How to Choose a Painter

Paint is one of the highest-ROI improvements you can make to a home. Fresh exterior paint boosts curb appeal and protects against weather damage. Interior paint transforms spaces and is often the first upgrade new homeowners tackle. But painting done poorly — bad prep, cheap materials, sloppy edges — is immediately obvious and costs more to fix than it would have to do right in the first place.

What to Look for in a Painter

1. 1

   Surface preparation emphasis

   80% of a good paint job is prep work. They should discuss scraping, sanding, priming, caulking, and repair before they discuss color.

2. 2

   Material quality

   Ask what brands and product lines they use. Premium paints (Benjamin Moore, Sherwin-Williams) cost more per gallon but cover better, last longer, and look better.

3. 3

   Insurance and bonding

   Painting involves ladders, scaffolding, and chemical products. Verify they carry general liability insurance at minimum.

4. 4

   Written detailed estimate

   The estimate should include: number of coats, paint brand and product, surface prep scope, areas to be painted, and timeline.

5. 5

   References with photos

   Ask for before and after photos from recent jobs, especially jobs similar to yours in scope.

6. 6

   Warranty on workmanship

   Many professional painters offer a 2–5 year warranty on their work. The paint manufacturer warranty only covers the product, not the application.

Questions to Ask Before You Hire

Red Flags to Watch For

What Does It Typically Cost?

Interior painting typically costs $2–$6 per square foot. Exterior painting runs $1,500–$5,000+ for a standard single-family home. Premium paints add $500–$1,500 to a project but deliver noticeably better results and longevity.