Author: Lets Upgrade Painting

Choosing the right painting contractor in Virginia can feel like a big decision. 

You want someone who’s experienced, professional, and dependable. But beyond that, you also want someone who’s easy to work with and communicates well.

With so many options out there, it’s normal to feel a little unsure about where to start. 

But don’t worry – finding the right contractor doesn’t have to be stressful.

In this post, we’ll give you some simple tips to help you pick the BEST contractor for the job.

#1 Ask Around For Recommendations

This is a big one! Word of mouth is gold. 

Ask your neighbors, friends, or family if they’ve worked with a good painter recently. Chances are, they know someone who did an awesome job and who they’d trust again. 

Recommendations can give you peace of mind and save you from doing a ton of research.

Don’t stop with just one or two suggestions, though. Get a few names and check them out. 

That way, you can compare options and get a better sense of who might be the best fit for your project.

Also Check Out Our Chesterfield Painting Services

#2 Make Sure They’re Licensed And Insured

A good painting contractor should be licensed and insured. 

This protects you and them in case anything goes wrong. 

In Virginia, contractors need a license to operate legally. This shows they’ve met certain standards. Insurance, on the other hand, means that if something gets damaged or someone gets hurt during the job, you’re not the one left holding the bag.

If a contractor doesn’t have insurance or a license, it’s a red flag. It’s just not worth the risk. 

Always ask to see proof of both.

#3 Check Their Experience And Portfolio

Next, you’ll want to check out their experience. 

How long have they been in business? More years usually mean they know their stuff. 

But don’t just take their word for it – ask for a portfolio of past work. You want to see examples of their painting projects, especially ones similar to yours.

Take note of the quality of their work. Do the lines look clean? Is the paint even? 

The attention to detail says a lot about the kind of work you can expect. 

A solid portfolio shows they’re consistent and can handle the job.

#4 Get Multiple Estimates

It’s always a good idea to get at least three estimates before committing. 

It’s not about picking the cheapest option, but it helps you get a sense of what the going rates are in your area. Plus, it gives you the chance to compare how each contractor approaches the job.

When getting estimates, be specific about the details. Discuss the size of the job, any prep work that needs to be done, and your vision for the finished product. 

This will help avoid any surprises later on when the bill comes.

Also Read: Should I Remove Popcorn Ceiling?

#5 Pay Attention To How They Communicate

From the very first conversation, pay attention to how the contractor communicates with you. 

Are they friendly and approachable? Do they answer your questions in a way that makes sense? Are they on time for meetings or calls?

Good communication can make or break a project. 

You’ll be working closely with this person, so it’s important that they are responsive, clear, and open to discussing any concerns you may have. 

If you feel like they’re not giving you the time of day or brushing you off, move on.

#6 Get Everything In Writing

Don’t leave anything to chance. Once you’ve picked a contractor, make sure to get everything in writing. This includes the project timeline, cost, and what’s expected from both sides. 

It should outline exactly what you’re paying for – like the number of coats of paint, materials, and any extra services such as prepping the walls.

A written contract protects both parties and helps avoid any confusion later on. 

If the contractor is hesitant to put things in writing, that’s a major red flag.

#7 Ask About The Paint And Techniques They Use

Not all paints are created equal, and not all painters use the same techniques. Make sure you’re on the same page about the products and techniques being used. 

Some contractors may use cheaper paints or shortcuts to speed up the job, and that’s something you’ll want to avoid.

So ask about the brands they recommend and why. 

Good painters will have their go-to brands that they trust. 

It’s also a good idea to ask about their painting techniques like are they using rollers, brushes, or sprayers? Do they take the time to prep the surfaces properly? 

A great painter will be proud of their work and will be happy to explain their process.

Also Read: Can You Skim Coat Over Wallpaper?

#8 Check How They Manage The Job Site

A good contractor should keep the job site clean and organized. 

When you’re hiring a painting crew, you want to make sure they’re respecting your home or business. Ask them how they handle the cleanup process and what steps they take to protect your furniture, floors, and other surfaces.

A messy job site can be a sign that the contractor isn’t paying attention to detail or doesn’t have a good process in place. 

Ideally, they should keep everything tidy and make sure everything is protected before they start painting.

