Painting Labor Cost Calculator
Estimate the labor cost to paint a room or surface based on dimensions, number of coats, and hourly labor rate.
Formulas Used
Gross Wall Area = 2 × (Length + Width) × Height
Net Wall Area = Gross Wall Area − (Doors × 20 sq ft) − (Windows × 15 sq ft)
Ceiling Area = Length × Width
Total Paintable Area = Net Wall Area + Ceiling Area
Total Paint Area = Total Paintable Area × Number of Coats
Total Man-Hours = Total Paint Area ÷ Productivity (sq ft/hr)
Elapsed Hours = Total Man-Hours ÷ Number of Painters
Total Labor Cost = Total Man-Hours × Labor Rate ($/hr)
Cost per Sq Ft = Total Labor Cost ÷ Total Paintable Area
Assumptions & References
- Standard door opening deduction: 20 sq ft (approx. 3 ft × 6.67 ft) per door.
- Standard window opening deduction: 15 sq ft (approx. 3 ft × 5 ft) per window.
- Default painter productivity: 150 sq ft/hr for smooth interior walls; rough or textured surfaces may reduce this to 100 sq ft/hr or less.
- Productivity accounts for cutting in, rolling, and minor prep; it does not include heavy surface repair, priming bare drywall, or moving furniture.
- Typical residential labor rates range from $25–$75/hr depending on region and experience (Painting Contractors Association, 2023).
- Two coats are standard for most interior repaint jobs; new construction or color changes may require a primer coat in addition.
- Ceiling painting is included at the same productivity rate as walls; coffered or vaulted ceilings may require a lower productivity estimate.
- This calculator estimates labor only; paint, primer, tape, drop cloths, and equipment costs are not included.
- Reference: Painting and Decorating Contractors of America (PDCA) production rate guidelines.