Even if the paint isn’t peeling on your house, it may be time to hire a house painter. How will you know?
There are a number of signs.
If the paint looks splotchy or feels chalky to the touch, it’s time to repaint. Or if you power wash your house and the water absorbs directly into the painted area, repainting is required to protect the surface.
So How Do You Find the Best House Painter?
You could bypass paint altogether and go with a ceramic coating company such as Rhino Shield of Southern California.
But if you’d rather stick with traditional paint, you’ll want to find a painting company that will be right for you.
Here are five questions that will help you find that perfect match.
1. Are You Insured?
This one is a must.
Painting contractors should have two types of insurance – Comprehensive Business Liability and Workmen’s Compensation.
The former protects your property from potential damage and should carry a million dollar limit in liability coverage.
The latter protects the workers while they’re working on your property. It also protects you from being liable should something happen to them while on your property.
2. What Sort of Training Do You Have?
Painting is more than just slapping some color on your house. It’s a trade that requires skill and knowledge. So it’s important that you hire contractors who have employees who are trained.
When a company doesn’t use subcontractors and has a formal training program, that’s a good sign that they’re serious about the business.
Having some formal training is beneficial for the following reasons:
- There will be fewer mistakes, accidents or mishaps.
- You will get a consistent, high-quality product.
- Your project will be completed in a timely manner.
3. Do You Have References?
You can, of course, read reviews on the internet. And you should. But a truly professional company will also be happy to provide you with references.
Be sure you know a few things about the list:
- How they got the references
- How they determined who would be on the list
- How old the references are
There should be a variety of older and newer projects on the list. And you’ll want to look in particular at the most recent project. Ideally, something done in the past month or so.
Then take some time to check these references. Ask the homeowners how well the company did the job and if it has held up over time.
4. What Do You Charge?
This is an obvious question that needs to be asked of all contractors. But establishing trust with your painting company is as important as having a trustworthy real estate agent.
So you need to give serious consideration to the answer.
The lowest bid may not be your best choice. Especially if they ask for the money up front or only accept cash.
And if they’re difficult to get a hold of hard to communicate with, the frustration and lack of trustworthiness may not be worth the savings in long run.
5. What Materials Do You Use?
Not all paints are created equal, so be sure you know what type of paint your house painter will be using.
Do your research to ensure that it’s high quality.
Once again, a low bid might be using lower quality products that won’t stand the test of time. So be sure you’re not getting cheated.
And ask the important questions. A true professional will be happy to answer them.
What Have You asked Your House Painter?
If you have other questions you’ve found were helpful, feel free to comment below!