Let’s face it: Singapore is a costly place to live. The last thing any HDB owner wants is to spend $3,000 on a paint job that they could have obtained for half the price, given the escalating cost of CUI fans and the impending GST hikes.
You’re probably searching for the greatest deal whether you recently picked up your BTO keys or want to update a “CUI” (worn out) resale apartment before a new tenant moves in. However, “cheap” might be a double-edged sword in the Painting Services Singapore industry. When the bubbles form in two years, you’ll need to repaint if you go too cheap.
This book focuses on the “sweet spot”—the most economical approaches and designs that appear high-end but are reasonably priced.
The Winner: The Single-Colour “Minimalist” Matte Style
Request a Single-Colour Matte Finish from a contractor if you want the lowest quotation possible.
1. The King of Single-Colour
In Singapore, you pay for the painter’s time in addition to the paint. A painter must stop, clean their brushes, swap out their rollers, and—above all—spend an hour “cutting in” (taping the edges where two colours meet) each time they need to change colours.
The workers may “blitz” through your four-room apartment in record time if they choose a single colour for the entire house, commonly an off-white like Sail White or Barley White. You will pay less if there is less labour time.
2. The Magic of Matte (Matex)
The majority of Singaporeans on a tight budget choose “Matex” or “Maxilite.” Matte emulsion paints are what these are. They are the cost-effective option for the following reasons:
- They conceal “ugly” walls: Not all HDB walls are precisely flat. Light is reflected by glossy paint, revealing every imperfection. Because matte paint absorbs light, your walls appear smoother than they actually are.
- Less Prep Work: The painters spend less time on costly “skim coating” (plastering the entire wall) since matte conceals faults.
Breaking Down the Costs: HDB Painting Prices in 2026
1. You must be aware of current market rates in order to prevent being “chopped” (overcharged) by contractors. Two coats of paint are often included in a standard package for all walls and ceilings.
Type of HDB Flat Standard White Budget Package Premium Bundle (Odour-less/Washable)
Three Rooms Between $700 and $1,050Between $1,100 and $1,550
2. $950 to $1,400 for four rooms Between $1,500 and $2,000
$1,200 to $1,700 for five rooms Between $1,800 and $2,400
Pro-Tip: You should budget an additional $200 to $400 for a sealer coat if you live in a resale apartment and the previous owners selected dark colours or the paint is “chalking” (dust comes off when you touch it). Your fresh paint will peel off like a horrible sunburn if you don’t do this.
5 Secret Ways to Lower Your Painting Quote
The majority of homeowners simply give a business a call and take the first quote. Here’s how to negotiate like an expert:
1. The Benefit of “Empty House”
Paint before the furniture arrives if at all possible. It is significantly less expensive. Why? Because the painters don’t have to spend half the morning covering your TV in plastic or relocating your bulky IKEA wardrobe. Painters love an empty unit, and if you ask, they will typically give you a “vacant unit” discount.
2.Adhere to the “Big 5” hues
Colours like Sail White, Lily White, Barley White, Apple White, and Rose White are heavily supplied in Singapore. The cost increases if you choose a specialized “Electric Neon Blue” that the contractor must specifically buy in a little tin. For the majority of the house, stick to the classics.
3. Ignore the Feature Wall
Everybody wants a focal wall in the living area that is deep teal or dark grey. But light colours only need two coats to seem even, whereas dark hues frequently need three or four. More paint = more coats = more money. If you really want colour, use rugs or paintings instead of an accent wall.
4. Assemble Your “Misc” Assignments
Avoid hiring the painter again a month later to finish the main entrance frame or the bathroom plumbing. The majority of Painting Services Singapore provide a “full house bundle.” Adding $150 to a large work for the doors and pipes is far less expensive than paying $400 for a single trip later.
5. Purchase Plastic Protection on Your Own
Offer to “pre-wrap” your devices and transfer any tiny items if you are residing in the house while it is being painted. You can use the two hours of work saved by the employees as leverage to get a $50–$100 reduction. Which Paint Brand Should You Choose?
The priciest “Diamond” or “All-in-One” paint isn’t always necessary.
- For rental units, choose Maxilite or Matex. It is inexpensive, tidy, and simple to maintain when the tenant vacates.
- Upgrading to Raffles Paint or Vinilex 5000 is worthwhile for your forever residence. They are washable and have a “low VOC” (reduced chemical odor). Instead of repainting, you can wipe off any crayon drawings your child makes on the wall.
- For kitchens and toilets, avoid using cheap paint. The humidity in Painting Services Singapore is excessive. If you don’t spend the additional forty dollars on anti-mold paint for the ceilings, you’ll have black patches in six months.
Is Doing It Yourself Actually Less Expensive Than Hiring a Professional?
Everybody has thought, “I’ll just buy a roller from Self-Fix and do it this weekend.”
- Equipment: You’ll need ladders, drop sheets, trays, masking tape, rollers, and extension poles. That’s $150 already.
- The Time: A skilled crew completes a four-room apartment in two days. It typically takes two to three full weekends for a do-it-yourself person.
- The Quality: It’s really difficult to cut in the corners close to the ceiling. You will ultimately need to hire an expert to fix it if you make a mistake.
FAQ
1.What is the cheapest painting style for HDB flats?
Plain solid colour painting with matte finish is the cheapest and most practical option.
2.Is one coat of paint enough to save money?
One coat is cheaper but usually not recommended. Two coats provide better coverage and durability.
3. Does professional painting cost more than DIY?
Not always. Professional Painting Services Singapore often save money by reducing errors and paint wastage.
4. Which paint finish is the cheapest?
Matte finish is typically the most affordable compared to satin or gloss.
5. Can I mix budget paint with premium paint?
It’s not recommended, as it may cause uneven finish and durability issues.
