Hire the Right Paint Contractor

Hiring a paint contractor is perhaps the most important decision you can make in any home improvement project. Not only does a proper paint job ensure the protection of your home from harsh weather elements, a properly painted home also presents your property with the ever desirable ?curb appeal?. Additionally, when done correctly, a properly painted home can look good for years to come.

Before you hire a paint contractor, you should familiarize yourself with the painting process so you can discuss these steps with your contractor. Exterior paint prep includes scraping all loose paint, removing and replacing damaged calking, washing exterior surfaces with a de-greaser or heavy duty cleanser, taping off window panes, masking chimneys and roofs to protect from over spray and making sure the paint itself is properly mixed and stirred prior to application.

To hire the best contractor for your home painting needs, we suggest you follow the tips below:

ASK FOR REFERRALS

Don?t be afraid to ask people you know and trust for contractor referrals, such as:

• Family
• Friends and neighbors
• Co-workers
• Homeowners of homes you admire
• Your local paint retailer

CHECK CREDENTIALS

When you speak to contractors you?re interested in hiring, ask them these questions:

1. Are you a member of the local Better Business Bureau or Angie?s List?
2. Are you a member of any local or national painting contractors? associations?
3. How long have you been in business?
4. Do you subcontract your work or perform it yourself?
5. Do you have insurance and bonding?
6. Can you provide references?

CHECK REFERENCES

Be sure to get at least three references from past customers. Speak to references directly and conduct site visits to determine how paint has held up over time.

PAY ATTENTION

Pay attention to the following signs and behaviors when speaking to potential contractors:

• Does the contractor project a sense of professionalism and experience?
• Is the contractor courteous and business-like?
• Is the contractor busy? Good ones usually are.
• Does the contractor return phone calls and provide estimates in a timely manner?
• Is the contractor on time for appointments?

KNOW WHAT YOU WANT

The more specific and clear you are about your project, the more precise your contractor?s estimate will be.

It?s a good idea to walk your property with each potential contractor and to discuss your needs as well as any aspects of your project that could affect the price. For example, let your paint contractor know exactly which surfaces should be painted (clapboards, windows, trims, eaves, facia, etc.) and which colors and finishes you want used.

Be sure that your contractor?s estimate includes the types of paints and stains you?ll need for the success of your project.

GET AT LEAST THREE ESTIMATES

When you receive contractor estimates, they should fall roughly within the same price range. If estimates are widely different from one another, be wary of contractors who bid too high or too low. Ask about what is not being done, and where corners are being cut.

REVIEW YOUR CONTRACT

Take time to review your contract, and be sure to ask questions about any details for which you need clarification. Be sure to ask about:

• The specifics on what is to be painted (house, trim, shutters, etc.)
• Details on preparation and cleanup
• Paint and primer brands and colors that will be used
• How many coats of paint will be applied
• How your contractor will protect plants, patios, and other items
• How much time the project will take, from start to end.
• When and how the contractor will be paid

Once you have followed the above tips, you?ll be ready to hire the right paint contractor ?and enjoy your newly painted home!

~ With thanks to the Painting & Decorating Contractors of America ~

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