What to Compare Line by Line
A total price only tells you what you'll pay — not what you'll get. These are the things that actually differ between estimates:
- Surfaces included — walls only, or also ceilings, trim, doors, and closets?
- Preparation — how much scraping, sanding, cleaning, and patching is included?
- Repairs — which repairs are in the price, and which are extra?
- Primer — where is priming included, and where isn't it?
- Exclusions — what is specifically left out?
- Trim, doors, and ceilings — painted at the same time, or separate?
- Homeowner preparation — what are you expected to move or handle?
- Cleanup — what condition will the space be left in?
- Change orders — how are surprises and added work handled and priced?
- Licensing — is the contractor properly licensed?
- Protection of property — how are floors, furniture, and landscaping protected?
- Hidden damage — how is unexpected damage handled if it's found?
Why This Happens
A low number often means less preparation, fewer surfaces, or more exclusions — not a better deal. A higher number that includes thorough prep, repairs, and protection can be the better value because it's less likely to fail early or generate surprise costs mid-project.
What I Would Do
Ask every bidder for a written estimate and line the estimates up against each other. Look for the same surfaces, the same prep, and the same exclusions before you compare totals. If one estimate is dramatically lower, find out what it leaves out — the difference is usually in the preparation.
When I'd Call a Professional
A properly licensed contractor should be able to walk you through exactly what's included and why. Gordon's Custom Painting is licensed under MHIC #112215 and provides clear written estimates. Learn more about Gordon's or request an estimate.
Answered by Cleveland | Gordon's Custom Painting
Cleveland Gordon founded Gordon's Custom Painting in Forest Hill, Maryland in 2006. These answers reflect how the company approaches real painting work — preparation first, clear written estimates, and a job that isn't finished until the customer is satisfied. More about Gordon's.