Paint Contractor’s Manual

The Paint Contractor’s Manual is written for painting contractors. If you’ve been working as a painter for several years and want to go into business for yourself – finding clients, selling the job, supervising the work, and collecting the money when it’s due – this book is for you. If you’ve been running a paint contracting business for several years and want to compare notes with another paint contractor, this book is also for you. 

The Paint Contractor’s Manual covers the following: 

Starting & Organizing Your Painting Business

• Guidance on launching a paint contracting company – covering choosing a niche, securing start-up funding, understanding licensing and insurance, advertising effectively, and managing budgets and paperwork.

Estimating & Profit Maximization

• Extensive tables of man‑hour estimates, formulas, sample forms, contracts, and cost‑tracking tools. Helps contractors estimate labor and material, set profitable pricing, and use ads efficiently.

Step‑by‑Step Job Planning & Execution

• In‑depth instructions on surface prep and painting techniques—roller, brush, spray—including selecting tools, primers, coatings, and color prep.

Troubleshooting Paint Failures

• Covers common issues such as adhesion failure, blistering, chalking, peeling, stains, color mismatches, and corrective techniques.

About Dave Matis

Dave Matis was a seasoned professional in the painting and contracting industry. He co-authored the Paint Contractor’s Manual alongside Jobe H. Toole, a comprehensive guide for running a successful paint contracting business. Matis brought decades of hands-on experience to the field, offering practical insights into estimating, crew management, and production techniques. His work remains a valuable resource for contractors seeking to improve efficiency and profitability.

Jobe H. Toole is a California-based contractor and business owner, known for his contributions to the painting industry. He co-authored the Paint Contractor’s Manual with Dave Matis, sharing expert knowledge on industrial painting and business operations. Toole has also held executive roles in companies like Jody Toole’s Professional Finishes, Inc., and has been active in the Tujunga, CA business community.

Other Works: Craftsman publishers have also published the following:

• Roofing Construction & Estimating Revised
• Pipe & Excavation Contracting Revised 
• Builder’s Guide to Accounting Revised Edition