#9 Ask About The Payment Details

Before the work begins, make sure you’re clear on how the payment process works. 

Some contractors may ask for a deposit upfront, while others prefer to be paid once the job is completed. Either way, you should know exactly when and how the payments will happen.

Avoid contractors who ask for the full amount upfront. That’s usually a warning sign. 

A reputable painter will want to ensure you’re happy with the work before asking for the rest of the payment. 

You’ll also want to know if there are any hidden fees or unexpected costs that might pop up.

#10 Trust Your Instincts

This one’s simple: trust your gut. If something feels off, listen to that feeling. 

Maybe you’re not vibing with the contractor, or maybe their estimate is way higher than the others. Whatever it is, if you’re feeling unsure, it’s okay to keep looking.

You’re going to be spending a lot of time with this person, so make sure you feel comfortable and confident that they’re the right fit for the job.

Bottom Line

Choosing a painting contractor in Virginia doesn’t have to be a headache. 

If you follow these steps, you’ll be well on your way to finding a trustworthy, skilled professional who will get the job done right. 

Just remember to do your research, ask the right questions, and trust your instincts. 

After all, a fresh coat of paint can totally transform a space, so you want to make sure the job is done by someone who cares about the details as much as you do!

Need a Painter for Your Next Project?

Check our Service Areas Below:

Richmond Henrico Glen Allen Powhatan Hanover Amelia Mechanicsville

Looking to give your home a fresh coat of paint but not sure what it’s going to cost you? 

You’re definitely not alone. The price of hiring a painter in Virginia can vary quite a bit depending on a number of different things.

In this post, we’ll go over everything that can affect how much painters charge, so you can be prepared and avoid any surprises when it’s time to get quotes.

Plus, we’ll also break down our painting prices.

Our Chesterfield Painting Prices

Check Out Our: Chesterfield Home Painting Services

Average Painter Rates In Virginia

Professional house painters in Virginia usually charge based on square footage, hourly rates, or daily rates.

On average, painters in Virginia charge $3 to $6 per square foot if they’re pricing by size, which works well for larger jobs like painting a whole house.

If they go by the hour, you’re looking at $20 to $50 per hour.

Some painters might prefer to set a daily rate, which is usually around $200 and $500 per day.

These averages are pretty standard across most projects and give you a good idea of what to expect when hiring a pro. But these will shift up or down based on the specifics of your job. 

Factors That Affect Painter Charges In Virginia

Now that you have a general idea of the prices, let’s take a closer look at the things that can really impact how much a painter will charge in Virginia:

#1 Size Of The Project

This one is pretty obvious – the bigger the area, the more you’re going to pay. 

Think about it—if you’re painting a single bedroom, it’ll take way less paint and time than if you’re painting a whole house.

And interior spaces usually cost less than exteriors because there’s less prep work and fewer things to work around (like weather or different surfaces).

Also Read: Do You Prime Before Texture?

#2 Type Of Paint And Materials Used

This one can make a big difference in price. 

Not all paints are the same, and depending on what you want, the cost can go up or down. 

High-quality paints, like those that are super durable, eco-friendly, or have specific finishes (e.g., satin, matte), will cost more.

Materials also matter —special brushes, rollers, and tools for things like textured walls or intricate trim can add to the total cost. 

And don’t forget about primer!

#3 Preparation Work Needed

Before the actual painting even starts, there’s the prep. 

If your walls are already in pretty good shape, painters can get started right away. But if there are holes to patch, peeling paint to scrape, or surfaces to sand, that’s more time and effort. 

More prep means more labor, which usually means a higher price.

Some painters even charge separately for prep work, so it’s a good idea to ask if it’s included or if it’ll be an additional cost. 

And if you’ve got a lot of cleaning to do, like washing before painting, that can also add up.

Also Read: Should I Remove Popcorn Ceiling?

#4 Difficulty And Complexity Of The Job

This one really depends on the specifics of the job. 

For example, if you’re getting a simple coat of paint on flat walls, that’s straightforward. But if you’ve got vaulted ceilings, delicate trim, or areas that are hard to reach, the job gets a lot trickier.

