Free Interior Painting Estimate Template (Excel)
Example bid in this template: $14,685 · Timeline: 1 weeks
Real-World Scenario: The 3-Bedroom Repaint
Painting Planning Ranges (illustrative)
Illustrative ranges for planning, not quotes or a published survey. Replace them with your own supplier prices and labor rates.
Materials Cost Breakdown
Direct Material| Line Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Premium Interior Latex | $1,200 | 15 Gallons @ $80/gal |
| Trim & Door Enamel | $450 | 5 Gallons @ $90/gal |
| Supplies (Tape, Paper, Plastic) | $250 | Consumables package |
| Materials Subtotal | $1,900 |
Labor Cost Breakdown
Direct Labor| Task | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Prep & Masking | $1,800 | 2-man crew, 1.5 days |
| Wall Painting (2 coats) | $3,200 | Brush & roll finish |
| Trim & Door Painting | $1,400 | Including caulking and prep |
| Labor Subtotal | $6,400 |
Markup ≠ Margin — Don't Make This Mistake
A 35% markup on $8,300 gives 26% gross margin — not 35%. To hit a true 35% gross margin, divide your cost by 0.65.
→ Verify with the Profit CalculatorFrequently Asked Questions
How do I estimate an interior painting job?
Measure the wall, ceiling and trim areas, decide on the number of coats, and price prep, wall painting and trim as separate labor lines. Add paint and supplies, then overhead, and divide by (1 minus your target margin) for the bid price.
Why is painting so labor-heavy in the estimate?
In the example, labor is roughly three quarters of direct cost, because prep, masking, patching and cutting in trim take more time than rolling walls. Under-pricing prep is the usual way painters lose margin.
Should trim and doors be priced separately?
Yes. Trim and doors take much longer per square foot than walls and use different products, so a separate line shows the customer the scope and protects your hours.
What is the difference between markup and margin?
A 35% markup on cost is not a 35% margin. To earn a true 35% gross margin, divide your cost (including overhead) by 0.65 rather than multiplying by 1.35. The calculator linked on this page lets you check both.
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