PaidCranePainting estimate template
Quote painting jobs with clear line items and a customer signature line, then turn the estimate into an invoice when the work is done. 🔒 No sign-up. Everything stays on your computer.
How to make an painting estimate
- Add your business details and logo.
- Fill in the customer and job site, and when the estimate expires.
- Edit the example line items to match what you'll do.
- Download PDF for the customer to sign. When the job is done, press Turn into an invoice.
What to put on a painting estimate
- Price walls by square foot and trim as its own line. Customers often trim the scope by dropping trim.
- List paint brand and finish on the estimate so the customer knows what they're paying for.
- Make prep work a separate line. It's where painters lose money when it's hidden.
- Put your warranty against peeling in the Terms. It sets you apart from the cheapest bid.
Example line items
| Item | Qty | Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Exterior: power wash and scrape | 1 | $650.00 |
| Exterior siding, 2 coats (sq ft) | 2400 | $2.10 |
| Trim, fascia and soffits | 1 | $1,200.00 |
| Paint and materials | 1 | $1,100.00 |
Example prices only. Rates vary a lot by region, so use your own.
Questions
How do painters calculate an estimate?
Most measure the paintable square footage, multiply by a per-square-foot rate that covers labor, then add paint, materials, prep and trim.
Should paint be a separate line item?
Showing paint separately (with brand and number of gallons) builds trust and makes upgrades to premium paint an easy add-on.
What is the difference between an estimate and a quote?
An estimate is an approximate price that can change if the job turns out different than expected. A quote is a fixed price the customer can accept. Say which one you mean in the terms.
How do I turn an estimate into an invoice?
When the job is done, press "Turn into an invoice". The customer, job site and line items are copied into a new invoice, ready to adjust and send. A deposit on the estimate is filled in as already paid; change it if the customer hasn't paid it.
How do I ask for a deposit?
Enter a percentage or flat amount under Deposit. The estimate shows "Deposit due to start work", and if you add a payment link, a QR code the customer can scan to pay it.
Is an estimate legally binding?
An estimate on its own usually isn't a contract. Once the customer signs and accepts it, it can become part of your agreement. For larger jobs, use a written contract too.