What Painting Equipment Should I Buy First? A Guide for Painting Contractors
- Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
- Oct 9
- 3 min read
Starting a painting business is exciting—but it can also be overwhelming when it comes to choosing the right tools. With so many options on the market, how do you know what painting equipment you really need to get started?
In this guide, we’ll break down the essential painting tools and equipment every new painting contractor should invest in first. Whether you're launching a residential or commercial painting business, this list will help you start strong—and stay professional.
And don’t forget: once you’ve got your gear, you’ll also need to protect your business with the right painting contractor insurance. That’s where Wexford Insurance comes in.
Why Choosing the Right Painting Equipment Matters
The right tools help you:
Deliver high-quality results
Work more efficiently
Impress clients with professionalism
Avoid costly mistakes and rework
Investing in the right equipment from the start can save you time, money, and headaches down the road.
Essential Painting Equipment to Buy First
Here’s a breakdown of the must-have painting tools for new contractors:
1. Brushes and Rollers
Start with a variety of high-quality brushes (angled, straight, sash) and rollers for different surfaces and finishes.
Recommended brands: Wooster, and Benjamin Moore
2. Drop Cloths and Plastic Sheeting
Protect floors, furniture, and fixtures with canvas drop cloths and plastic sheeting. Canvas is reusable and more durable than plastic.
3. Painter’s Tape
Use blue painter’s tape to create clean lines and protect trim, windows, and edges. Avoid regular masking tape—it can damage surfaces.
4. Extension Poles
An adjustable extension pole helps you reach ceilings and tall walls without ladders. Look for lightweight, durable options with universal thread compatibility.
5. Ladders and Step Stools
Invest in a multi-position ladder and a sturdy step stool. For exterior jobs, you may need an extension ladder or scaffolding.
6. Paint Sprayer (Optional but Powerful)
If you plan to take on large commercial or exterior jobs, a professional-grade paint sprayer can save hours of labor and deliver a smooth finish.
7. Buckets, Grids, and Trays
You’ll need paint trays, bucket grids, and 5-gallon buckets for mixing and applying paint efficiently.
8. Caulking Gun and Caulk
Sealing gaps and cracks before painting is essential for a clean finish. A dripless caulking gun and paintable caulk are must-haves.
9. Sandpaper and Scrapers
Surface prep is key. Stock up on sandpaper, sanding sponges, and putty knives to smooth surfaces and remove old paint.
10. Cleaning Supplies
Don’t forget rags, paint thinner, bucket for water, and soap for cleaning brushes and rollers after each job.
Bonus: Safety and Protection Gear
Protect yourself and your crew with:
Respirators or masks
Safety goggles
Gloves
Coveralls or painter’s whites
Knee pads
How to Budget for Painting Equipment
Starting a painting business doesn’t have to break the bank. Here’s a rough estimate of startup equipment costs:
Equipment Category | Estimated Cost Range |
Brushes & Rollers | $100–$300 |
Drop Cloths & Tape | $50–$150 |
Ladders & Extension Poles | $200–$500 |
Paint Sprayer (Optional) | $300–$800 |
Safety Gear | $100–$200 |
Misc. Supplies | $100–$300 |
Total | $550–$2,250 |
💡 Want a full breakdown of startup costs? Check out our blog on How Much It Costs to Start a Painting Business.
Protect Your Equipment with the Right Insurance
Your tools are your livelihood. That’s why it’s critical to protect them with the right insurance coverage. At Wexford Insurance, we specialize in helping painting contractors get the protection they need, including:
Final Thoughts: Start Smart with the Right Tools
Starting a painting business is all about preparation. By investing in the right equipment and protecting your business with the right insurance, you’ll be ready to take on clients with confidence.
At Wexford Insurance, we’re here to help you build a strong foundation for your painting business. Whether you’re just starting out or expanding your services, we’ve got your back.
👉 Contact us today and protect your painting business from day one.