Taking Accurate Measurements
Foundation of profitable quotes
Accurate measurements are the foundation of profitable painting quotes. Here's how to measure different surfaces correctly:
Interior Measurements
- Walls: Measure height × width for each wall. Subtract doors and windows over 15 sq ft. Don't forget closets and hallways.
- Ceilings: Length × width of the room. Add 10% for textured ceilings that require more paint.
- Trim & Baseboards: Measure linear feet. Include door frames, window casings, and crown molding separately.
Exterior Measurements
- Siding: Measure each side of the house. Height × width, accounting for gables and architectural features.
- Fascia & Soffits: Linear feet for fascia boards, square feet for soffits. Don't forget to check accessibility.
- Windows & Doors: Measure frames and shutters separately. Note prep work needed for each.
Pro Tip: The 15% Rule
Always add a 10-15% waste factor to your measurements. This covers touch-ups, overspray, and ensures you don't run short on materials. Better to have leftover paint than an angry customer.
Understanding Charge Rates and Pricing
Modern pricing that includes materials and labor
Modern painting contractors use charge rates - a single price per unit that includes both materials and labor. This simplifies quoting and improves accuracy.
2025 Industry Charge Rates
| Surface Type | Unit | Low End | Average | High End |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Interior Walls | per sq ft | $1.50 | $2.50 | $4.00 |
| Ceilings | per sq ft | $1.75 | $3.00 | $5.00 |
| Baseboards/Trim | per linear ft | $2.00 | $3.50 | $5.00 |
| Exterior Siding | per sq ft | $2.00 | $3.50 | $6.00 |
| Kitchen Cabinets | per door | $75 | $125 | $200 |
Factors That Increase Rates
- • Premium paint or specialty finishes
- • Extensive prep work needed
- • Difficult access (ladders, scaffolding)
- • Custom color matching
- • Tight deadlines or rush jobs
Geographic Adjustments
- • Major cities: +25-50% higher rates
- • Rural areas: -15-25% lower rates
- • Coastal regions: +20-30% higher
- • Local competition level
- • Cost of living adjustments
Calculating Labor Costs
Accurate time estimates and proper rates
Labor typically represents 25-35% of your total project cost. Here's how to calculate it accurately:
The 30% Rule (Simple Method)
A quick approach many contractors use:
Detailed Calculation Method
1. Production Rates (per hour):
- • Walls: 150-200 sq ft
- • Ceilings: 100-150 sq ft
- • Trim: 50-75 linear ft
2. Add prep time: 20-40% of painting time
3. Hourly rates: $25-$75 (location dependent)
Estimating Material Requirements
Paint, primer, and supplies calculation
Accurate material estimates prevent costly overruns and ensure profitability.
Paint Coverage Guidelines
- Standard paint: 350-400 sq ft per gallon
- Primer: 200-300 sq ft per gallon
- Textured surfaces: Reduce coverage by 25-30%
Additional Materials Checklist
- • Primer (when needed)
- • Brushes and roller covers
- • Drop cloths and plastic sheeting
- • Painter's tape and masking supplies
- • Caulk and patching compounds
- • Sandpaper and prep materials
- • Cleaning supplies and rags
Material Cost Formula
(Total Square Feet ÷ Coverage per Gallon) × Cost per Gallon × Number of Coats = Paint Cost
Adding Profit Margins
Building sustainable business growth
Your quote must include adequate profit to sustain and grow your business. Don't work for free!
Industry Standard Markups
Materials
Mark up from wholesale cost
Labor
Profit after overhead costs
Overall Project
Net profit margin target
⚠️ Don't Race to the Bottom
Charging too little hurts the entire industry and makes it impossible to provide quality service. Price for value, not just to win jobs. Quality customers will pay for professional work.
Presenting Your Quote Professionally
Win more jobs with professional presentation
A professional presentation can be the difference between winning and losing a job.
Essential Quote Elements
- Company branding: Logo, license number, insurance details
- Detailed scope: Exactly what's included (and what's not)
- Itemized pricing: Break down by room or surface type
- Timeline: Start date, duration, and completion date
- Terms: Payment schedule, warranty, and conditions
Professional Tips
- • Deliver quotes within 24-48 hours
- • Use professional quote software or templates
- • Include photos from the site visit
- • Offer multiple options (good, better, best)
- • Follow up within 3-5 days if no response
- • Include customer testimonials or references
- • Clearly state quote expiration date
Common Quoting Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Underestimating prep work
Consequence: Jobs become unprofitable, timeline overruns
✅ Solution: Always inspect surfaces carefully and price 30-50% of time for prep work
❌ Forgetting overhead costs
Consequence: No money left for insurance, equipment, or business growth
✅ Solution: Include 15-25% for overhead in every quote (insurance, vehicles, equipment)
❌ Racing to lowest price
Consequence: Attracts bad clients, kills industry standards
✅ Solution: Compete on value, quality, and service - not just price
❌ Vague scope of work
Consequence: Disputes, change orders, unhappy customers
✅ Solution: Be extremely specific about what is and isn't included