Is it worth it to paint closets?
Yes, painting a closet is a great way to brighten the space and make it easier to see your belongings. Many homeowners include it as part of a larger interior painting project to give the entire room a more finished, cohesive look. A fresh coat of paint can also protect the walls from scuffs and marks.
What kind of paint do pros use for closets?
A durable latex paint with a satin or semi-gloss finish is ideal for closets, as these finishes are easy to clean. This is a common choice for most interior painting projects because it stands up well to scuffs. Using a paint-and-primer combo can also help you get the job done faster.
You'll typically need two coats of paint for a closet. A second coat ensures an even, durable finish, though you might only need one for a similar color. Using a primer first is also smart for new drywall or a dramatic color change.
What factors impact professional closet painting costs?
Painting costs for closets vary depending on:
Closet size and type: A small reach-in closet will naturally cost less to paint than a large, custom walk-in closet.
Surface condition: If the walls have scuffs, holes, or stains, they’ll need patching, sanding, and priming before any paint goes on, which adds to the labor.
Shelving and built-ins: Painting around or removing and reinstalling shelves, rods, and drawers requires more time and detailed work from your pro.
Paint and materials: The type and quality of paint you choose will affect the material costs. Some durable, high-gloss finishes may cost more than a standard matte paint.
Project scope: The total cost can change depending on whether the job is part of a larger project or if you also need the ceiling, trim, and door painted.
Do you tip painters?
Yes, it’s best practice to tip house painters if you’re pleased with their work. Painters perform detailed, skilled work that can last for many years, if not decades.
Tipping house painters is good etiquette. You can base the tip on the size of the crew, and request the amount to be evenly divided. Or, you can leave a tip based on the size of the job and leave it up to the foreman to decide how it is distributed among the crew. Sometimes — especially with big projects — the painters on the job change during the course of the project, so it’s often customary to leave one tip for the whole job.
How much do interior painters charge per hour?
You can expect to pay $50 per hour for interior painting. This price will change depending on a number of factors and may range between $30 and $160 per hour. Some factors include the height of the rooms, the complexity of the painting and more.
For an accurate cost estimate, request quotes from local painters and contractors.
What questions should I ask a closet painting professional?
Before hiring a professional for closet painting, it's a good idea to ask these questions:
What is your experience with painting small or enclosed spaces like closets?
How will you prepare the space and protect my shelving, rods, and belongings?
What type of paint and primer do you recommend for durability and low fumes?
Can you provide a detailed quote that breaks down the costs for labor and materials?
How long do you estimate the project will take, including prep and drying time?
Are you, and any crew you work with, licensed and insured?
Do you offer a satisfaction guarantee or a warranty on your work?
How long does it take to paint a closet?
Typically, it will take a few hours to a full day for a professional to complete a closet painting project. The total time will depend on:
Size and complexity: A small, empty closet will be much quicker to paint than a large walk-in with intricate details.
Prep work needed: The timeline can be longer if the walls need significant cleaning, patching, or sanding before painting.
Shelving and fixtures: Working around or removing and reinstalling built-in shelves, drawers, and rods adds to the total time.
Color and paint type: A dramatic color change that requires a primer or multiple coats will take more time than a simple refresh.
Drying time: Each coat of paint needs adequate time to dry, which can extend the project's overall duration.
Remember: The timeline for your project will vary depending on many factors. Always ask your pro to provide an estimate.
What steps should I take before my pro arrives to paint my closet?
To prepare for your painting appointment follow these steps:
Step 1: Clear out the closet completely. Remove all clothing, shoes, storage boxes, and other items to protect your belongings and give your pro an empty space to work.
Step 2: Remove any hardware you can. If possible, take down removable closet rods, shelves, or storage systems so your pro has clear access to the walls.
Step 3: Wipe down all surfaces. Use a damp cloth to clean the walls, baseboards, and any fixed shelving to remove dust and grime.
Step 4: Clear a path for your pro. Make sure there's an unobstructed walkway from your home's entrance to the closet so they can move equipment safely.
Step 5: Plan for ventilation during and after the job. Open a nearby window or set up a fan to help with air circulation, which dissipates fumes and helps the paint dry.
