How to Quote for Painting Work in the USA
Painting quotes in the USA are built on square footage, prep time, and materials – not an hourly rate presented to the customer. Here’s the professional approach.
Step 1: Measure the paintable surface area
– Walls: length × height, subtract large openings (doors, windows) if you’re painting them separately
– Ceilings: room footprint
– Trim: typically 10-15% of wall area as a shorthand
Step 2: Assess surface condition
Poor prep = poor finish. Add time for: patching holes, sanding rough areas, cleaning surfaces, priming stained or new drywall. Prep work often takes as long as the painting itself.
Step 3: Calculate labor cost
Estimate production rate (SF/hr) × your fully-loaded hourly rate = labor cost.
Step 4: Add materials
Good paint: $45-$85/gallon. One gallon covers 350-400 SF first coat. Mark materials up 20%.
Step 5: Add overhead and profit (20-30%)
Your quote should specify: Paint brand and sheen level, number of coats, prep work included, what’s not included (moving furniture, repairs beyond minor patching), payment terms.
Free calculator by CoreQuote — the quoting app for trades
FAQs
Should I include a paint allowance or supply the paint myself?
Always supply the paint and mark it up – this is standard practice and gives you quality control. Homeowners supplying their own paint often choose discount brands that require extra coats, cutting into your labor efficiency.
How many coats should I include in a standard painting quote?
Two coats is the professional standard for interior repaints. New construction or drastic color changes may require three. Always specify coat count in your quote.
CoreQuote is a quoting and invoicing app for US tradespeople. Try free for 6 months at kwowta.com.
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