How do I compare two painting bids?

Check: paint type, number of coats, whether primer is included, repairs, scaffolding and warranty.

Is the cheapest bid always the best?

Almost never. A low price often means fewer coats, cheap paint or skipping primer.

Comparing Bids for Facade Painting | Paint Guide Oikodomisis

What an offer should state

Offer checklist: preparation, primer, system, coats, consumption, lifespan

Item	Why it matters
Preparation description	Shows whether a proper base will be made
Primer type	Correct primer = adhesion + stability
Final system	Acrylic, elastomeric, or silicone?
Number of coats	Ensures correct film thickness
Consumption per m²	Reveals reduced or standard thickness
Estimated lifespan	Basis for lifecycle cost comparison

What "2 coats of paint" actually means

The phrase "2 coats of paint" on its own doesn't say which paint, what category, at what thickness, or with what preparation.

A detailed offer describes exactly: primer type, topcoat type, number of coats, material consumption. Detail in the wording shows professionalism.

Comparison: vague offer vs detailed technical offer with layers and specs

If an offer doesn't mention the system, primer, and preparation - it's incomplete.

Critical points often missing

Most offers don't fall short on price - they fall short on information. Four critical points are commonly absent.

Preparation

Does it just say "cleaning" or does it describe specifically what's included? The difference in outcome is fundamental.

Primer

Is the type mentioned or taken for granted? Omitting primer dramatically reduces lifespan.

Cracks

Is local repair planned, or will they simply paint over cracks? The latter guarantees early failure.

Lifespan

Is there a reference to expected lifecycle? Without it, you can't compare true cost.

Why large price gaps aren't random

A low price can mean less preparation, a cheaper system, reduced application thickness, or primer omission.

The upfront amount doesn't show the real cost over time. A cheap intervention that fails at year 4 ultimately costs more than a proper one at year 10.

Funnel: less preparation + cheaper system + thinner application = lower price & failure

How to make a real comparison

4 steps: system breakdown, lifespan, preparation, cracks & moisture

If you have 3 quotes, follow these steps before comparing prices.

① System breakdown

Request a detailed description: primer + topcoat, material type, number of coats.

② Lifespan

Ask for expected lifespan - this fundamentally changes the cost comparison.

③ Preparation

Request a description of the preparation process - cleaning, stabilisation, repairs.

④ Cracks & moisture

Make sure cracks and moisture issues are addressed - not just aesthetics.

When a higher offer makes sense

If an offer includes full preparation, a superior system (elastomeric/silicone), technical assessment before starting, and a clear description of works - then you are comparing a different level of solution.

The right choice isn't the lowest price - it's the one that describes the system clearly, is based on assessment, explains the lifespan, and reduces future maintenance costs.

Scale: higher bid with full system vs lower bid with unknown gaps

A detailed offer shows technical responsibility - a vague offer leaves everything to chance.

Comparing Bids for Facade Painting