How Painting Contractors Can Create Winning Bids and Estimates
- Nate Jones
- Sep 26
- 3 min read
Creating accurate and compelling bids is one of the most important skills a painting contractor can master. Whether you're bidding on residential touch-ups or large commercial projects, your estimate needs to be competitive, clear, and profitable.
In this guide, we’ll break down how painting contractors can create winning bids and estimates, highlight tools and strategies that make the process easier, and explain how Contractor Back Office and Wexford Insurance support your business behind the scenes.
🎯 Why Winning Bids Matter for Painting Contractors
A well-crafted bid helps you:
Stand out from competitors
Build trust with clients
Avoid underpricing or overpromising
Ensure profitability
Win repeat business
Learn more about painting contractor bidding strategies
Strategies for Painting Contractors to Win Bids and Estimates
📋 1. Understand the Scope of Work
Before estimating, clarify:
Surface area to be painted
Prep work required (e.g., sanding, priming)
Type of paint and finishes
Number of coats
Timeline and crew size
Accurate scoping prevents surprises and ensures your bid reflects the actual workload.
💰 2. Calculate Labor Costs Precisely
Labor is often the largest expense. Consider:
Hourly rates for painters
Time required per room or square foot
Travel time and setup
Overtime or weekend rates
Use historical data or time-tracking tools to improve accuracy.
🧱 3. Include Material Costs with Markups
List all materials, including:
Paint and primer
Brushes, rollers, tape
Drop cloths and ladders
Safety gear
Add a markup to cover procurement time and ensure profitability.
📈 4. Factor in Overhead and Profit Margin
Don’t forget to include:
Insurance premiums
Equipment maintenance
Marketing and admin costs
Desired profit margin (typically 10–30%)
This ensures your business remains sustainable and scalable.
🧾 5. Present a Clear, Professional Estimate
Your estimate should include:
Company branding
Detailed scope of work
Itemized costs
Payment terms
Validity period of the quote
Professional presentation builds trust and increases acceptance rates.
🔄 6. Offer Tiered Pricing Options
Give clients choices:
Basic package (standard paint, minimal prep)
Premium package (high-end finishes, full prep)
Add-ons (accent walls, trim, exterior touch-ups)
This helps clients feel in control and can increase your average job value.
📊 7. Use Estimating Software for Accuracy
Generate fast, accurate estimates
Save templates for repeat jobs
Track approval status
Convert estimates into invoices
📅 8. Follow Up Professionally After Sending the Bid
Don’t let your estimate sit idle. Follow up:
Within 24–48 hours
With a friendly email or call
Offering to answer questions or adjust scope
Timely follow-ups show professionalism and increase your chances of winning the job.
🤝 How Contractor Back Office Supports Painting Contractors
Contractor Back Office helps painting contractors streamline bidding and estimating by offering:
CRM Integration – Track leads and follow-ups
Estimate Templates – Create branded, professional quotes
Job Costing Support – Analyze profitability before bidding
Financial Reporting – Monitor margins and overhead
Our support ensures your bids are not only competitive — but profitable.
🛡️ Why Painting Contractors Need Insurance from Wexford
Every bid you win comes with risk. That’s why Wexford Insurance offers tailored coverage for painting contractors, including:
General Liability Insurance – Protects against property damage or injury claims
Workers’ Compensation – Covers employee injuries on the job
Tools & Equipment Coverage – Safeguards your gear from theft or damage
Commercial Auto Insurance – Covers vehicles used for business operations
Insurance ensures that your business stays protected while you focus on growth.
🧠 Conclusion
Creating winning bids and estimates for painting contractors requires a mix of precision, professionalism, and strategy. With the right tools, support from Contractor Back Office, and protection from Wexford Insurance, you can confidently bid on jobs that grow your business and boost your bottom line.
