The Ultimate Guide to Hiring Painters in Cheltenham: Everything You Need to Succeed

Planning to refresh your home with a new coat of paint? You're in the right place. Hiring a painter in Cheltenham doesn't have to be stressful, once you know what to look for, the whole process becomes pretty straightforward.

Whether you're tackling a single room or planning a full home makeover, this guide will walk you through everything from understanding costs to spotting a quality decorator. Let's get started.

What Do Painters and Decorators Actually Do?

You might think painters just slap some colour on your walls and call it a day. Not quite. Professional painters and decorators in Cheltenham offer a whole range of services that go way beyond the basics.

Here's what you can typically expect:

• Preparation work – Sanding, filling cracks, priming surfaces (this is where the magic really happens)

• Painting – Using various finishes like emulsion, gloss, satin, or specialist paints

• Wallpapering – Including removing old paper and hanging new wall coverings

• Colour consultation – Helping you choose the right shades and finishes

• Exterior work – House fronts, fences, railings, doors, and outdoor woodwork

• Clean-up – Leaving your home tidy and ready to enjoy

Many decorators in the area also specialise in particular niches. Some focus on period properties (Cheltenham has plenty of those!), while others excel at modern interiors or commercial spaces.

How Much Should You Expect to Pay in Cheltenham?

Let's talk money. Painters and decorators in Cheltenham typically charge between £20-25 per hour, or £180-200 per day. But the total cost depends heavily on what you're having done.

Here's a rough breakdown of typical project costs:

• Medium-sized room – Around £400

• Single bedroom – About £245

• Hallway, landing, and stairs – Roughly £600

• Ceilings – Approximately £325

• Window frames – Around £175

• Wallpaper removal (per room) – About £350

• Exterior house painting – Between £425-1,500

• Full interior redecoration – £2,600-3,600

Keep in mind that properties within 5 miles of Cheltenham's city centre often command premium prices. But you're also likely to find more experienced decorators in these areas.

Finding the Right Painter: What to Look For

Not all painters are created equal. Here's how to separate the pros from the "my mate's cousin does decorating" crowd.

Check Their Credentials

Look for decorators who are members of recognized schemes. Some Cheltenham painters hold Dulux Select Decorator status or have won industry awards. These credentials aren't just shiny badges, they show a commitment to quality and ongoing training.

Experience Matters

Many established painters in Cheltenham have 15-30+ years of experience under their belts. Those with longer track records have usually seen it all, from dealing with wonky Victorian walls to choosing the perfect finish for a brand-new build.

Want to work on a period property? Make sure your decorator has experience with historic buildings. Wallpapering in period homes, for example, requires a different approach than modern properties.

Ask to See Their Work

A picture really is worth a thousand words. Ask potential painters to show you examples of completed projects, ideally ones similar to yours. Can they handle the finish you want? Do they have experience with your type of property?

Good decorators will happily show off their portfolio. If someone's reluctant to share examples, that's a red flag.

Get Multiple Quotes

Here's a simple rule: always get at least three quotes. This helps you understand the going rate and compare what different painters offer. Just remember, the cheapest quote isn't always the best value. Look at what's included in the price and the quality of previous work.

The Quote Process: What to Expect

When you reach out to a painter in Cheltenham, here's typically how things unfold:

1. Initial chat – You'll discuss which rooms need painting, your preferred finishes, colour ideas, budget, and timeline. This is your chance to get a feel for whether you'll work well together.

2. Property visit – The painter will measure up and check the condition of your walls and ceilings. They'll spot any prep work needed, like filling cracks or treating damp.

3. Colour consultation – You'll confirm your colour palette. Professional painters typically bring swatches from various brands and can offer advice on what works in different lighting.

4. Written estimate – Reputable decorators provide detailed written quotes with clear timelines. If someone only offers a verbal estimate, be cautious.

Key Things That Separate Great Painters from Average Ones

Preparation Is Everything

You know that saying about how preparation is 80% of the job? It's absolutely true for decorating. Quality painters invest serious time in preparing surfaces properly, diagnosing problems, treating them correctly, and ensuring issues won't crop up again after the paint dries.

If a decorator rushes the prep work or skips steps, your beautiful new paint job might start peeling or cracking within months. Not ideal.

They Source Quality Paint

Professional-grade paints aren't the same as what you pick up at a DIY store. They provide better coverage, last longer, and give superior finishes. Good painters will source the right paint for your project, though you always have final say on colours and styles.

Confused about paint finishes? Check out our simple guide to paint finishes to help you choose.

Tidiness During Work

Is your painter leaving dust sheets everywhere and paint splatters on your skirting boards? That's not acceptable. Reputable decorators maintain clean work areas throughout the project and ensure thorough cleanup afterward. Your home should look better when they leave, not like a tornado's passed through.

Where to Find Painters in Cheltenham

Ready to start your search? Here are some solid places to look:

• Checkatrade – Browse verified painters and decorators with completed background checks. You can read reviews from real customers and request quotes.

• Professional directories – Platforms like Houzz list painters with portfolios and client reviews.

• Local recommendations – Word of mouth is powerful. Many Cheltenham decorators build their businesses through referrals, so ask friends, neighbours, or local Facebook groups for suggestions.

• Check out our work – At Mitten's Decorating, we've been helping Cheltenham homeowners transform their spaces with quality painting and decorating services. Feel free to browse our gallery to see examples of our work.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a typical decorating project take?

It depends on the scope, but a single room usually takes 2-3 days including prep and drying time. A whole house might take 2-3 weeks. Your decorator should give you a clear timeline in their quote.

Should I move furniture before the painters arrive?

Most decorators will move small items and cover larger furniture. But if you can clear the room beforehand, it makes their job easier and often speeds things up. Discuss this during your initial chat.

Can I stay in my home during decorating?

Usually, yes! Most people stay put during interior painting. Just expect some disruption: you might need to avoid certain rooms while paint dries, and there'll be some dust and smell. Modern low-VOC paints have much less odour than older formulas.

What's the best time of year to paint the exterior of my house?

In Cheltenham, late spring through early autumn typically offers the best conditions. You need dry weather and temperatures above 10°C for exterior paint to cure properly. Avoid painting in direct strong sunlight or when rain is forecast.

Do I need to be home during the work?

Not necessarily, though many people prefer to be around for at least part of the project. If you trust your decorator (and you should, if you've done your homework!), you can arrange for them to have access while you're at work.

Ready to Transform Your Home?

Hiring a painter in Cheltenham really comes down to doing your homework, getting multiple quotes, and choosing someone you trust. Don't rush the decision: a quality paint job should last years, so it's worth taking time to find the right decorator.

Remember, proper preparation, quality materials, and experienced hands make all the difference between a paint job that looks great for a few months and one that stays beautiful for years.

Need help with your decorating project? Get in touch with us to discuss your requirements. We're always happy to chat through your plans and provide honest advice( even if you're just at the thinking stage.)