COST ESTIMATION FOR PAINTING WORKS

Module No. 1 of 5 modules

Construction Cost Engineering

CLETO P. DALMACIO
CP# 09293948896
Email Add: [email protected]

Engineering Department

First Semester, School Year 2025-2026

 INTRODUCTION
Painting works are an essential component of construction and renovation
projects, enhancing both the aesthetic appeal and durability of structures. Cost
estimation for painting works is improtant for budgeting, resource allocation, and
ensuring project feasibility. This module provides a comprehensive guide to
estimating the cost of painting works accurately, considering factors such as
material costs, labor expenses, surface preparation, and application methods.

The number of hours allotted for this module shall be 1 hour. You are expected to
finish the module in this week.

LEARNING OUTCOMES
At the end of the module, the students should be able to:
1. Understand the importance of cost estimation in painting works.
2. Identify the key factors affecting painting costs.
3. Calculate material and labor costs for a painting project.
4. Develop a cost estimation plan for various painting scenarios.
5. Utilize standard formulas and industry practices for accurate estimation.

PRETEST

Let us test your knowledge in this module. Multiple-choice Test. Select your
best answer from the options for each question or statement and write your answer
on a separate sheet of short bond paper. Take note of your answers that you are
not sure of, so you can discover their answers as you go through the module.

1. What is the primary purpose of cost estimation in painting works?

a) To increase expenses b) To ensure proper budgeting and resource allocation
c) To reduce labor requirements d) To eliminate surface preparation

2. Which of the following is NOT a factor affecting painting costs?

a) Surface condition b) Type of paint used
c) Color preference of the ownerd) Labor cost

3. How is the surface area to be painted typically measured?

a) In liters b) In square meters c) In kilograms d) In hours

4. What is the estimated paint coverage per liter for a smooth surface?
a) 5-7 square meters b) 8-10 square meters c) 12-14 square meters
d) 20-25 square meters

5. Which type of labor is typically more expensive?

a) Unskilled labor b) Skilled labor c) Volunteer labor d) Intern labor

6. Which of the following is a direct cost in painting works?

a) Supervisor salary b) Paint and primer c) Office rental d)
Marketing expenses

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7. Why is surface preparation important before painting?
a) To increase paint consumption b) To ensure better adhesion and
longevity
c) To reduce labor costs d) To decrease project duration

8. Which tool is commonly used for painting large areas?

a) Brush b) Roller c) Sponge d) Chisel

9. What does a cost estimation report include?

a) Only labor costs b) Only material costs c) A detailed breakdown of all
costs d) The names of project workers

10. What is a common mistake in cost estimation?

a) Underestimating the required materials b) Overestimating labor rates
c) Ignoring environmental conditions d) All of the above

11. What is the function of a primer in painting?

a) To add color depth b) To prepare the surface and improve adhesion
c) To reduce the cost of paint d) To replace the need for a final coat

12. What factor does NOT affect labor costs?

a) Work experienceb) Paint brand c) Job complexity d) Project location

13. Which estimation method relies on previous project data?

a) Detailed estimation b) Analogous estimation c) Parametric estimation
d) Probabilistic estimation

14. Why should contingency costs be included in an estimate?

a) To increase profit margin b) To account for unexpected expenses
c) To lower initial cost projections d) To comply with government regulations

15. What is a common software tool for cost estimation?

a) Photoshop b) Excel c) AutoCAD d) Word Processor

16. What is the purpose of a painting cost database?

a) To store project blueprints b) To track changes in paint prices and labor rates
c) To manage payroll d) To document weather conditions

17. How does weather affect painting cost estimates?

a) It has no effect b) It impacts drying time and labor efficiency

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c) It only affects interior painting d) It reduces the need for surface
preparation

18. What is a key characteristic of cost-effective painting?

a) Using the cheapest materials available b) Balancing quality and cost
efficiency
c) Eliminating the need for skilled labor d) Ignoring surface preparation

19. What should be done if an estimate is too high?

a) Reduce material quality drastically b) Reevaluate and optimize resource
allocation
c) Remove surface preparation steps d) Ignore the estimate and proceed

20. What is the main goal of cost estimation in painting projects?

a) To minimize cost at all expenses b) To ensure efficiency and cost-
effectiveness
c) To prolong project duration d) To avoid hiring skilled workers

Lesson 1: Fundamentals of Cost Estimation for Painting Works

Objectives:
At the end of the lesson, the students should be able to:
1. Define cost estimation and understand its purpose in painting projects.
2. Identify the different types of painting works.
3. Explain the basic components of painting costs.