The more difficult it is to access certain areas or the more detailed the work, the more time and skill it’ll take. 

So, don’t be surprised if a painter charges extra for things like painting stairwells, crown molding, or special designs.

#5 Experience And Reputation

A painter with tons of experience or a great reputation is likely going to charge a bit more.

But you’re paying for their skill. Experienced painters can get the job done faster and more efficiently, which might make up for the higher price in the long run. 

They’re also usually better at handling any unexpected issues that come up.

If someone’s just starting out, they might charge less, but they might not be as quick or as precise as someone who’s been doing this for years. 

#6 Your Location

Where you live in Virginia matters a lot when it comes to pricing. 

Areas like Northern Virginia or parts of the Richmond metro area are more expensive because they’re higher-demand places with higher living costs. Painters in these areas will charge more.

If you’re in a smaller town or rural area, you’ll probably pay less. 

But keep in mind that a painter might charge extra if they have to travel far from their base location, especially if you’re in a more remote area.

Also Read: Why Opt for High-Quality Paints and Materials?

Additional Costs To Consider

Besides the actual painting, there might be some extra costs to think about. For example, painters may charge extra for things like:

• Moving furniture or covering it with protective materials
• Cleaning up afterward
• Paint samples or touch-ups
• Travel fees (if you’re far from their base)

It’s always a good idea to ask the painter if there are any hidden / additional costs upfront, so you’re not caught off guard later.

Or you could just hire us if you’re in Virginia – no hidden fees ever period.

Bottom Line

Painters in Virginia usually charge around $20 to $50 per hour, $1 to $3 per square foot, or $200 to $600 per day.

But in the end, the cost of hiring a painter really depends on the size and complexity of the job, the materials you want, and who you hire. 

It’s always a good idea to get a few quotes from different painters to compare. And remember, cheap isn’t always the best option – quality work can make all the difference in the long run.

Need a Painter for Your Next Project?

Check our Service Areas Below:

Richmond Henrico Glen Allen Powhatan Hanover Amelia Mechanicsville

Flat paint is fine… until it’s not. At first, that soft, matte look feels modern and cozy. 

But then the fingerprints start showing. The scuffs multiply. And suddenly, you’re eyeing a can of eggshell paint, dreaming about a finish that’s still pretty but way easier to clean. 

Good news: you can totally make the switch without a massive renovation. 

Painting eggshell over flat is not only doable, it’s actually one of the easier upgrades you can tackle in a weekend.

In this post, we’ll show you exactly how to paint eggshell over flat, so you get a smooth, long-lasting finish that looks like a pro handled it.

Can You Paint Eggshell Over Flat?

Yep, you can paint eggshell over flat. 

Eggshell paint is a solid choice because it sits right between flat and satin. 

It gives you just enough sheen to reflect light and brighten a room, but it’s not so shiny that it shows every little wall imperfection. 

And once it’s on, you can wipe it down without worrying about ruining the finish.

Flat paint has a slightly rough, matte texture, which means new paint clings to it really well. That’s the opposite of painting over something glossy, where the new coat might slide right off if you skip sanding.

But you need to get the walls clean and free from dust or oils so the eggshell can bond properly. 

If you want the best results, a quick prime in certain situations can help too.

Also Read: Can You Paint Over Gel Stain?

Why Flat Paint Makes A Good Base

Flat paint is kind of like a sponge. It’s porous, so it grabs onto whatever you put on top. That’s great for adhesion but also why flat paint tends to stain easily – it absorbs things.

That same porosity works in your favor here. 

Instead of worrying about sanding down a glossy surface, you can pretty much start with cleaning and patching. 

Another bonus: flat paint usually hides small wall imperfections better than glossy finishes, so when you add eggshell, you still get a forgiving surface.

The only times you might want to prime first are:

• When you’re covering a dark wall with a much lighter color.
  
• When the wall has stains, water marks, or smoke damage.
  
• When you want extra insurance for durability in high-traffic areas.

If none of those apply, you can usually go straight to painting after your prep work.

How To Paint Eggshell Over Flat

Painting eggshell over flat is straightforward, but the difference between a patchy, streaky job and a pro-looking finish comes down to how much care you put into each step.

