When you receive three quotes to paint 80 m² of walls and the difference between the lowest and highest reaches 900 euros, the question that always comes up is the same: why? The area is the same, the work seems identical, but the values don't match. The truth is that square metres is only a starting point, never the complete story.
The condition of walls defines the actual work, not the area
Two surfaces with the same area can require completely different work depending on their current condition: cracks, moisture, mould, peeling old paint, or uneven walls all require prior preparation. A smooth, well-maintained wall can receive paint directly after light cleaning. A wall with visible cracks or active moisture, however, requires filler, sanding, primer, and sometimes specific treatment before any coat is applied.
This type of per-square-metre quote always works as indicative, never definitive, precisely because two surfaces with the same area rarely show the same actual condition. That's why our platform always asks for photographs and videos of surfaces before finalising any quote. This practice allows anticipation of the type of preparation needed and avoids adjustments during the work.
In regions like Lisboa or Porto, where many buildings are several decades old and have structural moisture, preparations tend to be more demanding than in a newer apartment in Aveiro or Leiria. Cracks, stains, moisture, or peeling paint all require preparation that can significantly alter the quote.
Labour alone or labour plus materials: two different quote logics
One of the biggest differences in a quote lies in knowing whether the price includes only labour or also includes paints, primer, fillers, sandpaper, protection, repairs, and final cleaning. A quote showing 5 euros per square metre without materials cannot be directly compared to one at 9 euros per square metre with paint included.
When the customer supplies the paint, they assume the risk of choosing the wrong quantity, inadequate quality, or forgetting essential elements like primer or filler. When the quote includes materials, the professional guarantees compatibility, correct quantity, and proper technical sequence. If the professional also includes the necessary paint in the quote, the price typically ranges from 4.50 to 9 euros per square metre.
It's essential to always confirm, before accepting any proposal, what's included and what remains the property owner's responsibility. The difference between an apparently cheaper quote and a slightly higher one may simply be in what each considers part of the service.
Paint type and number of coats affect the final cost
Basic painting with 100% acrylic paint averages around 15 euros per square metre, while textured or decorative effect paints can reach 36 euros per square metre. The type of finish (matte, satin, washable) also influences application time and technique required, especially in kitchens or bathrooms where washable paint is preferred.
The number of coats needed depends on the chosen paint's coverage and the previous wall colour. Changing from a dark wall to white requires more coats than refreshing an already light wall. Each additional coat means more work time, more paint used, and therefore more cost.
In an apartment in Setúbal or Faro, where natural light is intense, choosing matte finishes can help disguise small imperfections. In Braga or Viseu, where humidity is more present, washable and moisture-resistant paints become more appropriate, even if the initial cost is slightly higher.
Ceiling height, access, and space protection weigh on the quote
For ceilings, the price rises slightly, between 8 and 18 euros per square metre, given the additional effort. Apartments with high ceilings or homes with interior stairs require additional equipment (step ladders, mobile scaffolding) and greater care in application.
Protecting furniture, floors, and fixed elements (doors, windows, skirting boards) also consumes time and materials. In a furnished apartment where everything must be protected, the work takes longer than in an empty room ready to paint. The need to protect furniture and flooring, as well as access to the property, are factors that affect the price of interior painting.
In older buildings in the historic centres of Lisboa, Porto, or Coimbra, access can be difficult (narrow stairs, no lift, distant parking), which also reflects in the time needed to transport materials and travel costs.
Regional differences and transparent payment model
In Lisboa and the Metropolitan Area, labour prices are typically 20% above the reference values of the country's centre. In Porto and the North, the increase is around 10%. The Alentejo and interior regions are generally 10% below the national average. This variation reflects the cost of living and availability of professionals in each region.
On our platform, the payment model is always the same regardless of location: 50% at the start (to reserve the date and purchase materials) and 50% at the end, after verification of completed work. This model protects both parties and ensures the customer only pays in full after confirming that everything is as agreed.
Comparing quotes requires looking beyond the final value per square metre. Knowing what each proposal includes, the actual condition of the surfaces, and what type of preparation will be necessary are the steps that allow you to make an informed decision, not just the cheapest one.