LET’S ENGAGE
Think-Pair-Share Activity:
 Think about a recent painting project you’ve seen or worked on. What
factors do you think influenced its cost?
 Pair up with a classmate and discuss your ideas.
 Share your insights with the group.
LET’S TALK ABOUT IT
1. Definition and Purpose of Cost Estimation
What is Cost Estimation?
Cost estimation is the process of predicting the total expenses involved in a
project, including materials, labor, and other associated costs.
Purpose of Cost Estimation in Painting Works:
Budget Planning: Ensures proper financial allocation for the project.
Resource Management: Helps in procuring the right amount of materials and
labor.

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 Project Efficiency: Prevents delays caused by insufficient supplies or
underestimated costs.
Cost Control: Helps avoid overspending while maintaining quality.
2. Types of Painting Works
Painting works can be categorized into different types based on their
application and purpose:
Interior Painting – Applied to walls and ceilings inside buildings. Focuses on
aesthetics and protection.
Exterior Painting – Used on outer walls, requiring weather-resistant paints.
Industrial Painting – Applied to machinery, pipelines, and metal structures to
prevent corrosion.
Decorative Painting – Involves special techniques like textures, murals, and
faux finishes for artistic appeal.

3. Basic Components of Painting Costs

The cost of a painting project is influenced by several key components:
Material Costs:
Paint, primer, sealers, and finishing coatings.
Brushes, rollers, sprayers, and other tools.
Labor Costs:
Skilled and unskilled labor for surface preparation and painting.
Time required to complete the project.
Surface Preparation Costs:
Cleaning, sanding, filling cracks, and applying primers.
Ensures durability and adhesion of the paint.
Overhead and Miscellaneous Costs:
Transportation of materials.
Equipment rental, protective gear, and site preparation expenses.

Lesson 2: Factors Affecting Painting Costs

Objectives:
By the end of this lecture, the students should be able to:
1. Understand how surface area and condition affect painting costs.
2. Identify the role of paint type, materials, and tools in cost estimation.
3. Explain labor requirements and their impact on pricing.
4. Recognize the importance of environmental and site conditions in painting
projects.

Let’s Engage!
Think & Discuss:

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 Have you ever observed a painting project (house, building, or industrial
site)?
What do you think determines how much the project will cost?
Share your thoughts with the group.

Let’s Talk About It!

1. Surface Area and Condition
The total surface area to be painted is one of the most significant factors in
estimating cost.
 Larger areas require more paint, labor, and time.
 Condition of the surface matters:
o New, smooth surfaces require minimal preparation.
o Rough, damaged, or old surfaces need cleaning, sanding, and priming,
which increases costs.
Example: A newly built wall will cost less to paint than an old wall with cracks and
peeling paint.

2. Type of Paint and Materials

Different paints and materials impact both quality and cost.
Types of Paint:
 Oil-based paints – More durable but expensive and take longer to dry.
 Water-based paints (latex) – Quick-drying, cost-effective, and easy to apply.
 Specialty paints – Anti-mold, heat-resistant, or metallic paints cost more.
Other Materials:
 Primers, sealants, and finishes add to expenses but ensure long-lasting
results.
Tip: Choosing the right type of paint prevents repainting and reduces long-term
costs.

3. Labor Requirements and Rates

The number of workers and their skill levels affect project expenses.
Types of Labor:
Unskilled labor: Low cost but may affect quality.
Skilled labor: Expensive but ensures a professional finish.
Factors Affecting Labor Costs:
Complexity of the project (detailed designs cost more).
Working conditions (heights, safety risks, and accessibility).
Project timeline (faster work may require more workers).

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Example: A simple one-color paint job costs less than a multi-textured decorative
painting.

