Step-by-Step Guide: Calculating a Painter’s Price (Målarpris Kalkyl)

Accurately calculating a målarpris kalkyl is essential for every professional painter in Sweden. Whether you’re working solo or running a larger team, your estimate needs to cover all costs, reflect Swedish regulations, and ensure profitability. This guide walks you through each step, from site assessment to final markup, so you can deliver reliable, competitive quotes every time.

Start by visiting the site or reviewing detailed drawings and photos. Collect all relevant information:

• Surface types (plaster, wood, concrete, etc.)
• Areas to be painted (walls, ceilings, trim, doors, exteriors)
• Current surface condition (damage, old paint, wallpaper, moisture)
• Access and height (scaffolding, ladders, lifts needed?)
• Client requirements (colors, paint types, gloss levels)

Document measurements and note any obstacles or special prep work required.

Measure each area to be painted. For walls and ceilings, use:

• Area (m²) = Length × Height

Deduct windows and doors if not painting them. Record all areas per room or surface type for clarity. This forms the basis for material and labor calculations.

Choose the right paint and primers for each surface. Calculate the amount needed based on manufacturer coverage rates (often 6–8 m²/liter per coat). Don’t forget:

• Number of coats (usually 2, sometimes 3)
• Primer or special undercoat if required
• Filler, masking tape, plastic, brushes, rollers, trays
• Waste factor (add 10–15% extra for spillage and touch-ups)

Get up-to-date prices from your supplier. Always include VAT (moms) for private clients.

Estimate how many hours each task will take. Consider:

• Preparation (masking, sanding, filling, cleaning)
• Priming and painting (per coat)
• Drying times between coats
• Cleanup and removal of waste

Use your own experience or refer to industry guidelines. Multiply total hours by your hourly rate (timpris), which should cover salary, social fees, insurance, and overhead.

Include costs for:

• Scaffolding, lifts, or special tools
• Transport and parking
• Disposal of hazardous waste (old paint, solvents)
• General business overhead (administration, EstimatePro license, etc.)

These costs are often added as a percentage (10–20%) or as fixed items in your kalkyl.

Add your desired profit margin, typically 10–20%, to the total cost. Double-check compliance with Swedish rules:

• ROT-avdrag: Eligible private clients can get up to 30% off labor costs. Clearly separate labor and material in your estimate.
• F-skatt: You must have valid F-tax registration to invoice ROT jobs.
• AML: Follow all arbetsmiljö (work environment) rules for safety and documentation.

Present your final price clearly, showing labor, materials, VAT, and ROT deduction if applicable.

Double-check all calculations. Ensure your estimate is professional, detailed, and easy for the client to understand. Use EstimatePro or a similar tool to format and save your kalkyl for future reference. Be ready to explain your pricing if the client has questions.