How to Quote Painting Jobs Like a Pro

Master the art of professional painting estimates. Learn proven strategies to price jobs accurately, win more bids, and maximize your profits with every quote.

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Complete Guide Contents

1. Painting Quote Basics: What Every Professional Needs to Know

Creating accurate painting quotes is the foundation of a profitable painting business. A professional quote should include all costs, establish clear expectations, and position you competitively in the market.

What Should a Painting Quote Include?

Essential Quote Elements

  • Detailed scope of work
  • Material specifications
  • Labor costs breakdown
  • Timeline expectations
  • Terms and conditions

Pricing Components

  • Paint and primer costs
  • Supplies and equipment
  • Prep work requirements
  • Labor hours and rates
  • Profit margin and overhead

2. Accurate Measurements: The Foundation of Every Quote

Accurate measurements are crucial for profitable painting quotes. Here's how professional contractors measure different surfaces:

Wall Surface Calculation

Standard Formula:

(Length × Height) - Doors - Windows = Paintable Area
  • • Measure wall length and height
  • • Subtract door area (21 sq ft each)
  • • Subtract window area (15 sq ft average)
  • • Add 10% for waste and touch-ups

Pro Tips:

  • • Use a laser measure for accuracy
  • • Round up to nearest half foot
  • • Account for texture differences
  • • Note prep work requirements

Interior Walls

Standard ceiling height: 8-9 feet

Coverage: 350-400 sq ft per gallon

Ceilings

Length × Width = Area

Coverage: 350-400 sq ft per gallon

Trim & Doors

Measure linear feet of trim

Doors: 20 sq ft average each

3. Material Cost Calculations

Pro Tip: Material Cost Strategy

Always add 15-20% to material costs for waste, touch-ups, and price fluctuations. This protects your profit margins and accounts for unexpected needs.

Paint Cost Calculation

Premium Paint

$45-65 per gallon

Coverage: 350-400 sq ft

Standard Paint

$25-45 per gallon

Coverage: 300-350 sq ft

Primer

$20-35 per gallon

Coverage: 300-400 sq ft

Supply Costs

Brushes & Rollers$25-50
Drop Cloths$15-30
Painter's Tape$10-25
Sandpaper & Prep$20-40
Plastic & Protection$15-35
Total Supplies$85-180

4. Labor Cost Estimation

Labor typically represents 70-80% of your total quote. Accurate labor estimation is crucial for profitability.

Labor Rate Calculation

Hourly Rate Components:

  • • Base wage: $20-35/hour
  • • Taxes & benefits: +25%
  • • Equipment & overhead: +15%
  • • Profit margin: +20-30%

Total Rate: $35-65/hour

Time Estimates

Prep work150-200 sq ft/hour
Priming300-400 sq ft/hour
Wall painting350-450 sq ft/hour
Trim painting25-40 linear ft/hour
Cleanup10% of total time

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