Square footage is only one part of the estimate
Two rooms with the same floor area can require very different amounts of labor. Wall height, ceiling shape, trim, repairs, furniture protection and color changes can change the job substantially.
What usually changes the scope
- Wall and ceiling height
- Vaulted or pitched ceilings
- Drywall repair and texture matching
- Doors, trim, baseboards and cabinets
- Dark-to-light or major color changes
- Occupied versus empty rooms
- Protection and masking requirements
Ask for a scope, not just a number
A useful painting estimate should say which surfaces are included, what preparation is included, who supplies paint and whether repairs or specialty coatings are separate.