Before you call painters for quotes, it helps to know what actually drives the price of an interior painting project. Two homes of the same size can get very different estimates, and the reasons are usually easy to understand. Here are the factors we look at during every free estimate in South Jersey.
1. Size and Number of Rooms
The total wall and ceiling area is the starting point. Tall ceilings, two-story foyers and stairwells take more time because they need ladders or staging and careful cutting in.
2. Condition of the Walls
Patching nail holes is quick. Repairing cracks, water stains, nail pops or damaged drywall takes longer and may need several coats of compound with drying time in between. In older homes with plaster walls, crack repair is often a bigger part of the job. See our drywall installation and repair page for what is involved.
3. Color Changes
Repainting a similar color usually takes two coats. Going from a dark color to a light one, or covering bright accent walls, can need a primer coat or an extra finish coat.
4. What Is Included
- Walls only, or ceilings too
- Baseboards, window and door trim
- Interior doors and closets
- Stair railings, spindles and kitchen cabinets, which take the most detail work
5. Paint Quality and Finish
Better paints cost more per gallon but cover more evenly and stand up to cleaning. We usually recommend matte or flat for ceilings, eggshell or satin for most walls and semi-gloss for trim, doors and bathrooms.
6. Furniture and Access
Rooms full of furniture take longer to protect. We move and cover furniture as part of the job, but clearing small items and valuables beforehand speeds things up.
How to Compare Painting Estimates
Make sure each quote lists the same rooms, surfaces, number of coats, repairs and paint line. A lower price often means less preparation or fewer coats. Ask whether the company is registered as a New Jersey Home Improvement Contractor and insured. 7&7 Contractor LLC is registered (13VH12349500), insured and rated 4.9 from more than 125 Google reviews.
Get a Free, Written Estimate
We give free in-person estimates across Camden, Burlington and Gloucester counties. Request your estimate, call (856) 745-6288 or learn more about our interior painting services.