4. Equipment and Tools Needed

Proper tools ensure efficiency and quality in painting projects.
Common Painting Tools:
Brushes – for detailed areas.
Rollers – for covering large surfaces quickly.
Sprayers – for smooth and even coatings.
Additional Equipment:
Scaffolding and ladders for high areas.
Safety gear such as masks and gloves.
Tip: High-quality tools can reduce material waste and improve efficiency.

5. Environmental and Site Conditions

Weather and location impact painting costs and project timelines.
Weather Conditions:
High humidity slows drying time and affects paint adhesion.
Extreme heat or cold can cause paint defects like cracking or peeling.
Windy conditions make spray painting difficult and wasteful.
Site Accessibility:
Hard-to-reach areas (high-rise buildings, narrow spaces) require special
equipment and increase labor costs.
Example: Painting in dry, moderate temperatures produces the best results with
minimal delays.

Lesson 3: Calculating Material Costs

Objectives:
By the end of this lecture, the students should be able to:
1. Determine the surface area to be painted for accurate estimation.
2. Estimate paint coverage per liter based on manufacturer specifications.
3. Calculate the quantity of primers, paints, and coatings needed for the project.
4. Estimate the cost of auxiliary materials such as brushes, rollers, and masking
tape.
Let’s Engage:
Have you ever run out of paint in the middle of a project?
Have you overestimated and ended up with extra paint?
What factors do you think affect the amount of paint needed?
Let’s Talk About It:
1. Determining the Surface Area to be Painted

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  Measure the length and height of walls (for rectangular surfaces: Area =
Length × Height).
 For ceilings or floors: Area = Length × Width.
 Subtract windows, doors, or unpainted sections from the total area.
 Consider texture and material (rough surfaces require more paint).
2. Estimating Paint Coverage per Liter
 Check the manufacturer's specification (e.g., 10-12 m² per liter per coat).
 Factor in the number of coats needed (usually two coats for best results).
 Adjust for surface type: porous surfaces absorb more paint.
3. Quantity Estimation of Primers, Paints, and Coatings
 Primer is often needed for new or porous surfaces.
 Paint quantity = (Total surface area / Paint coverage per liter) × Number of
coats.
 Additional coatings (sealants or protective layers) may be required for
durability.
4. Cost of Auxiliary Materials
 Brushes & Rollers: Prices vary based on size and quality.
 Masking Tape: Essential for sharp edges and preventing spills.
 Paint Thinner & Cleaning Supplies: Necessary for oil-based paints.
 Other materials: Drop cloths, ladders, and protective gear.

Lesson 4: Estimating Labor Costs

Objectives:
By the end of this lecture, the students should be able to:
1. Understand labor productivity rates for different painting tasks.
2. Calculate the cost of labor per hour or per square meter.
3. Differentiate between skilled and unskilled labor costs and their impact on
project budgeting.
4. Identify safety and compliance requirements that influence labor expenses.
Let’s Engage:
Have you ever estimated labor costs for a painting project?
What factors do you think affect labor productivity?
Why do skilled workers charge more than unskilled workers?
Let’s Talk About It:
1. Labor Productivity Rates for Different Painting Tasks
Manual Brush or Roller Painting
 Walls (smooth surface): 8–12 m² per hour per worker
 Ceilings: 6–10 m² per hour per worker
 Textured surfaces (e.g., concrete, brick, rough plaster): 4–8 m² per
hour per worker
 Metal surfaces: 5–10 m² per hour per worker

