How much does a mural cost?

Mural pricing depends on size, complexity, location, surface condition, and whether the project is interior or exterior. Most professional commercial murals range from $15 to $50+ per square foot. A typical 20-by-28-foot wall might fall between $8,000 and $28,000 depending on design complexity, surface prep requirements, and access needs like scaffolding or a lift.

How long does it take to paint a mural?

Timeline varies by size and complexity. A standard commercial mural typically takes 1 to 3 weeks from surface preparation through final protective coating. The design and approval phase before painting begins can add an additional 2 to 4 weeks. Weather can also affect exterior mural timelines.

What should I ask before hiring a muralist?

Key questions include: Can I see a portfolio of completed projects at a similar scale? Do you handle surface preparation and priming? What protective coatings do you apply for UV and weather resistance? Do you carry liability insurance? What is your revision process during the design phase? Who supplies the paint and materials? Will you need scaffolding or a lift, and is that included in the quote?

How do you protect an outdoor mural from fading?

Professional muralists apply UV-resistant clear coats and varnishes after the mural is complete. High-quality exterior spray paints like Montana GOLD already have strong lightfastness ratings. Proper surface preparation, including priming with exterior-grade primers, also extends the life of the mural. With proper protection, an exterior mural can last 10 to 15 years or more.

Do I need to prepare my wall before a muralist starts?

Most professional muralists handle wall preparation as part of the project. This includes cleaning, patching cracks or damage, and applying primer suited to the surface material. The condition of the wall can affect the final quote, so it is best to share photos of the wall during the initial consultation.

Can a muralist work on any surface?

Murals can be painted on brick, concrete, stucco, drywall, metal, and wood. Each surface requires different preparation and paint types. A professional muralist will assess the surface and recommend the best approach. Some surfaces like heavily textured stucco or deteriorating brick may need additional prep work.

What is the difference between a commercial mural and a residential mural?

Commercial murals are designed for businesses, restaurants, hotels, offices, and public spaces. They are typically larger in scale, require more durable materials, and often involve branding elements or thematic storytelling. Residential murals are usually smaller, more personal in subject matter, and installed in private homes. Commercial projects may also require coordination with property managers, permitting, and lift or scaffolding access.

FAQ.

Have a question thats not covered here?

Start with a discovery chat — send me the location, dimensions, and vision for the wall. I’ll review your space (photos or video walkthrough) and ask about your timeline, budget, and intended audience. Then I’ll prepare a proposal with design concepts, cost estimate, and timeline.
Key factors include size (square footage), complexity of the design, surface condition and accessibility (scaffolding/lift required), location (travel/time), materials and finishes (e.g., anti-graffiti coat), and whether it’s interior vs exterior.
Yes — I’m based in Omaha, Nebraska, but I frequently work in Texas (Dallas, Austin, San Antonio) and I’m happy to travel nationwide and internationally for mural projects. Travel and accommodation are factored into proposals for out-of-region jobs.
It varies depending on size, design complexity, wall preparation and weather (for outdoors). A smaller interior mural might take a few days, while large exterior installations can take weeks, including prep and finishing.
Walls should be clean, dry, structurally sound and free of peeling paint or damage. For exterior walls, we may need to clean, prime and apply a suitable base coat before painting. If the site has an anti-graffiti layer or unusual texture, that will also affect prep and cost.
The mural itself is installed at your space — you receive the physical work for the site. However, the artistic copyright is retained by me (Joe (Turk) Diril) unless otherwise negotiated. I reserve the right to document and use the images for my portfolio and promotion. We can discuss transfer of full usage rights if needed.
During the design phase I provide sketches, digital mock-ups and a chance for your feedback. Once painting begins, major changes (in design, size, location) can impact timeline and cost. Minor tweaks might be possible depending on the stage.
A well-executed mural, using quality materials and proper coats, can last many years. I include recommendations for cleaning, potential touch-ups and protective finishes like anti-graffiti coatings. Exterior installations may need occasional reviews.
After the proposal is approved, we sign an agreement outlining scope, timeline, payment schedule and usage rights. A non-refundable deposit (typically 30–50%) secures the booking. The balance is due upon completion and sign-off.
Absolutely. I specialize in large-scale commercial, hospitality and public murals — whether brand-driven or purely artistic. I collaborate with property owners, brands, architects and general contractors to create murals that integrate identity, culture and environment.
Mural projects require lead time for design, materials, scheduling and logistics (especially travel or large exterior installs). A good rule is to begin discussions at least 4–8 weeks ahead of your desired install date — longer for larger or high-traffic locations.
Yes — once the mural is installed I provide professional documentation (high-res photos, video timelapse if applicable) for your archives and marketing. You are welcome to use these as part of your promotion and I will also share them via Turk Made It channels with your permission.

Ask Away!

FAQ.

Q: How do I begin the process of commissioning a mural?

Q: What factors affect the cost of a mural?

Q: Do you travel and where are you based?

Q: What is the typical timeline for a mural project?

Q: What wall or surface preparation is needed?

Q: Who owns the artwork once the mural is finished?

Q: What happens if I want a change after the mural has started?

Q: What maintenance will the mural require?

Q: How do we manage payment and contract?

Q: Can you work with my brand or integrate logos and corporate themes?

Q: How far in advance should I book?

Q: Do you provide images and documentation of the finished mural?