Saving Money on Home Painting

1. Plan Your Painting Project in Advance

One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is jumping into a painting project without a clear plan. A lack of preparation can lead to unnecessary expenses on extra materials, last-minute purchases, or even redoing sections that didn’t turn out right.

How to Save:

• Measure the walls and ceilings to calculate how much paint you’ll actually need.
• Plan the color scheme beforehand to avoid buying extra paint due to indecision.
• Consider a phased approach—start with high-traffic areas and tackle other rooms over time.

2. Choose the Right Paint for Your Needs

While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest paint available, low-quality paint often requires more coats, leading to increased costs in the long run. A good balance between affordability and durability is key.

How to Save:

• Opt for high-quality paint with better coverage. A slightly more expensive option may require fewer coats, reducing the amount needed.
• Look for paint-and-primer combos. This eliminates the need for an extra purchase.
• Consider store-brand paints. Many major retailers offer high-quality, affordable alternatives to premium brands.

3. Take Advantage of Paint Sales and Discounts

Paint prices fluctuate throughout the year, and savvy homeowners know when to buy.

How to Save:

• Watch for seasonal sales. Many home improvement stores offer discounts around spring and fall when home renovations peak.
• Check for clearance or mis-tinted paints. Many stores sell returned or mis-mixed paints at a significant discount—great if you’re flexible on colors.
• Use coupons and loyalty programs. Many paint suppliers offer membership discounts or rebates.

4. DIY Where Possible, but Know Your Limits

Hiring a professional can be costly, but taking on a painting project yourself can save a significant amount. However, knowing which tasks to handle yourself and when to call in a pro is crucial.

How to Save:

• DIY simple projects like interior walls, doors, and trim.
• Leave specialized tasks such as exterior painting, ceilings, and detailed trim work to professionals to avoid costly mistakes.
• Invest in good tools (rollers, brushes, painter’s tape) so you don’t waste paint due to poor application.

5. Prep Your Walls the Right Way

Many homeowners overlook the importance of preparation, which can lead to costly rework later.

How to Save:

• Clean walls thoroughly before painting—dirt and grease can cause paint to adhere poorly, leading to more coats.
• Fill in holes and cracks yourself with inexpensive spackle rather than hiring a handyman.
• Use painter’s tape sparingly—cut costs by using a steady hand and proper edging techniques.

6. Optimize Paint Usage and Reduce Waste

A little goes a long way when painting efficiently. Many homeowners waste paint due to improper application or leftover product that goes unused.

How to Save:

• Use the right tools. Rollers cover large areas with less paint than brushes.
• Store leftover paint properly to use for touch-ups instead of buying new cans.
• Mix partial cans of leftover paint to create a unique shade for smaller projects instead of buying new paint.

7. Consider Accent Walls Instead of Full-Room Painting

Want to refresh a room but don’t want to repaint the entire space? An accent wall can add a modern touch with minimal paint and effort.

How to Save:

• Choose a bold color for one wall instead of painting all four, saving on paint costs.
• Use wallpaper remnants or stencils for a creative design without needing a full can of paint.

8. Borrow or Rent Equipment Instead of Buying

If you don’t paint often, purchasing new equipment for a one-time project might not be the best investment.

How to Save:

• Borrow brushes, rollers, and ladders from friends or neighbors instead of buying new ones.
• Rent professional sprayers or power washers if needed—cheaper than purchasing high-end tools.
• Clean and reuse supplies like paint trays and roller covers instead of discarding them after one use.

9. Get Multiple Quotes for Professional Painting Services

If you decide to hire a contractor, don’t settle for the first quote you receive.

How to Save:

• Compare estimates from at least three different painting companies in Edmonton.
• Ask about discounts for booking during off-peak seasons.
• Negotiate costs by handling small prep work (like moving furniture) yourself.

10. Maintain Your Paint Job to Extend Its Life

One of the easiest ways to save on home painting is to ensure your current paint lasts as long as possible.

How to Save:

• Clean painted surfaces regularly to prevent buildup that requires repainting.
• Use touch-up paint for small scuffs instead of repainting an entire wall.
• Invest in high-quality, washable paints for high-traffic areas to reduce wear and tear.