Query “how much does it cost to hire a painter?” online, and you’re going to find a lot of differing answers. Those answers can and do depend on a variety of factors that we’re about to cover in the following article.
Bottom line, as you read over these factors, is to not take the word of the first quote you see. As you’re about to find out, you can use each of these elements that go into pricing to your advantage. Let’s begin!
1. Outdoor vs. Indoor
The cost to hire a painter will first depend on the difficulty of the area. Painting a house’s exterior, for example, could require more money as you have to cover a larger space with more curves, crevices, and height.
Painting a room, on the other hand, means a smaller amount of space and four walls. That means a simple layout, quick completion, and cheaper costs.
2. Square Footage
Another factor in determining the painter cost is the square footage of the space one will be covering. Square footage factors into hourly rates or a per-foot rate.
More square footage typically means a longer amount of time for labor. If the painter is quoting by the hour, expect a higher rate ($20-$50 per hour, for example) than square footage ($1-$5 per square foot).
3. Experience Levels
Experience of the craftsman will also influence painter prices. An individual just starting out will be unproven. That usually results in a lower asking price than someone who’s done it for years and is well-established.
As a homeowner, paint jobs can get quite expensive. Don’t hesitate to ask a painter for a list of previous projects or references that you can follow up on, especially if you are uncertain about market prices.
4. Materials and Supplies
The price for hiring a painter can also be influenced by the necessary materials and supplies (i.e., amount and SKUs of paint, as well as brushes and other items). Furnishing these on your own could bring down the price to just labor.
5. Geographical Area
Yet another influencing factor in the question of how much is a painter is geographical area. Lower cost of living areas will create a lower-cost market as craftsmen seek to remain competitive while balancing what consumers are willing to accept.
6. Choices
Finally, playing the market to your advantage can work out to a smaller bill. There are usually many capable people looking to get started in house painting in your area. Just check out these painters for a sampling of what’s out there and get multiple quotes.
So How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Painter?
By now, the answer should be clearer in your mind based on each of the factors presented above. Instead of “how much does it cost to hire a painter?”, you should be asking what you need from a painter and how to get the maximum value from them.
You are in control. Never forget that! For more helpful advice, tips, and information on homes and home improvements, check out some of our additional posts!
