In this week’s episode of the Artist Academy Podcast, I’m talking about the costs of ladders, scaffolding, and lifts for mural projects. If you’re taking on bigger walls, knowing what equipment you need and how much it costs can help you plan your budget and avoid underpricing your work.

I’m breaking down the numbers for buying and renting equipment, including single-level scaffolding at $300–$400, double-decker scaffolding at around $1,000, and lift rentals that can cost anywhere from $400 to $1,000 a day depending on the equipment. I’ll explain when buying makes sense, when renting is the better option, and how I decide what a project requires before putting together a bid.

I’ll also cover ways to manage equipment costs, from asking clients if they already have a lift available to working directly with rental companies to find the right setup. And because working at height comes with real risks, we’ll talk about the safety considerations that go along with these decisions. The goal is to help you budget more accurately, work efficiently, and protect your profits as your mural business grows.