Got a painting estimate that seems too good to be true? Sadly, it probably is.
Professional Perth painters work hard to build and maintain a reputation for high-quality workmanship and service excellence. However, as in any industry, there are always some who are looking to take advantage of customers who don’t know any better. That’s why it’s important to stay vigilant, do your research, and learn how to spot the red flags.
Painters aren’t competing on price in the current market. If you’ve received an extra-low painting estimate, these are the issues you should be thinking about.
What To Look For in a Painting Estimate
A detailed painting estimate is very useful for understanding exactly what you’re paying for. This is important even if the quote is low – in fact, it’s probably more important because a low quote may indicate corner cutting, substandard paint products, and work carried out by unqualified tradespeople.
Here’s what to look for in a painting estimate – and if it’s not there, the questions you should be asking!
Painting Prep
Good surface preparation is crucial in any painting job. Without it, the overall finish of your paintwork can be seriously compromised. If the surfaces to be painted are old, damaged, uneven or generally in poor condition, slapping paint over the top without any prep is a one-way ticket to a DIY finish. Why would you pay a painter for that?
Proper surface preparation is essential for:
- achieving a smooth and even finish
- the overall durability and longevity of the paintwork
- preventing peeling and bubbling caused by poor paint adhesion.
Check your painting estimate carefully for information about painting prep. The estimate should include a robust preparation process, customised to the specific requirements and condition of your space. If it’s not included in the estimate, it could mean they don’t plan to prep, leaving you at risk of poor results. Alternatively, surface prep may be a surprise add-on charge at the completion of the project. Neither outcome is ideal, so don’t be afraid to ask questions and get clarity before the project is locked in.
Project Timeline
A professional painting project should have a timeline with a clear start and finish date. If your painter doesn’t provide a timeline, it’s a good idea to ask for clarification.
Every job is different, but a quick internet search about the typical time it takes to complete a painting job similar to yours will give you an idea of what to expect. e.g. How long does it take professional painters to paint a 3BR house?
If your painter gives you an estimated timeline that seems too quick, ask them how they plan to get the project done so fast without compromising on quality. If the timeline seems longer than expected, ask how many other jobs your painter is working on. Will yours be a priority, or will it slip between the cracks?
Paint Products
One of the most common places where substandard painters cut corners is with the products they use. However, if cutting costs on paint products ultimately results in paintwork that not only looks underwhelming but that deteriorates rapidly, leading to premature repainting, have you actually saved?
Before you accept a low painting estimate, find out what paint products will be used. Remember, not all paint is created equal. Cheap paint brands will reduce your painting quote, but they won’t promise quality. Sometimes, cheap paints are made in countries with ambiguous regulations or standards that are well below those followed by local manufacturers.
Possible issues with cheap paint include:
- poor coverage requiring more coats (so you’re paying for additional paint and labour)
- a low-quality and/or uneven finish
- a less durable finish and colour that is quick to fade
- more likely to chip, crack, bubble and peel
- the presence of harmful chemicals, including high levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that release dangerous fumes that can compromise your health.
In addition to confirming paint brands, ask the painter to list which paint products will be used, including primers and other coatings. For instance, painting the exterior of a Perth home requires the use of coatings that offer protection against the harsh climate. High-quality paint that’s fit for purpose is the key to a professional finish that provides excellent longevity.
Qualifications, Past Projects and Reviews
Anyone can call themselves a professional painter, but a real pro can prove it. Look for evidence of your painter’s skills and the results they deliver. Painters are unlikely to include all the info below on an estimate, but the more you can find out about the Perth painters you intend to hire, the greater chance you have of selecting a true professional who will provide genuine value for money.
- Ask for references from previous customers.
- Read online reviews.
- Check out their website portfolio – or ask to see photos of their previous work.
- Check that the business website has an ABN, street address and phone number listed.
- Are the painters fully qualified and registered?
- Ask about insurance coverage and work guarantees.
- Do they have Dulux Accreditation?
- Are they Master Painters?
If you’ve selected a Perth painting company that advertises itself as fully qualified but the labour costs seem unusually low, it could be because the work will be carried out by an apprentice or an unqualified labourer. It’s worth asking who will be carrying out the works to ensure you’re getting the highest quality service possible.
Don’t Let a Low Painting Quote Cost You!
Paintwork can make or break the aesthetic appeal of a home or commercial space. It is a sizable financial investment, but that’s all the more reason to get it done properly. It’s not worth compromising on quality – especially when the risk is that it will cost you more in the long run!
If you’re looking for high-quality painting at reasonable—but not risky—prices, it’s time to contact Perth’s most experienced professional painters.
