Comments on: painting the interior of home. What is the cost difference between contractor and doing it myself?

By: kclifer

kclifer — Wed, 27 May 2009 13:07:55 +0000

In my area the cost depends on the type area to be painted.
$1.85 per sq.ft. would do a simple job of walls and standard trim.
This price can easily go up to 5.00 sq.ft.in a room with crown mold,spindles and any other special trim work.
The sq.ft. price means wall area and it covers labor and materials.
You could do it cheaper than a contractor but it is sometimes hard to work for friends.The real question is can you afford to possibly lose your friends over a disagreement in the painting process?

By: srbyn1

srbyn1 — Mon, 25 May 2009 06:28:17 +0000

It’s really tricky, in doing work for friends. A 3 Bedroom house would be quite a chore for one person, too; closets are a devil, for we average people. I think you should just decline, because you’d be biting off probably more than you’re willing to chew. Also, when I want to get my place painted, I want it done A.S.A.P. & one person would take too long & would get in my hair. The Painters has a crew & can get in & out in a minimal amount of time; sure they charge more, but there are reasons for it. Think hard before you do.

By: texasace00

texasace00 — Sun, 24 May 2009 03:37:42 +0000

In your case, I would first make a general assessment of labor and material costs. For instance figure a couple days for prep, a day per room walls and ceiling, a day per each room for woodwork, etc. Most pros know what they can do per day, so give yourself some reasonable elbow room on labor, intangables etc..Add up what you feel would be a reasonable days wages, and do the math, then add your material costs accordingly on top…
This is the way I use to bid jobs for friends….