Do you tip a professional painter when they are fnished?

[riderinthestorm]

I am old! I've always done all of my painting myself - barns, jumps, household stuff - you name it, I paint it. My allergies lately though have been really bad so I hired a painter to finish the last barn and he did such a good job, I hired him to do a room in my house as well.

He's been wonderful! He gave me an honest bid. He's been a joy to deal with. I am 110% satisfied. He'll be done by tomorrow and what I'd like to know is if it's standard to "tip" your painter? I've supplied him with drinks and food for the week he's been with me but was wondering what is the industry standard since I've never employed a professional painter before....

[Denninmi]

1. If he's self employed, I'd say its optional. If he's an employee, it would be a nice gesture.

Really, its probably not standard practice, but if you're really happy with him, either way, I think I would be inclined to give him a little bonus.

[riderinthestorm]

2. He's self employed. nt

[petronius]

3. I think a bonus would be very appropriate, especially if the price seems particularly

good for the level of service. Perhaps more importantly, make sure to spread the word of your happiness to any contacts you have, and 'review' websites...

[riderinthestorm]

4. It's taken him longer than he thought I believe.

He told me he'd be done with all of it by Wednesday and he's still working on it (and not yet done today). So I know he underestimated the amount of time and effort...

I don't have any good "feel" for colors and decorating so I let him select what color to paint the room in my house (I'd already finished 3 out of 4 barns so he had no choice there). He picked the most magnificent color. It makes the whole room warmer and its just is so lovely, I laughed when I first walked in - overjoyed. He initially had showed me one color but after getting it on part of the wall, he modified it himself with his own additions to make it great. I'm so lucky to have him.

What would be an appropriate amount to tip do you think? The entire job - barn and this one room - is $3,000 (it's a big old barn with lots of white trim....)

[Curmudgeoness]

5. I don't think that it is standard practice. I had a professional painter

do the exterior of the house. He gave me a fair price, and he did not run into problems that he was unaware of prior to the bid. I never thought of tipping him. I had to have interior painting done a few years later, and I called him. He did the work, so I figure that he was not upset with what he was paid on the first job.

I liked his work, which is why I called him when I needed more work. And I will continue to call him when I need more painting. I have referred several people to him, and I think that is what he really needs.

But just because it never occurred to me, that doesn't mean it wouldn't be appreciated. It depends on your circumstances, how good his price was, and how well he did the work. It would not be a problem if you did tip him, that is for sure. But don't think that it would be expected.

[Generic Brad]

6. I don't think anyone should be tipped over

If you enjoy his work, I suggest you allow him to remain in an upright position.

[murielm99]

7. We are tipping our painter when he finishes here.

He has his choice of one of four kittens.

He fell in love with the kitties. I am glad he is taking one.