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View Full Version : Painting how much to charge by the sq.ft.


whitmores paint
Sep 18, 2008, 05:48 AM
Recently, I started my own painting business and have been taken on big jobs both residential and commercial need to know what the going rate is on walls and ceilings also what to charge when waterproofing basement walls (interior) with a waterproof liquid coating

ballengerb1
Sep 18, 2008, 07:46 AM
The bigger question is what do your competitors charge? A handyman may charge $0.50 s/f and a pro twice that much in my area. Still you must be competitive so try to get a look at the competition's quotes. Maybe even have one of them give you a quote on your home.

whitmores paint
Sep 18, 2008, 12:49 PM
I really was looking for a quick answer to this question so I can get back to a customer. Right now I charge to paint walls and ceilings 2 coats .75 to 1.25 a sq.ft. depending on construction and condition of the home that includes paint and materials, however I am talking to a builder and he wants to me to give him a price with and without product... products being; ugl,thoroseal,and watertight. These products cost approx. $25.00 a gallon and spread 75 to 100 sq.ft. per gallon and require 2 coats for warranty. This will be applied to bare block w/ very few obtructions (plumbing watertank sink).

ballengerb1
Sep 18, 2008, 12:53 PM
Tell him that your best estimate would be for labor only. He can buy those materials for the same or lower price than you can and this way you avoid taking the risk. New block will suck up more than what most paint makes tell you on the can. Wish I could help more, your current pricing is well within the pro range.

whitmores paint
Sep 18, 2008, 01:53 PM
What is the price per sq.ft?

ballengerb1
Sep 18, 2008, 02:04 PM
Maybe I did not understand what you said. I thought you were currectly charging between $.75 and $1.25 per s/f. I think that's a fair range.

whitmores paint
Sep 18, 2008, 05:04 PM
Thank you for your answer you have been very helpful. I did not know if it would be more since there are other factors such as harmful contaminants and a much heavier material but I did quote 1.00 per ft w/o and 1.25 w/materials he said it sounds good.Thanks again!

ballengerb1
Sep 18, 2008, 07:10 PM
Good luck with the job. Get back to us when you are done and talk to us about how it turned out for you. It may help us hone our estinating skills, as if I had any.

Leeboy
Oct 13, 2008, 08:46 PM
In Canada... Labor only... I charge about $250 per room, walls only. Add $50 for the baseboard, $100 for the ceiling... Drywall repairs and caulking included... And I supply all materials at my discount.