How many coats of paint do professional painters do?

How many coats of paint do professional painters do? Professional painters typically do two coats of paint for most jobs, as standard practice for best coverage, durability, and color accuracy. Two coats provide uniform hide, even sheen, better washability, and longer lasting finish, especially when changing colors or painting over primer. For new drywall, they do one coat primer plus two coats finish. For repaint in similar color over good condition, some may do one coat if coverage is adequate, but two coats is standard for quality. For drastic color changes from dark to light, they may do primer plus two coats, or even three coats for deep reds and bright yellows that are transparent. For trim and doors, two coats of semi-gloss are standard. Professionals follow manufacturer recommendation of two coats for warranty and optimal performance. One coat often shows roller marks, uneven sheen, and poor durability, so pros almost always apply two coats, allowing proper dry time between coats, typically 2 to 4 hours, for smooth professional result.