DIY vs hiring: understanding painter and decorator day rate

Are you contemplating a fresh coat of paint for your space but unsure whether to tackle it yourself or hire a professional? We get you! Both are big commitments – the former in time and energy and the latter in your hard-earned cash. In this guide, we’ll delve into the intricacies of painter and decorator day rates, comparing the DIY costs with hiring a professional.

Let’s unearth the factors that influence pricing and how you can make an informed decision for your painting project.

Tips for making the right choice

Navigating between DIY painting and hiring a professional can be challenging. Sometimes we like to big up our DIY skills and then bite off more than we can chew, and other times we underestimate our know-how with a brush and roller. To help you make the right decision for your project, here are some valuable tips:

• Evaluate the complexity of the project and your level of expertise. Are you familiar with techniques such as cutting in? While DIY painting can be fulfilling, complex tasks like painting a house exterior may require professional assistance.
• Consider the time and effort involved in DIY painting versus the convenience of hiring a professional. What do your social calendar and work-life balance look like? Are there any priority commitments that might get in the way?
• Request multiple quotes from reputable painters and decorators to compare pricing and services offered, so you get an accurate idea of what you’ll be paying for. And, of course, cost-savings if you’re lucky.
• Factor in any additional expenses, such as equipment rental or decorating supplies, when budgeting for a DIY project.
• Prioritise quality and long-term results when weighing up your options – if this is your forever home you want it to look good. Besides, think of the waste if you’re not happy with the results *cries in eco-conscious DIYer*.

Another thing to note, before we move on to the next section, is that many decorators leverage trade accounts with their preferred suppliers to access quality paints at competitive prices. If you have specific colour preferences, your decorator may advise you to order designer paint or opt for a colour-matched trade paint from brands like Dulux or Bradite. This approach not only ensures shade accuracy but can also result in cost savings.

If this sounds like music to your ears, then why not explore our range of designer paints and colour-matching services to bring your vision to life?

How much do painters and decorators charge on average?

When it comes to painting your space, cost is a significant consideration. On average, hiring a professional painter and decorator can range wildly from £400 – £6000 depending on factors such as location, experience, and the quality of paint used. Day rates are generally around the £325 per day ballpark figure.

Alternatively, opting for a DIY approach may seem more cost-effective, with expenses typically ranging from roughly £10-£40 per litre of paint, depending on brand, type and finish. Of course, you’ll have to think about all the tools, equipment and products required along with the other considerations we mentioned earlier.

Breaking down painter and decorator day rates by project

NB: Prices assume trade paints were used, designer paints can raise the total to significantly more.

Factors influencing painter and decorator day rates

When determining the painter and decorator day rate, a long list of key factors come into play, each contributing to the overall cost of your project. It’s important to keep these in mind when budgeting for your home makeover.

Preparation

The condition of your walls and surfaces can influence the preparation work required before painting or decorating. Issues like damp patches, stains, or wallpaper removal may necessitate additional treatments, increasing both time and cost.

Materials and equipment

Specialist materials, such as hypoallergenic paints or premium brands like Farrow & Ball, can incur higher costs compared to standard options. On top of this, the need for specialised equipment like scaffolding or ladders for tall ceilings can impact the overall quotation.

Project size / complexity

The size of the project, whether it’s a single room or an entire house, directly correlates with the total cost. Larger spaces require more materials, labour, and time, resulting in higher overall expenses.

Before you even think about contacting a professional to ask about their rates, you should calculate roughly how many litres of paint you’ll need for the project by evaluating the total surface area along with the general coverage of the type of paint required for the job. Don’t forget to consider how many coats of paint are needed either – for example, porous or problem surfaces might just need a few extra layers for the lovely smooth finish you’re after.

Location

Painter and decorator rates can vary based on the demand and living costs of your location. High-demand areas or regions with elevated living expenses, such as urban centres, often command higher rates compared to rural or less populated areas.

Skill level and experience

The skill level and experience of the professionals involved also contribute to pricing discrepancies. For instance, painting the exterior of a house demands a higher competency when compared to painting a garden fence, driving up its average cost.

Established professionals or those with specialised skills may charge higher rates to reflect their expertise and reputation. It’s also worth noting that larger companies are more likely to include higher VAT and overhead costs in their quotations compared to independent contractors.

