The Real Cost of DIY Painting vs. Hiring a Pro in Hampton Roads
- Bryan Prentiss
- Jun 13
- 2 min read
Is DIY Really Cheaper Than Hiring a Pro Painter?
On the surface, doing your own painting might seem like a budget-friendly way to freshen up your space. A few cans of paint, a roller, and a free weekend—what could go wrong?
The truth is, DIY painting often costs more in time, materials, and corrections than homeowners expect. When comparing it to hiring a professional painter in Hampton Roads, the decision comes down to cost-effectiveness, quality, and peace of mind.
Let’s break down the real costs of each approach.
DIY Painting: What You Actually Pay For
You may think you're saving money, but DIY painting comes with hidden costs:
🎨 Tools & Supplies
You’ll need more than just paint:
Rollers, brushes, trays, painter’s tape
Drop cloths, extension poles, ladder
Caulk, spackle, sanding blocks
These can cost $100–$300+ depending on what you already own.
⏳ Time Commitment
Expect to spend several days prepping, painting, and cleaning—longer if you have textured walls, high ceilings, or trim.
🧼 Prepping and Repairs
Professional prep is often overlooked in DIY jobs. Skipping steps like wall washing, patching, or priming can shorten your paint’s lifespan.
😬 Mistakes Cost More
Uneven coats, drips, or wrong colors? Repainting or fixing issues later adds to the expense.
Hiring a Pro: What's Included?
Professional painters bring experience, tools, and efficiency to the table. You pay for quality, but you also save in several ways:
✔️ Proper Prep and Technique
Pros handle wall repair, sanding, taping, and priming correctly—ensuring a longer-lasting finish.
🧰 Top-Tier Tools and Paint
Many professionals use high-quality paints like Sherwin-Williams or Benjamin Moore, which provide better coverage and durability.
⏱️ Fast and Efficient
A project that might take you a week can be done in a day or two by a team—without sacrificing quality.
💰 No Surprise Expenses
The quoted price includes everything, from prep to cleanup. No tool runs. No do-overs.
Hampton Roads Considerations
In the Hampton Roads area, weather and salt air can impact exterior paint longevity, making proper application and paint selection even more important. Local professionals understand these regional factors and can recommend products and timelines that work best.
DIY vs. Pro: Quick Comparison
Factor | DIY | Professional Painter |
Materials & Supplies | $150–$300+ | Included |
Time | 2–5 days per room | 1–2 days with a team |
Skill Level Needed | Moderate to High | Expert |
Finish Quality | Varies | Clean, long-lasting |
Warranty/Guarantee | None | Usually included |
Stress Level | High (especially for big jobs) | Low—you don’t lift a finger |
The Bottom Line
DIY can be rewarding for small projects or touch-ups, but for whole-room or whole-home paint jobs, hiring a professional saves time, prevents mistakes, and delivers a polished, lasting result.
If you’re in Hampton Roads and ready for a fresh coat of paint—inside or out—contact our team today for a free estimate and let’s make your space shine.
Comments