How to use the Painting & Decorating Cost Calculator
- Enter the area to be painted in m² (or use room presets).
- Select scope (walls, ceilings, woodwork, wallpaper etc.).
- Add prep level if walls need filling, sanding or stain blocking.
- Review totals (inc VAT) and export or copy the result.
Use this for budgeting. For tender pricing or specification-driven projects, request a QS estimate with BoQ, prelims, overheads and profit, and risk allowances.
Typical painting & decorating costs (UK)
- Decorator day rate: £250–£400/day
- Hourly rate: £32–£35/hour
- Medium-sized room (indicative): ~£400
- Wallpapering: ~£14/m² (labour)
- Doors: £80–£90 each (finish dependent)
- Radiators: ~£15 each
London/South East may run higher. The calculator’s £/m² baselines align to these benchmarks and include VAT.
What drives cost up or down
- Prep level: repairs, stain block, lining paper
- Access/height: stairwells, high ceilings, scaffolds
- Paint spec: premium scrubbable emulsions, oil vs waterborne trim
- Colour/coverage: dark-to-light or brand new surfaces may need extra coats
Worked example: one medium room
Walls and ceiling to two coats, standard prep, one door and one radiator. Typical total around £400 including VAT, subject to condition and access.
Coverage & materials
A 2.5 L tin commonly covers about 35 m² with two coats (check tin data). Include caulk, filler, dust sheets and masking in your prep allowance.