When businesses plan a repaint—whether for an office, school, or industrial facility—the first question is often: “How much will it cost?” Unlike residential jobs, commercial painting services involve multiple variables that influence the final estimate. Let’s break down how professional painters in Melbourne, Victoria, NSW, and Queensland calculate project costs.
1. Size and Scope of the Project
The most obvious factor is square footage. A larger office or warehouse will naturally require more labour, materials, and time. But beyond size, scope matters:
- Is it just an interior refresh or a full exterior repaint?
- Does the project include specialized spaces (labs, healthcare areas, retail stores)?
2. Surface Preparation
Not all walls are paint-ready. Professional painters assess surface condition first:
- Does old paint need to be removed?
- Are there cracks or plaster damage?
- Is there industrial residue (in warehouses or factories)?
Preparation often accounts for 30–40% of a project’s labour time.
3. Materials and Paint Quality
Commercial projects require durable, often low-VOC paints suitable for high-traffic areas. Special coatings, anti-microbial paints for medical centers, or weatherproof exterior finishes will affect pricing.
4. Labour Requirements
Labour is a significant factor. Commercial painters may charge per square meter or per hour, depending on complexity. Large-scale projects may require multiple teams working in shifts to minimize downtime for the client.
5. Access and Safety Requirements
If painting involves high ceilings, warehouses, or multi-story buildings, access equipment such as scaffolding or boom lifts may be required. Safety compliance (PPE, signage, permits) is also built into the estimate.
6. Timeline and Scheduling
Urgent projects that need after-hours or weekend work often cost more. However, professional contractors like JSS Group work closely with businesses to minimize disruption while keeping costs fair.
Estimating a commercial painting project requires a professional approach that balances cost, quality, and compliance. At JSS Group, our commercial painters provide transparent quotes based on scope, materials, and your business needs.
