Do You Tip Painters?

When service personnel come into your home and complete terrific work, you're appreciative and thankful for a job well done, right? Often, a way we show appreciation and gratitude is with a sincere thank you and a tip. But do you tip painters? This is a dilemma that confuses many homeowners. 

You may be planning for professional painters to come in and transform your home into a thing of beauty, and want to know what's expected in terms of tipping. We all know that painting is a huge job that involves many steps, a lot of skill, and plenty of experience. 

Money

The bottom line is that even though pro painters don't expect tips, a gratuity is always appreciated. But there's more to the story, so read on to learn what the pros and cons of tipping are, when you should and shouldn't tip, plus suggestions on tipping amounts.

Do You Have to Tip House Painters?

As mentioned above, although tips are always appreciated, professional painters don't expect them. Tips aren't mandatory. Some service personnel such as delivery people, bartenders, waiters, and hair stylists rely on tips as part of their wages. However, house painters are paid in full for the job completed by the paint company that employs them.

At Singletrack Painting, our painters have a high skill level, stay with us a long time, receive benefits, and are well compensated. They'll never ask for or expect a tip. Still, if a customer feels they've received exceptional workmanship and service, they're welcome to tip. If you decide to tip, it should be something that both you and your painters are comfortable with – so before you decide to tip, ask your painter what their company's policy on tipping is.

 

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Should You Tip Painters?

Should you or should you, not tip painters depends on the circumstances around your paint job. If you are especially delighted with the paint job, you may feel that a tip is the best way to show your appreciation. But it's not required to tip even if you're thrilled with the work. However, if you're not completely satisfied, don't tip painters. It will only reinforce less than satisfactory work. The following advice on when and when not to tip will make the decision easier for you.

When to Tip

When a painter goes the extra mile to do an exceptional job, a tip will be appreciated. Some examples would be to stay late to finish a room, provide extra clean-up and leave your house spotless after the job, or be especially kind and thoughtful as they navigate through your home.

When Not to Tip

If you're happy with the service but not with the quality of the paint job, don't tip. Or maybe you're satisfied with the outcome but didn't care for the service – again, don't tip. Tipping is always at your discretion and ultimately your satisfaction. 

Don't tip just because you think you should or that it's expected. Some painting companies specify in their contracts that painters are not to be tipped. Be sure to ask your painting sales rep before your project begins so you'll know their tipping protocol.

How Much Do You Tip Painters?

Not only is there the question of whether or not to tip painters, but then, if you do want to tip, how much should it be? If you're delighted with the paint job and want to give your painters a tip, the amount will depend on several factors: the size of the project, the complexity of the project, the quality of the customer service, and the contract price. 

A very generous tip would be 5-7% of the contract price, divided among the number of painters on the job. Otherwise, you can figure a tip of $50-$75 per painter depending on how great the workmanship or customer service was. Remember, it's at your discretion and any tip is appreciated. 

Some customers would like to express their appreciation but in a non-monetary way. Here are several thoughtful suggestions: 

  • Give a gift card to a store or restaurant. 

  • Provide cold beverages and food during the project.

  • Write positive online reviews.

  • Write a note of thanks to the painting company owner that can be posted on their website. Include descriptions of why the job, service, or a particular painter was exceptional.

  • Recommend the painting company to your friends, family, and business associates.

  • Offer to be a reference for their potential clients.

Tipping Etiquette in the Front Range

In the Front Range, where community and appreciation for good work run deep, tipping painters is seen as a generous gesture to show your gratitude for their hard work and attention to detail. While it's not mandatory, it is certainly appreciated, especially after completing a challenging project under the unique weather conditions of Denver and its surroundings.

Singletrack Painters Are Quick and Effective

Nothing transforms your home faster than a beautiful paint job. Singletrack painters can quickly and efficiently provide the high-quality work you're looking for. If you're ready to plan your painting project, request a quote from Singletrack Painting. Our skilled crews offer superior workmanship and thoughtful customer service. With many years of experience in exterior, interior, and residential painting, Singletrack will deliver a top-notch paint job you'll love.

 

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Drew Witt

Drew was raised in a family of construction professionals who owned a civil engineering firm. He studied business at Clemson University and ventured into the painting industry while pursuing his graduate degree in North Carolina. In 2011, Drew relocated to Denver to assist in establishing a church in the RiNo neighborhood while simultaneously launching a painting business. His areas of expertise encompass project management, estimating, leadership, and overall company vision.

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