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 Spray Painting (Airless Sprayer)
 Walls and ceilings: 15–30 m² per hour per worker
 Metal surfaces: 12–20 m² per hour per worker
 Textured surfaces: 10–15 m² per hour per worker
Factors Affecting Productivity
 Surface Preparation: Cleaning, priming, and patching holes may reduce
painting time.
 Weather Conditions: High humidity or cold temperatures can slow
down drying and application.
 Scaffolding or Ladder Use: Reduces efficiency compared to ground-
level work.
 Experience Level: Skilled painters work faster with better quality.
2. Cost Per Hour or Per Square Meter
1. Labor Cost
 Per Square Meter (m²): Labor charges typically range from ₱50 to ₱100 per
m².
 Per Hour: The average hourly wage for painters is approximately ₱76.86.
2. Total Painting Cost (Labor and Materials)
 Comprehensive painting services, encompassing both labor and materials,
generally cost between ₱500 to ₱700 per m².
3. Factors Influencing Costs
 Surface Preparation: Additional tasks like cleaning, patching, or priming can
increase costs.
 Paint Quality: Premium paints offer better durability but come at a higher
price.
 Project Complexity: Intricate designs or hard-to-reach areas may require
more labor and time.
 Location: Urban areas might have higher labor rates compared to rural
regions.

3. Skilled vs. Unskilled Labor Cost Considerations

Skilled Labor: Higher cost but faster work, better quality, and lower rework.
Unskilled Labor: Lower cost but may need supervision and more time.
Impact on Project:
Hiring skilled labor increases efficiency but raises labor costs.
Using unskilled labor may require more paint and longer work hours.
 Balancing skill level and cost is key to maintaining quality while controlling
expenses.

4. Safety and Compliance Requirements Affecting Labor Costs

Protective Equipment (PPE): Hard hats, masks, gloves, and harnesses.

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 Training & Certification: Special coatings or high-altitude work may require
certified workers.
Regulatory Compliance: Adhering to OSHA or local safety laws increases labor
costs but ensures workplace safety.
Insurance & Liability: Covering workers in case of accidents adds to overall
labor expenses.
 Investing in safety reduces risks and potential project delays due to injuries
or fines.

Lesson 5: Cost Estimation Methods and Tools

Objectives:
By the end of this lecture, the students should be able to:
1. Understand manual estimation techniques and their applications.
2. Explore the use of estimation software and spreadsheets for accuracy.
3. Utilize industry standard references and cost databases to streamline
estimates.
4. Identify common estimation errors and learn strategies to avoid them.
Let’s Engage:
Have you ever made a cost estimate for a project?
What challenges did you face in making accurate estimates?
How do you think technology can improve the estimation process?
Let’s Talk About It:
1. Manual Estimation Techniques
Manual estimation is the traditional way of calculating material and labor
costs based on experience and standard formulas. It involves:

 Measuring Surface Area → Length × Height (for walls) or Length × Width (for
ceilings/floors).
 Determining Paint Coverage → Checking the manufacturer’s coverage per
liter.
Calculating Labor Requirements → Using productivity rates (e.g., 8–10
m²/hour for rolling).
 Summing Material and Labor Costs → Adding auxiliary materials like brushes,
rollers, and masking tape.
 Manual estimation is cost-effective but requires experience and careful
calculations to avoid errors.

2. Use of Estimation Software and Spreadsheets

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 Digital tools improve accuracy, speed, and data management. Common
methods include:
 Spreadsheets (Excel, Google Sheets):
Automated formulas for cost calculations.
Pre-set templates for quick input of measurements.
 Estimation Software (PlanSwift, Bluebeam, CostX):
Digital takeoff tools for precise area measurements.
Integration with cost databases for real-time pricing.
Adjustments for waste factors and multiple coating layers.
 Using software minimizes human error and enhances efficiency, especially for
large-scale projects.

3. Industry Standard References and Cost Databases

To ensure accuracy, estimators rely on standardized data sources:
 Construction Cost Manuals (e.g., RSMeans, National Construction Estimator)
→ Industry benchmarks for labor and material pricing.
 Manufacturer Guides → Paint coverage specifications and recommended
applications.
 Historical Data & Market Trends → Reviewing past project costs and inflation
rates.
 Online Cost Databases (e.g., BCI, Buildsoft) → Up-to-date pricing on materials
and labor.
 Using reliable sources ensures estimates are realistic and competitive.
4. Common Errors and How to Avoid Them
Even experienced estimators make mistakes. Here are common pitfalls and
solutions:
Common Error How to Avoid It
Incorrect Measurements Double-check all dimensions before
calculations
Ignoring Surface Preparation Costs Include sanding, priming, and cleaning
in estimates
Underestimating Paint Waste Add 10-15% extra for rough surfaces
and multiple coasts
Neglecting Labor Variability Adjust productivity rates based on
worker skill
Forgetting Auxiliary Materials List all items (brushes, rollers, tapes,
thinners)
Not Accounting for Market Fluctuations Use real-time pricing from suppliers or
cost database

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  Thorough checking and validation help in preventing costly estimation
mistakes.