Also Read: Can You Skim Coat Over Wallpaper?

Here’s quick guide on how to do it like a pro:

#1. Gather Tools And Supplies

Before you dive in, get everything ready. You’ll want:

• Eggshell paint in your chosen color
  
• Paint roller and roller covers (medium nap for walls)
  
• Angled brush for cutting in edges
  
• Painter’s tape
  
• Drop cloths or old sheets
  
• Mild soap or wall cleaner
  
• Sanding sponge or fine-grit sandpaper
  
• Primer (if needed)

Having it all on hand means you won’t have to stop halfway through because you forgot a brush or ran out of tape.

#2. Clean The Walls

Paint sticks best to clean surfaces. Dust and oils can mess with adhesion, even on flat paint. 

Use a damp sponge with a bit of mild soap to wipe down the walls, especially around light switches, doors, and areas where hands touch often.

If the walls are really dirty, you might need a stronger cleaner like TSP (trisodium phosphate), but for most homes, a gentle wipe will do. 

Just make sure the walls are dry before you move on

#3. Prepare The Surface

Flat paint hides a lot, but eggshell has a soft sheen that can show imperfections you never noticed before. This is the moment to deal with them. 

Walk the room and mark any nail holes, dents, or cracks with painter’s tape so you don’t forget them.

Fill holes with spackles and smooth them out. 

Once dry, sand the patched spots until they’re flush with the wall. 

If the whole wall feels a bit rough, a quick once-over with a fine-grit sanding sponge will help the new paint glide on like butter. Wipe away any sanding dust before moving forward.

#4. Apply A Primer (Recommended)

Primer isn’t always mandatory here, but it can make a big difference. It creates a smooth, even base so your eggshell paint goes on flawlessly and the color looks richer. 

This is especially important if you’re making a big color change, like covering deep navy with pale beige or dealing with stains or uneven wall tones.

Use a roller for the large sections and a brush for edges and corners. 

Don’t rush it; let the primer dry fully before you even think about picking up your eggshell paint. 

This waiting step feels boring but pays off in the final look.

Also Read: Do You Prime Before Texture? 

#5. Apply The Eggshell Paint

Start by “cutting in” with your angled brush and paint around edges, trim, and corners where the roller won’t fit. This helps you keep clean lines and prevents missing spots later.

Load your roller with paint, but not so much that it’s dripping. 

Roll in a “W” or “M” shape to spread the paint evenly, then fill in the gaps with smooth, light strokes. Work in sections so the edges stay wet and blend together seamlessly. 

And resist the urge to go back over drying spots as it’s a fast track to streaks.

#6. Add A Second Coat If Needed

Sometimes one coat is enough, especially if your colors are similar. 

But if you can see the old color peeking through, or the finish looks uneven, a second coat will pull everything together.

Make sure the first coat is completely dry before you start the second!

Apply it just like the first: edges first, then smooth roller strokes across the wall. That extra layer gives you richer color, better coverage, and a finish that’s built to last.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

Painting eggshell paint over flat isn’t rocket science, but there are a few traps that can make the job harder than it needs to be.

Skipping prep is the biggest one. Dirty walls, unfilled holes, or rough patches will show more with eggshell than they did with flat. 

Another mistake? Using cheap brushes or rollers. 

They can shed bristles or leave lint in your finish.

Some people also overload their roller with paint, which causes drips and heavy lines. And then there’s the temptation to paint in one super-thick coat to “save time.” 

Also Read: How To Choose A Painting Contractor In Virginia

That usually leads to uneven drying and streaks. Two thinner coats almost always look better.

And don’t paint in extreme heat or humidity. Humidity slows drying and can mess with how the sheen settles. Heat can make paint dry before you’ve had a chance to blend it properly.

Bottom Line

Painting eggshell over flat is one of the easier wall upgrades you can do. 

Flat paint’s texture works in your favor, and with the right prep, you’ll end up with a smooth, durable finish that brightens your space and stands up to daily life.

It’s a simple weekend project – clean, patch, maybe prime, then roll on that fresh eggshell coat. 

You don’t need fancy skills, just patience and the right tools. Once it’s done, you’ll wonder why you didn’t swap out that flat finish sooner.