Many customers ask us if they should tip painters after a job well done. Tipping has become more common in recent years, and while it’s never expected, our painting crews always appreciate it. If you’re wondering, “Do you tip painters—and how much?”, we’ve put together some general guidelines to help you decide. From typical tipping amounts to other ways you can show appreciation, here’s everything you need to know.
Do You Tip Painters?
Many of our customers want to tip our painters as they appreciate the hard work and the long days they put in. They work in all types of weather, including extremely hot days during our exterior painting season. Some days they are driving to do interior painting in snow and ice conditions as well. The work they do can be extremely demanding and dangerous and many customers appreciate this and want to show gratitude.
Key Considerations for Tipping Painters
Tipping is never required, but it’s always a thoughtful gesture. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you decide what feels right:
- Tipping is optional: You’re under no obligation to tip—your appreciation can take many forms.
- Any amount is appreciated: Even a small tip, such as $20 or $50, lets the crew know their hard work didn’t go unnoticed.
- Consider the job size and effort involved: Larger, more complex projects or work done under tough conditions may warrant a bigger thank-you.
- Consistency and professionalism matter: If your crew showed up on time, communicated clearly, and left your home spotless, that’s worth recognizing.
- Budget what feels right: Never stretch beyond your means. A sincere thank-you or positive review can be just as meaningful.
How Much to Tip Painters
A good rule of thumb is to tip 3–5% of the total cost of the project, divided among the crew. But you can also use these general guidelines:
Typical Painter Tip Ranges by Project Size:
- Small jobs (1 room or touch-ups): $20–$50 total
- Mid-size jobs (full interior or exterior): $50–$150 total
- Larger projects (whole-house repaints or commercial spaces): $150–$300+ total
Ultimately, your tip should reflect your satisfaction with the work and your own comfort level.
How to Tip Painters
Once your project is completed and you decide to leave a tip for the painting crew, you can do this in a few different ways:
- Hand cash directly to the painters at the end of the project.
- Give the tip to the crew leader and ask them to distribute it.
- Add the amount to your final invoice and let us know you’d like it designated as a tip.
Our team is happy to honor whatever method is easiest for you.
FAQs: Tipping Painters Etiquette
Here are answers to some of the most common questions we get about tipping painters.
Do You Tip House Painters Based On Total Quote?
Giving a tip to a painter or a crew of painters is 100% up to the customer and how satisfied they are with the work. We never suggest a specific amount to tip them, but based on what crews have been tipped in the past, we can offer some general guidelines.
If an average paint job costs $7,000, for example, the tips are generally around $50–$100 per painter on the job. An average crew size is typically two painters and a crew leader, so a total tip of $150–$300 would be fairly common for the team to split.
Many customers also show appreciation in other ways—such as buying or making lunch for the crew or offering drinks while they’re working. These small gestures don’t happen every day, but the crews always appreciate them when they do.
How Much Do You Tip a Painters Crew?
On average our crews will get tipped $150-$300 for a normal-sized project. Of course, we do jobs that exceed $50,000 at times so the tips tend to be higher on these projects. Customers have given as much as $300 per painter on larger projects!
Tipping Painters: How Common is it?
Tipping painters has become more common, especially as more customers recognize the effort, craftsmanship, and physical labor involved in a quality paint job. While it’s never expected, it’s certainly appreciated by crews who take pride in doing the job right.
When Should You Tip a House Painter?
We believe you should tip anyone who does great work and goes above and beyond to make sure you are happy. If you are not happy with your painting crew, you should not feel obligated to tip anyone. Just like any business, you can use your judgment on tipping.
When Should You NOT Tip Painters?
You should not feel pressured to tip if:
- The work was rushed or careless
- Deadlines weren’t met without explanation
- Communication was poor or disrespectful
- Cleanup was not completed or left you frustrated
Tipping is a way to recognize good service—if the experience wasn’t positive, you are under no obligation to tip.
Tipping House Painters: Is It the Same for Interior and Exterior Projects?
Tipping painters for interior or exterior work is typically about the same. Customers may get to know our team a little better when we work on the interior of their homes so they may be slightly more likely to tip them for interior work. Many customers do tip for exterior painting as they see how hard the team works in the hot weather and on tall ladders.
Should You Tip for Commercial Painting Projects?
For commercial painting jobs, tipping is less common—but not unheard of. Businesses may not budget for gratuities, but when a crew exceeds expectations, a tip or a small thank-you gift can be a great gesture. For example:
- Property managers might offer a group lunch or coffee cards
- Business owners might tip $100–$300, depending on project size and satisfaction
- Office staff may leave a handwritten thank-you card or positive Google review
Again, tipping is always at your discretion—commercial or residential.
Do Crews Like To Be Given Food/Drinks?
Painting crews always talk about when customers take time to give them food or drinks on the job. We don’t allow them to drink alcohol on the jobs but most any other food or drinks is great! They truly appreciate it and remember those customers for a long time.
Other Ways to Thank Painting Crews
Tipping isn’t the only way to show appreciation. Here are a few meaningful alternatives:
- Leave a positive online review on Google, Yelp, or Facebook
- Refer us to your friends and neighbors
- Offer a small gift card to a local coffee shop or hardware store
- Send a thank-you email or note we can share with the team
- Mention crew members by name when providing feedback—we love to recognize great work
If your painters are doing a good job, please let them know you appreciate them. Kind words still go a long way.
Do You Tip Painters? Answered by Absolute Painting
No matter how you choose to show appreciation, our crews are grateful for your support.
With over 30 years of experience in the industry, we have a lot to share and take great pride in our work. If you’re in the Portland area, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team for a free estimate! We look forward to hearing from you.
