Do you have a few estimates in front of you for your interior or exterior house painting project? Maybe you talked to several prospective painters, explored your project goals, and now you have to pick one out of the pile, hopefully making the best choice.
It can be tempting to go for the cheapest option. In some ways, that’s what’s expected! As homeowners, we’re always hunting for the best deal (we do it too!).
Before you pick the smallest number, however, we have a few considerations for you to keep in mind. After all, we know a little something about house painting , and we know that sometimes the smallest estimate represents a quality of work that will leave you paying the most in the end.
What Makes a Cheap Painting Estimate Possible?
That’s the real question. For a company to stay in business, something in the process must be suffering to make an extremely low bid possible.
Here’s what you typically find driving down the prices:
- Minimizing or skipping surface preparation
- Low-quality paint products
- A reliance on cheaper subcontractors rather than invested employees
- Warranties that are packed with loopholes to protect the company rather than you
- Low overhead costs, likely made possible by the lack of a physical business location, rented equipment, etc...
- No insurance, putting the liability and responsibility on your shoulders
Any or all of the above should leave you concerned.
Essential Questions to Ask Your Painting Company
To help steer your conversation in the right direction, and narrow down your list of candidates, here are a few key questions to ask:
- Are you licensed and insured?
- Do you rely on subcontractors, or do you have employees of your own?
- What kind of surface preparation and repairs are included in my estimate?
- Where can I find examples of your work?
- What kind of paint products are you using, and why?
Be sure to do your own research as well, exploring their website and online reviews .
Best of Luck with Your House Painting Project!
Remember, it always pays to dig a little deeper and learn as much as possible about your painting professional. Paying a more for a responsible, reliable, dedicated painting company to handle your project is often the most cost-effective option in the long run.
Quality prep, quality paint, and a quality application will last much longer!
