Understand Hourly Painting Rates Before Hiring

In some cases, you may find it difficult to know how much painters can charge per hour when their quotes are all different. If you’re trying to paint your rental or investment home, the hourly rates can confuse you fast. So let’s try to break it down together, in a simple way, not too fancy, just focused.

Is Hourly Rate a Good Way to Price a Paint Job?

Not always. Most of the time, painters don’t like charging per hour. Why? Because no two painters work at the same speed. One painter might be fast and another takes their time — doesn’t mean one is better than the other.

This is why the flat-rate pricing is rather trustworthy. It keeps surprises at bay and you are aware of the amount that you are paying. Let us say you are working with a painter who issues an hourly charge, make it clear (and be sure that the painter spells it out to you) what is covered in the rate is it prep, cleanup, paint, material? Many times, it doesn't.

What’s the Usual Hourly Charge?

Painters in general charge somewhere between $52 to $81 an hour for most regular painting work. That rate can go higher, even above $100, for more detailed or specialty work. For example, cabinets or custom finishes take more time and care. Also, interior painting tends to be more expensive than exterior. It’s not always about the surface size — it’s the prep and detail that adds up.

Just so you know, exterior painting takes more equipment, but it’s often faster. Interiors require a greater protection and care and in case of trims and doors or when you are using two or more colors.

What normally goes into the price?

Most painting is hourly with no paint included. Therefore, there might be a chance that you purchase the paint yourself and that would cost you between 50 90$). This of course assuming you purchase high quality paint like Sherwin-Williams or Benjamin Moore. Additionally, do not omit other supplies - brushes, rollers, tape, drop cloths, they all add up to the budget.

The typical quote you receive from a professional painter or company like Windsor Painting is always a clear flat-rate price that includes the cost of the paint, tools and of course, the preparation and even the cost of touch up after the work is complete and in scope. That is a safer call when leasing apartments or houses that are under your supervision.

What to Watch Out For

When an employee is willing to work hourly without specific terms watch it. You would want to ensure that they are insured, licensed and they can provide past reviews. Also, enquire concerning warranties. A good paint job should last, and real pros usually offer a guarantee.

Even if you’re renting the property out, quality matters. Tenants notice if the paint job looks rushed. So does future resale value. Whether it's a quick refresh or a full repaint, working with a proper team makes a difference.

Stuck on how to figure it out?

Still not convinced? Your best bet would be to contact someone and request a quote that would be reasonable to your space. There is no need to worry, just call Windsor Painting and request a flat-rate quote.