Painting your home is an excellent way to refresh your space, but it’s crucial to understand the process and associated costs before starting. Whether you’re painting a three-bedroom house or just one room, there are many factors to consider, such as preparation, materials, and labour. Here are our top tips for hiring a painter:-
1. Preparation is Key
One of the most important steps in any painting project is preparation. As one professional painter puts it, “No short cuts.” Proper preparation, such as cleaning, sanding, and priming, ensures a long-lasting and neat finish. Rushing this part of the job can lead to uneven results and more frequent repainting.
Tip: Ask the painter how they plan to prepare your walls and surfaces. A well-presented painter who takes time to prepare is often a sign of someone who takes pride in their work.
2. Get a Detailed Quote
It’s essential to get a comprehensive quote outlining what the job includes—whether it’s just the walls, or walls, ceilings, and woodwork. Ensure the painter specifies the number of coats, brand of paint, and any additional charges. For homes that are fully furnished, the cost may be higher due to extra time spent moving and covering furniture.
Price Range: For a standard three-bedroom house, the cost of painting the interior, including ceilings, walls, and woodwork, generally falls between €2,500 and €4,000, excluding VAT depending on what level of preparation is needed. If you’re providing the materials, expect the price to drop slightly, but be sure to clarify whether the quote includes VAT and any additional costs for preparation.
3. Consider the Quality of Materials
The choice of paint can significantly affect the price and quality of the finish. Opting for high-quality paint will ensure better durability and appearance. Brands like Dulux and Crown are recommended by many professionals for their superior finish. Designer brands, while more expensive, can add an extra layer of durability, especially in high-traffic areas.
Tip: Confirm with your painter which brand of paint they will use. While budget paint might save money initially, investing in a high-quality product can result in a longer-lasting finish.
4. Labour Costs and Time
Most professional painters will charge a daily rate, typically around €300 per day for high-quality work. A full painting job on a three-bedroom house can take up to 10 days, depending on the level of preparation required and the detail of the work. For rental properties, a painter might offer a quicker turnaround for around €1,500 to €2,000, though this could result in less attention to the finer details and finishes.
5. External Painting Costs
If you’re painting the exterior of your home, expect a different pricing structure. For example, painting the exterior of a three-bedroom house could cost between €1,300 and €1,800 for both labour and paint. For outdoor jobs, using high-quality paint designed for weather resistance is essential, such as Dulux Weathershield.
6. Ways to Save on Costs
- Prepare the Space: Save time and money by clearing out rooms and removing small items before the painter arrives. This helps speed up the job and reduces labour costs.
- Meet in Person: Meeting with your painter beforehand allows you to ask any questions about preparation, paint types, and costs. It’s a good opportunity to ensure both parties are clear on expectations.
- Check on Deposits: Many painters now require a deposit before beginning work, so be sure to confirm this when agreeing to a job.
7. Consult Before Purchasing Materials
If you plan to buy the paint or materials yourself, consult with your painter first. Professional painters will know what brands and types of paint are best suited to your home’s surfaces. They may also have compatible materials on hand, which could save time and ensure a seamless finish.
Tip: By working closely with your painter, you can avoid buying incompatible or sub-par materials that could end up costing more in the long run.
Conclusion
Hiring a painter is an investment in your home, so it’s important to make an informed decision. While it might be tempting to go with the lowest price, the quality of materials, preparation, and professionalism are key factors that will influence the final result. Always ensure you have a clear, detailed quote and keep communication open throughout the project. This will help ensure that the job is completed to your satisfaction, within your budget, and on time.
If you’re looking for someone to carry out painting work, don’t forget, you can post your job on www.Tradesmen.ie and get a number of quotes from rated painters!
Cheers
Oliver Dempsey
Tradesmen.ie
9 October 2024
General Tips for hiring a tradesman
Here are some tips to consider when hiring a tradesman:-
1. Ask for phone numbers of references so that you can check them out
2. Check insurance of the tradesman where insurance is required
3. Hire a suitably qualified architect, building surveyor or building engineer if the job is anything to do with a new build, building renovation or extension
