Guide · Before the visit
How to prepare for a painting estimate
Short answer
Decide what is in scope (which rooms and surfaces), have a rough idea of colour changes, know when you want the work done, and point out every repair you know about. Then let the painter see the walls as they really are. Quotes built on the same clear scope are the only ones you can fairly compare.
1. Decide the scope, room by room
The most common reason two quotes do not match is that the painters assumed different scopes. Before anyone visits, walk through the house and write a simple list: each room, and for each one whether you want walls, ceiling, trim, doors and closets painted. For an exterior, list siding, trim, soffits and fascia, doors, garage door, and anything else like railings.
2. Know roughly what colours you want
You do not need final colour codes. You do need to know whether you are staying similar, going lighter over something dark, or going to a strong colour. That is what changes the number of coats. If you are torn, ask the painter to price two coats plus primer so you are not surprised later.
3. Point out every problem you know about
Water stains, cracked corners, peeling in the bathroom, a patched hole where a TV mount used to be, soft wood on the exterior trim. Anything you mention is priced now instead of becoming an extra later.
4. Know your dates and constraints
A possession date, guests arriving, a baby due, a condo elevator booking window. Deadlines change how a painter schedules and sometimes how many people they put on the job. For exterior work, remember the Calgary season is short; see when to paint outside.
5. Tell them about the house
The approximate year it was built matters, because older paint may contain lead. Health Canada says homes built before 1960 probably contain lead-based paint. Also mention pets, people working from home, and anyone sensitive to odours.
Have this ready for the visit
- Your room-by-room or wall-by-wall list of what to paint
- A note of colour direction for each area
- A list of known repairs, stains and damage
- Preferred dates and any hard deadlines
- The approximate year the house was built
- For condos: building rules, elevator booking and parking
- Clear access to the rooms and walls being quoted
Getting ready for the work itself
That comes later, once you have accepted a quote. Ask the painter what they expect you to move and what they will handle. Typically you would clear small items, pictures and breakables, and the crew moves and covers larger furniture. Agree on it in advance so nobody is surprised on the first morning.
Related questions
Do I need to choose colours before the estimate?
How long does a painting estimate visit take?
Should I clean or patch walls before the estimate?
Next
Where to go from here
Questions to ask a painter
Use the visit to ask these, and check the answers appear in the written quote.
What decides the price
Knowing the cost factors helps you explain your project and read the quote.
Request your estimate
Describe the project for review; a suitable painter may be contacted manually if available.