Cheap vs. Professional Painter: What You Need to Know Before Hiring

cheap vs professional painter

When it comes to painting your home or business, opting for a professional service over a cheaper alternative can make a significant difference in the longevity and appearance of the finish. At Fresh Look Painting, we emphasize quality to ensure your investment stands the test of time. Trying to decide between hiring a cheap vs professional painter? Here’s what you need to know before hiring a painter:

  1. Surface Preparation: The Foundation of a Lasting Paint Job

Proper surface preparation is crucial for paint adhesion and durability. It’s estimated that 60-80% of all coating failures are attributed to poor surface preparation.  That means that if you don’t pay more up front to have your surfaces properly prepped, you’re going to be paying later. There’s a cost – whether you need to repaint it sooner or just have to live with peeling, chipping paint, and uneven finish.

Always ask if the painters you’re looking to hire what they are doing to prepare surfaces. This may involve cleaning, patching, sanding, and sometimes priming surfaces, ensuring that paint adheres smoothly and lasts longer. “Budget” painters often skip these crucial steps, resulting in a finish that deteriorates quickly.

  1. Premium Materials: Durability and Aesthetic Appeal

Scuff-X Benjamin Moore paint

High-quality paints offer better coverage, richer colours, and superior resistance to fading and stains. While initial costs may be higher, these premium materials reduce the need for frequent touch-ups, providing long-term value. Check out this Instagram reel highlighting the benefits of using Benjamin Moore’s Scuff-X on trim. Or, if you’re looking for advice on which paint brands to choose, check out this blog.

In contrast, cheaper paints may fade or deteriorate more quickly, leading to additional expenses over time.

Are the painters you’re hiring using top-tier paints and materials designed to withstand wear and tear? High-quality paints offer better coverage, richer colours, and superior resistance to fading, stains, and moisture. Research indicates that high-quality paint can last up to 3x longer than cheaper alternatives. Low-cost painters may opt for inferior products that require more frequent touch-ups, fading quickly and looking dull within months.

  1. Attention to Detail: Crisp Lines and Flawless Finishes

clean paint edging lines

Professional painters take pride in their work, ensuring clean lines and uniform coats. They use proper techniques and tools to achieve a polished look that enhances your space. In contrast, less experienced painters may leave visible brush strokes or uneven coverage, detracting from the overall appearance. In fact, if you’re DIYing the paint job or hiring someone who isn’t as skilled, you’ll probably waste more paint – up to 30% more according to some estimates.

  1. Time and Efficiency: Getting the Job Done Right the First Time

Experienced painting teams work efficiently without compromising quality. They follow systematic processes to complete projects on time. Opting for a cheaper service may result in longer completion times and potential disruptions, especially if rework is needed due to subpar results. And if you’re paying your painters by the hour, the painter that provided the lowest quote may end up costing you more in the end; not to mention the hassle of living in a renovated space for longer than necessary.

  1. Professional Advice

A big differentiator in the battle between hiring a cheap vs professional painter is their ability to give professional, bankable advice to homeowners. From paint colour choices, to quality of paint required, to which rooms to paint, the answer depends on a lot of factors. What are the homeowners’ goals? What is the lighting like in the space? How is the space used? What are the homeowners’ design preferences? Check out our blog on 5 Painting Strategies for a Strong Sell. A professional painter should be offering you a professional paint consultation. If you’re selling your home or are landlord, it may not make sense to use the highest quality paint whereas you should invest in better paint for your forever home.

  1. Warranty and Peace of Mind

Reputable painting companies stand behind their work, offering warranties and guarantees for customer satisfaction. If issues arise, a professional team will address them promptly. In contrast, low-cost painters may not provide such assurances, leaving you with limited recourse if problems occur.

  1. Long-Term Value: Saving Money in the Long Run

41% of DIYers have admitted to completely butchering a project they tackled themselves – that includes paint jobs! That puts a whole new spin on the question of hiring a cheap vs professional painter. While a professional paint job may have a higher upfront cost, it offers better durability and reduces the need for frequent repaints. This long-term value can result in cost savings over time, as the quality work maintains its appearance and integrity for years.

Invest in Quality with Fresh Look Painting

At Fresh Look Painting, we are committed to delivering expert craftsmanship, premium materials, and exceptional customer service. Whether you’re refreshing your home or enhancing your business space, our team ensures a durable and visually stunning finish that lasts.

Don’t settle for a subpar paint job that may lead to frustration and additional costs. Choose quality. Choose Fresh Look Painting. Contact us today for a consultation and experience the