Painters price by room, by square foot, or by measured job with production rates, adding prep and materials. Packages such as single room, whole interior, exterior, and cabinets help customers compare. Color consultation and minor repairs can be add-ons. Put coats, surfaces and colors in writing.
Pricing models
| Model | Use |
|---|---|
| Per room | Simple interiors |
| Per square foot | Larger jobs |
| Measured bid | Exteriors and commercial |
| Hourly | Small repairs only |
What to include
- Surfaces painted and not painted
- Prep: patching, sanding, caulking
- Number of coats
- Paint line and colors
- Cleanup and touch-ups
Sample estimate structure
| Line | Notes |
|---|---|
| Prep | Patching, caulking, sanding, scraping |
| Primer | Where needed |
| Finish coats | Number of coats and product |
| Protection | Furniture moving, floor covering |
| Lead-safe work | If pre-1978 and paint is disturbed |
| Cleanup | Daily and final |
| Warranty | Terms |
Explaining price differences
Customers often compare quotes that differ widely. Explain what is included in yours: prep steps, number of coats, product quality and protection. A cheaper quote may skip prep or use one coat. Clear scope helps customers compare fairly.
Worked example: interior package
For a three-bedroom interior repaint, Jordan offers walls only, walls plus ceilings, or full package with trim and doors. Each option lists rooms, prep, number of coats and product line. Customers can pick their budget while understanding the difference. Color changes from dark to light may need an extra coat, noted on the estimate.
Mistakes
- Square-foot pricing that ignores prep
- Not charging for color changes
- No deposit on large material orders
Sample estimate note on paint quality
"This estimate uses a premium washable finish for walls and a durable enamel for trim. A lower-cost product is available at a reduced price but may need more coats and touch-ups sooner. Let us know your preference."
Pricing cabinets
Cabinet painting involves removing doors and hardware, cleaning and degreasing, sanding, priming, spraying or brushing a durable enamel, curing and reinstalling. Many painters price by door and drawer count plus cabinet boxes, with extras for glass doors, new hardware holes or color changes on interiors. Explain cure times so homeowners know when the kitchen is fully usable.
Keeping prices healthy
Painting prices depend on surface area, prep needed, number of coats, color changes, product quality, access and protection. Track your crews' actual production rates to price accurately, and explain in every estimate what is included so homeowners can compare quotes fairly.
What affects your price
- Square footage
- Prep and repairs
- Paint quality
- Height and access
Free tools
Common questions
Is per-room pricing fair?
It is simple; adjust for room size and condition.
Should paint cost be separate?
Some painters itemize; others include it in the price.
How do I price cabinet painting?
Per door and drawer or per project, given the detail work.
Should I charge for color consultations?
Some painters include basic help choosing colors; others refer to designers or paint store color services.
Should I charge for minor repairs?
Small patching is usually included; carpentry repairs are priced separately.
Should I charge for moving furniture?
Many painters include light furniture moving and charge for heavy or extensive moving; say so on the estimate.
Give customers a clear way to describe the job and request a quote
A quote form that asks the right questions saves back-and-forth and makes your business look organized.
See websites with quote forms