-Year Workmanship Guarantee:
Our work is backed by a comprehensive warranty covering:
- Paint adhesion and finish
- Workmanship quality
- Defects arising from application
If issues arise within 5 years due to our workmanship, we fix them at no cost.
Independent Dispute Resolution:
In the unlikely event of a disagreement, Master Painters offers free independent mediation—ensuring fair outcomes without legal costs.
Quality Assurance:
You're not just hiring a painter; you're engaging a certified professional accountable to industry standards and peer review.
Peace of Mind:
Cowboy operators come and go. Registered Master Painters are established businesses with reputations to protect and standards to maintain.
Why Wellington Homeowners Choose Wellington Decorators
Local Expertise
We've painted thousands of Wellington homes since establishment. We understand:
- Local building styles (villas, bungalows, mid-century, modern)
- Weatherboards, brick, plaster, stucco—each requires different approaches
- Microclimate variations across suburbs
- Common issues (rot, mould, paint failure patterns)
Premium Materials
We use Resene professional products exclusively—New Zealand's leading paint brand:
- Formulated for NZ conditions
- Superior durability in Wellington weather
- Low-VOC and eco-friendly options
- Comprehensive colour range
Skilled Team
Our painters are:
- Experienced professionals (minimum 3 years on our team)
- Health & safety certified
- Trained in modern techniques and products
- Customer-focused and respectful
Transparent Pricing
No hidden costs or surprise charges. Our quotes are detailed, honest, and competitive.
Reliability
- We show up when scheduled
- We work efficiently without cutting corners
- We communicate clearly throughout the project
- We clean up thoroughly every day
Customer Satisfaction Focus
Your happiness is our reputation. We don't consider a job complete until you're delighted with the result.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does residential painting cost in Wellington?
Residential painting costs vary significantly based on property size, condition, and scope:
- Interior (3-bedroom home): $15,000-$25,000
- Exterior (3-bedroom home): $22,000-$35,000
- Roof painting: $8,000-$14,000
For detailed pricing guidance, see our comprehensive House Painting Costs Wellington guide.
How long does residential painting take?
Typical timelines:
- Interior 3-bedroom home: 5-8 working days
- Exterior 3-bedroom home: 7-12 working days
- Roof painting: 3-6 days
- Full interior + exterior: 12-20 days
Weather, preparation requirements, and project complexity affect schedules. We provide realistic timelines in your quote.
Do I need to move out during interior painting?
Usually no, but it depends on scope:
- Single rooms: You can stay, just avoid the room being painted
- Whole house: Consider staying elsewhere for 3-5 days during heavy work
- Low-VOC paints: Allow safe occupancy with minimal smell
We'll coordinate with you to minimise disruption to your daily routine.
How do I choose paint colours?
We help with:
- Free colour consultation included in your quote
- Resene colour swatches and sample pots
- Test patches on your walls before committing
- Expert advice on colours that complement your home's style
Popular Wellington choices: Resene Merino, Black White, Half Tea, Thorndon Cream, and Sea Fog.
What preparation is included?
Our quotes include all necessary preparation:
- Interior: Filling, sanding, cleaning, masking, undercoating
- Exterior: Waterblasting, scraping, rot repair, gap filling, priming
- Both: Surface treatment to ensure proper paint adhesion
We never skip prep—it's 50-60% of a quality job.
Can you paint in winter?
Yes, with caveats:
- Interior painting: Year-round, no issues
- Exterior painting: We work winter months using weather-watching and fast-drying products, but expect potential weather delays
Summer (December-March) is optimal for exterior projects, but we complete quality work year-round.
Do you offer eco-friendly paint options?
Absolutely. As a Resene Eco Decorator, we specialise in:
- Low-VOC and zero-VOC paints
- Environmental Choice certified products
- Waterborne formulations
- CoolColour technology for energy efficiency
These cost 5-15% more but offer identical durability and healthier indoor air quality.
What's your warranty?
We offer a comprehensive 5-year workmanship guarantee, backed by our Registered Master Painters certification. This covers:
- Paint adhesion and finish
- Workmanship quality
- Defects arising from application
Paint manufacturer warranties (typically 10-15 years) are additional.
How do I maintain my paint job?
Simple maintenance extends paint life:
- Annual wash: Gentle waterblasting or hosing
- Gutter cleaning: Prevents staining
- Vegetation control: Trim plants away from walls
- Spot repairs: Touch up chips promptly
We provide detailed maintenance recommendations on project completion.
Can you match existing colours?
Yes. We can:
- Match from paint chips or samples
- Use Resene's colour-matching technology
- Identify colours from existing paint if you have the original specifications
Bring us a sample or photo, and we'll match it accurately.
Ready to Transform Your Wellington Home?
Whether you're planning a complete exterior repaint, freshening interiors room by room, or preparing your home for sale, Wellington Decorators delivers exceptional results you'll enjoy for years.
Get Your Free Quote Today
What happens next:
1. Call or email us with your project details
2. Free property visit — we assess and discuss your vision
3. Detailed written quote — transparent pricing, no surprises
4. Colour consultation — expert guidance on selections
5. Project scheduling — we work around your timeline
6. Professional execution — skilled team, premium materials, quality focus
7. 5-year guarantee — peace of mind with Registered Master Painters warranty
Contact Wellington Decorators:
- Phone: [Contact via website]
- Email: [Contact via website]
- Website: Get your free quote →
Wellington Decorators Limited
Registered Master Painters | Resene Eco Decorator | 5-Year Workmanship Guarantee
Servicing the entire Wellington region — from coastal Miramar to hilltop Khandallah, from heritage Thorndon to modern Churton Park.
Explore our services:
- Interior House Painting
- Exterior House Painting
- Roof Painting
- Paint Stripping
- Plastering & Gib Stopping
- Wood Staining
- Commercial Painting Services
- House Painting Costs Guide
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Need Help With Your Painting Project?
Wellington Decorators has been transforming homes across the Wellington region since 2023, led by a founder with 18+ years in the trade. As Registered Master Painters, we back every job with a 5-year workmanship guarantee.