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Did you know that the quality of your building's finishes can directly impact the productivity and wellbeing of your staff? A fresh coat of paint is not just about appearances — it influences how your team feels at work and the impression you make on prospective clients.
If you are considering a repaint for your commercial property in Melbourne or elsewhere in Australia, here is a practical breakdown of what affects the cost and what you can expect to pay.
Key Factors That Affect Commercial Painting Costs
1. How Much Paint Will You Need?
Calculating paint quantity starts with your total paintable surface area.
- Measure each wall: multiply length by height, then add them together
- Subtract the area of doors and windows from the total
- For ceilings, multiply the room length by its width and add to the wall total
This gives you your total square meterage, which forms the basis of any accurate quote.
2. Labour Costs
Labour is typically charged at $100 – $150 per hour on average, but painting time is only part of the equation. Preparation work is just as important and includes:
- Washing, caulking, scraping, and priming surfaces
- Treating minor cracks, nail holes, and surface imperfections
- Clean-up once the job is complete
Major prep work such as large cracks, holes, or damaged drywall will attract additional labour costs, so the condition of your building plays a significant role.
3. The Condition of the Building
The better the condition of your building, the more straightforward (and affordable) the job. Factors that can increase costs include:
- Textured or uneven walls requiring additional prep and paint
- Existing mould, mildew, or surface damage that must be treated before painting
- Heavy furniture or fixtures that need to be moved to access walls
4. Accessibility of the Property
Building height, structure, and layout all affect how a job is priced. Hard-to-reach areas such as high-rise facades or multi-storey interiors require specialised equipment and skilled tradespeople, which is reflected in the cost. It also matters if you are getting a commercial exterior painting service or commercial interior painting service.
5. Qualifications and Reputation of the Painting Contractor
It can be tempting to cut costs with an unqualified painter, but this often leads to bigger expenses down the track. A qualified commercial painting contractor will:
- Properly assess and prepare the surface before any paint is applied
- Identify and treat mould, mildew, and structural damage
- Use the right products and techniques for long-lasting results
- Provide workmanship that protects your asset for years to come
Choosing a reputable commercial painting company in Melbourne is not just about the finish — it is about protecting the long-term value of your building.
What Does Commercial Painting Actually Cost?
For a commercial property of approximately 15,000 square metres in good condition, using a standard two-coat brush-and-roll paint system, you can expect to pay:
- $5,000 – $10,000 for the full job
- Roughly $0.33 – $0.67 per square metre for walls and ceilings
Keep in mind that this is an average estimate. Final costs will vary depending on the factors outlined above.
Is DIY Really Worth It?
When it comes to commercial painting, the short-term savings of a DIY approach rarely outweigh the long-term risks. Improper preparation, missed damage, and substandard finishes can lead to far greater costs in repairs and repainting down the line.
Investing in a qualified, experienced commercial painting company in Melbourne means the job is done right the first time — protecting your building, your people, and your budget.
At Avello Group, we provide professional commercial painting services across Melbourne with over 30 years of experience. We deliver quality finishes, thorough preparation, and transparent pricing on every project.
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