 |
|
|
| Choosing a Painter |
| |
Experience
goes  a long way when
choosing a painter.
The paint is the
final covering on the exterior and interior of your home. If
done
well, a fresh coat of
paint can make your house stand out in the
neighborhood for personal
satisfaction or for resale value.
Be sure to get several
references and detailed quotes from each of your
selected painting contractors when accepting bids. Often
times it
helps to set a deadline
for accepting bids. Be clear about when
you want the work completed and the timeframe from start to finish.
The prep work is the
most important part of the painting job. Find
out
exactly what the painters will do.
When choosing paint, as with all materials, you pay for what you get.
Always choose a
quality paint. Sherwin Williams, Benjamin Moore
or California Paints are good choices. There are many other local quality products. Check with your local paint stores.
Interior
Painting:
Questions to ask:
Will they sand and caulk all trim joints and
seams? How will they repair cracks or holes to drywall?
If your walls need more than one coat, will they lightly sand the walls
in between coats for a smoother finish?
How will they address any water damage/stains/marks on walls or
ceilings?
How many coats of paint will they use?
Exterior
Painting:
Will they powerwash?
How much will they scrape/ sand to remove old paint/dirt and to blend uneven areas?
How long will they wait to paint after they powerwash?
Will they replace any rotten sections of siding?
What will they caulk?
What will they use for a primer?
How many coats of paint does the estimate include?
How will they apply the paint (brush, roller, sprayer)?
If they use a sprayer will they follow with a brush (back-brush)?
Be sure to specify if trim is included, garages, out buildings, doors,
window sashes, cupolas, basement windows, foundation concrete, facia
board behind gutters, etc.
It is best to be as specific and clear as possible about the
work
you would like to have completed.
Do it yourself
Painting can be a very rewarding task to complete on your
own. It can also be very frustrating if you do not have the
experience or patience to complete the task to meet your standards of
quality.
Painting does not require expensive tools but it is importand to buy
quality equipment and paint. A quality brush, roller and
paint
wil give a more a professional finish.
If you do choose to paint, be sure to read a few how to books or online
websites to look for tips from the pros and always spend more time on
the prepwork. It will help with a professional finish.
|
| |
Hire a painter
|
|
|
|
|