Location

The geographical area in which you reside can significantly impact the painter and decorator day rate, with urban dwellers in higher-income cities spending a lot more on home improvement. Urban centres like London often command higher rates due to higher living costs and increased demand for services. In contrast, areas such as Newcastle, Liverpool, and Devon may offer more competitive rates.

Experience and skill level

The expertise and experience of the painter and decorator also influence their day rate. Seasoned professionals with years of industry experience may command higher rates compared to newcomers.

Additional or “hidden” costs

Last-minute call-out charges

How much a painter and decorator is likely to charge may also vary depending on project urgency and short timeframes with quick turnarounds. Emergencies or last-minute requests may incur additional charges; however, you’re unlikely to get this from most independent “one-man-band” decorators as they’re often booked up weeks in advance. Larger painting and decorating companies may offer urgent call-outs with higher rates.

Parking charges

In urban areas with limited parking, painters and decorators may pass on parking charges incurred during the project. These costs are typically included in the overall quotation or billed separately.

Additional materials and equipment

Technical materials and equipment, such as scaffolding for exterior projects or anti-mould paints for damp-prone areas, can impact the overall cost. These expenses are factored into the quotation based on the project’s specific requirements.

Hourly rates for small jobs

For smaller projects or touch-up work, painters and decorators may charge an hourly rate instead of a daily rate. Hourly rates can vary depending on the complexity of the task and the location, ranging from £20 per hour to £50 or more. If the professional needs to cover their travel time it may be more expensive despite the size of the job.

How to pick a paint and decorator

Choosing the right painter and decorator for your project is another crucial element of the process, helping you to achieve the desired results – AKA transforming your Pinterest boards into a reality. Here are some practical tips to help you make the best decision.

Assess their experience and expertise

First and foremost, evaluate the painter and decorator’s experience and expertise in the field. Look for professionals with a proven track record of delivering high-quality workmanship and customer satisfaction. Consider asking for examples of past projects or client testimonials to gauge their proficiency, or head on over to their review pages online.

Check for credentials and certifications

Verify that the painter and decorator hold relevant credentials and certifications, indicating their proficiency in the trade. Certifications like those from professional associations or specialised training programs can provide assurance of their skills and commitment to industry standards.

Clarify rates and pricing structure

Discuss rates and pricing structure upfront to avoid any surprises later on. Inquire about their day rates, hourly rates (if applicable), and any additional charges for materials or equipment. Ensure that the quotation provided is comprehensive and transparent, covering all aspects of the project – we promise the effort is worth it!

Verify insurance coverage

Ensure that the painter and decorator carry adequate insurance coverage, including public liability insurance. This protects you from any potential liabilities or damages that may occur during the project – essential if, for example, you live in a flat where materials and equipment need to be carried safely through shared spaces owned by the building.

Communicate your expectations clearly

This is an important one – clearly communicate your expectations, preferences, and timelines to the painter and decorator from the outset. Discuss the scope of work, desired outcomes, and any specific requirements you may have. Open and honest communication fosters a collaborative working relationship and keeps everyone happy.

Obtain multiple quotes and compare them

We mentioned this briefly earlier on. Don’t settle for the first painter and decorator you come across. Instead, obtain multiple quotes from different professionals and compare their offerings. Consider factors such as experience, pricing, timeline, and rapport before making a decision. Remember, the cheapest option isn’t always the best choice – prioritise quality and reliability.

Trust your instincts

Lastly, trust your instincts when selecting a painter and decorator. Pay attention to their professionalism, responsiveness, and willingness to address your concerns. A good rapport and mutual trust are essential for a successful collaboration, so choose someone you feel comfortable working with. After all, a red flag is never worth ignoring – whether that’s in the dating pool or finding the right tradie to turn your house into a home.

A recap on painter & decorator day rate

Understanding the painter and decorator day rate of the professionals in your area is essential for making informed decisions about your painting project. Whether you choose to go DIY or hire a specialist, weighing the costs and benefits is crucial. By considering factors such as project complexity, paint quality, and budgetary constraints, you can achieve a stunning result that enhances your space.

Ready to embark on your painting journey? Explore our range of paints and accessories along with our decorating tutorials to get started on the right foot.