IT’S YOUR TURN:

Answer the following question below. Use clean sheet of bond paper for your answer
sheet to be submitted.

Exercise 1: A painting project requires 150m² to be painted.

 A skilled worker can paint 10m² per hour, while an unskilled worker paints
7m² per hour.
 The skilled worker costs P150/hour, and the unskilled worker costs
P100/hour.

Questions:

1. How many hours will each worker type take to complete the job?
2. What is the total labor cost for using only skilled workers?
3. What is the total labor cost for using only unskilled workers?
4. What would be the best cost-efficient approach?

Exercise 2: A contractor is estimating the paint required for a 12m x 3m wall.

1. Calculate the total surface area.
2. If 1 liter of paint covers 10m² per coat, estimate how many liters are needed for
two coats.

Exercise 3: Compare two cost estimation methods for a 250m² painting job:

Manual Calculation: Using labor and material costs per square meter.
Software (Excel/Estimation App): Use an estimation tool to input area, paint
coverage, labor cost, and other materials.
Questions:
Which method was faster?
Which method was more accurate?
What were the differences in estimated costs, if any?

Exercise 4: Prepare a detailed cost breakdown for painting a 200m² office space.

Materials:
Paint cost: P180/liter (Coverage: 12m² per liter per coat).
Brushes, rollers, masking tape: P120 total.
Labor:
1 skilled painter: P80/hour (Productivity: 12m²/hour).
1 unskilled assistant: P60/hour (Productivity: 8m²/hour).
Miscellaneous Costs: P 150 (safety gear, site preparation).
Questions:
How many liters of paint are needed for two coats?
Calculate total labor cost if the job takes two days (8 hours/day).
Present the full cost breakdown in a table format.

Rubric:
Points Criteria
5 (100%) - completeness

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 - organization
- cleanliness
- correctness of answer
- consistency
4 (80%) - four of the elements listed for 5 pts are
evident
3 (60%) - three of the elements listed for 5 pts are
evident
2 (40%) - two of the elements listed for 5 pts are
evident
1 (20%) - only one element listed for 5 pts is evident
0 - no attempt

POST ASSESMENT
Multiple-choice Test. Select your best answer from the options for each question or
statement and write your answer on a separate sheet of short bond paper. Submit
your answers thru my email address.
1. What is the primary purpose of cost estimation in painting projects?
a) To increase project costs
b) To ensure proper budget allocation
c) To make the project more complex
d) To avoid using skilled labor

2. Which of the following is NOT a type of painting work?

a) Interior painting
b) Exterior painting
c) Agricultural painting
d) Industrial painting

3. What is NOT a basic component of painting costs?

a) Material costs
b) Labor costs
c) Advertising costs
d) Surface preparation costs

4. Which type of paint is most suitable for outdoor use?

a) Water-based paint
b) Oil-based paint
c) Weather-resistant paint
d) Latex paint

5. Which of the following is NOT considered an overhead cost?

a) Transportation of materials
b) Equipment rental
c) Cost of paint
d) Protective gear

6. Why does the condition of a surface affect painting costs?

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a) Rough surfaces require more preparation
b) Smooth surfaces need more coats
c) Old walls cost less to paint
d) Surface condition has no impact

7. What type of paint is more expensive but offers higher durability?

a) Water-based paint
b) Oil-based paint
c) Latex paint
d) Basic acrylic paint

8. Which labor type is generally more cost-effective but may affect quality?
a) Skilled labor
b) Unskilled labor
c) Certified labor
d) Project managers

9. Why do high humidity conditions affect painting costs?

a) Paint dries faster
b) Paint takes longer to dry
c) Less paint is needed
d) Labor costs decrease

