Small works
Repainting a single room
Preparation is most of the job and all of the finish
The short answer
A standard room is typically one to two days: preparation, one coat of primer or mist where needed, then two finish coats. In older properties, preparation dominates — filling, sanding, sealing patches and dealing with the cornice and woodwork take longer than the rolling.
What the work involves
Protecting floors and fittings, filling and sanding, cutting in around cornices and facings, priming bare or patched areas, then two coats to walls, ceiling and woodwork.
Rules and responsibilities in Scotland
No certification applies. Pre-1992 paint layers can contain lead, so dry sanding old woodwork should be avoided without precautions.
What commonly goes wrong
Painting straight onto fresh plaster without a mist coat, and using trade white on ornate cornicing that then loses its detail under thick coats.
What it usually costs
Indicative ranges only, to help you judge a quote. They are not an estimate for your property — only the business doing the work can give you that.
- Priced per room; ceilings and woodwork add materially to the time.
- High tenement ceilings need access equipment and more paint.
- Dark to light colour changes need an extra coat.
What to do, in order
- 1Clear and protect the room.
- 2Fill, sand and seal every patch.
- 3Mist-coat any bare plaster.
- 4Two finish coats, cutting in first.
- 5Keep the colour codes on the property record.
Local detail for the Lothians
- Edinburgh tenement ceilings are high, so allow for tower access and extra material.
- Ornate cornices and ceiling roses need brushwork and patience, not a spray gun.
- Coastal East Lothian properties benefit from wipeable finishes in hallways and kitchens.
When you need a professional
Ornate plasterwork, very high ceilings and suspected lead paint are all reasons to use a decorator.
Common questions
- How long does one room take?
- Usually one to two days including preparation and two coats.
- Do I need a mist coat?
- On fresh plaster, yes. Without it the top coats will not bond properly and can peel.
Lothian Property is a property information and professional-introduction service operated by Maybury Scotland Limited. Lothian Property is not an estate agency. Where requested, we may connect homeowners with independent estate agents and other property professionals. How we work.
Related pages
- Wall patching and making good
Filling cracks, holes and old fixing points so a room is ready to paint.
- Skirting and facings repairs
Repairing or replacing damaged skirting and door facings to match the original profile.
- Curtain poles and blinds
Hanging poles and blinds level and secure above tall period windows.
Last reviewed 5 September 2026.