10. What is a common tool used for large surface areas?

a) Brush
b) Roller
c) Sprayer
d) Both b and c

11. How do you calculate the surface area of a rectangular wall?

a) Length × Width
b) Length × Height
c) Width × Height
d) Length + Height

12. If a paint covers 10 m² per liter and you need to apply two coats, how many
liters are required for a 50 m² wall?
a) 5 liters
b) 10 liters
c) 20 liters
d) 15 liters

13. Which of the following auxiliary materials is NOT necessary for painting?
a) Masking tape
b) Paint roller
c) Screwdriver
d) Drop cloth
14. What is the purpose of a primer?
a) To make the wall shiny
b) To protect the surface before painting
c) To reduce the number of coats needed
d) Both b and c

15. If the paint manufacturer states that one liter covers 8 m² and the surface area
is 64 m² with two coats needed, how many liters are required?
a) 8 liters
b) 12 liters
c) 16 liters
d) 20 liters

16. What is the estimated labor productivity for smooth wall painting with a roller?

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a) 5-10 m²/hour
b) 8-12 m²/hour
c) 15-20 m²/hour
d) 3-6 m²/hour

17. What is an advantage of hiring skilled labor?

a) Lower costs
b) Faster completion with better quality
c) Requires more supervision
d) Increases the need for unskilled labor

18. What factor does NOT influence labor costs?

a) Project complexity
b) Weather conditions
c) Brand of paint used
d) Skill level of workers

19. If labor costs ₱75 per hour and a project requires 40 hours, what is the total
labor cost?
a) ₱2,000
b) ₱3,000
c) ₱4,500
d) ₱3,750

20. Which factor can reduce labor efficiency?

a) Proper safety gear
b) Inadequate scaffolding
c) Good weather conditions
d) Use of skilled labor

21. What is a traditional method of cost estimation?

a) Manual estimation
b) Software estimation
c) Automated estimation
d) Cost database estimation

22. Which tool is commonly used in digital estimation?

a) Ruler
b) Excel spreadsheets
c) Paintbrush
d) Calculator only

23. What is the purpose of using industry standard references?

a) To estimate costs based on actual data
b) To increase project expenses
c) To avoid using digital tools
d) To limit labor costs

24. What is a common error in cost estimation?

a) Underestimating labor costs
b) Overestimating material usage
c) Ignoring safety compliance
d) All of the above

25. What is the advantage of using estimation software?

a) Reduces errors and speeds up calculations
b) Increases estimation time
c) Only applies to small projects
d) Eliminates the need for labor estimates

26. If a painter measures the wrong wall dimensions, what error has occurred?

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a) Material estimation error
b) Labor miscalculation
c) Incorrect measurement
d) Safety violation

27. Why should estimators account for material waste?

a) To reduce expenses
b) To avoid running out of materials
c) To follow regulations
d) To ensure excess inventory

28. What is the recommended way to prevent cost underestimation?

a) Add 5-10% contingency to estimates
b) Reduce paint coverage estimates
c) Eliminate labor costs
d) Ignore auxiliary materials

29. Why do estimators use historical data?

a) To base cost estimates on past projects
b) To remove labor calculations
c) To avoid new technologies
d) To increase costs

30. What is an effective way to improve estimation accuracy?

a) Use standard references and updated databases
b) Avoid manual calculations
c) Increase estimation time without checking data
d) Reduce material estimates for lower cost

REFERENCES

Ameer, S. (2019). Construction cost estimating: Principles and applications.

McGraw-Hill Education.

Hegazy, T. (2018). Computer-based construction project management. Routledge.

Willis, C. J., & Willis, S. D. (2021). Construction estimating using Excel. Pearson.

Ashworth, A., & Perera, S. (2020). Cost studies of buildings (7th ed.). Routledge.

Olanrewaju, A. L., & Anavhe, J. (2019). "Effect of paint type and surface preparation
on cost estimation in building projects." International Journal of Construction
Management, 19(3), 287-299.

National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). (2022). Estimating painting costs:

Best practices and cost factors. Retrieved from https://www.nahb.org

Sherwin-Williams. (2023). Professional painting cost guide. Retrieved from

https://www.sherwin-williams.com

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