How to Choose a House Painter
By hiring a professional house painter it can take a lot of stress of the homeowner’s shoulders. Finding the right one to complete the painting job can mean additional stress if one is not real certain what they are looking for. There are several considerations which need to be made when determining which painting contractor is the right one for your house. Here are some tips on choosing the right house painter to complete your home painting projects.
Ask for Referrals
One of the best ways to locate a reputable painting contractor is to ask around. Friends, family, and neighbors have all had to have painting projects completed at one time or another and chances are one of them will be quick to offer a referral for a contractor who has completed a job satisfactorily for them at some point. If you are new to an area, the best place to get a referral for a professional painting contractor might be the local paint store. They will be aware of the painters in the area and are likely to know of some who are of good reputation.
Get at Least Three Estimates
Once you have found several painting contractors you will want to get estimates from them. Give each one the same details about what you hope to get accomplished and the final product you desire. They should all give you a rough estimate of what the cost will be to complete the job satisfactorily. Estimates are typically in the same price range or very close to it. If a contractor gives an estimate that is very different from the others ask them what is or is not being done. You will want to obtain at least three estimates before making a final choice.
Interview Every Candidate
There are certain questions that should always be asked of any painting contractor. Ask them how long they have been in business and if they are a member of any professional associations on both the local and national levels. You will also need to know if they are bonded and insured; and if they have the proper licenses that are required by the state. Ask them what products they use and if they subcontract any work or do it all themselves. And finally, ask if they offer a written guarantee of their work and if they can provide any references. Be sure to always check the references to see what their past customers have to say about them. If it is possible, visit the site to see how well the job was completed.
Painter’s Behaviors
When you meet with the painting contractor, pay attention to his behaviors as they can give you an indication of his character. Does he conduct himself with professionalism and experience? And is he business like but courteous? You will also want to know how busy he is – a good contractor is usually busy! Does he return phone calls and answer questions in a timely manner? Was he on time for the appointment? These are all practical aspects that help you discover what type of character the contractor has. If he does not return phone calls when trying to secure employment, you really cannot expect anything different after he gets the contract.
Review the Contractual Terms
Once you have secured a painting contractor ask for a written copy of the contract and take the time to review it carefully. Make sure you can verify what is being painted and the paint colors each area is to be painted. Verify the details about how preparation and cleanup will be handled and how they will protect furnishings, plants or other items in the area to be painted. It should also state how long it should take to finish the project as well as how much and when the contractor is expecting to be paid.
Ask for Referrals
One of the best ways to locate a reputable painting contractor is to ask around. Friends, family, and neighbors have all had to have painting projects completed at one time or another and chances are one of them will be quick to offer a referral for a contractor who has completed a job satisfactorily for them at some point. If you are new to an area, the best place to get a referral for a professional painting contractor might be the local paint store. They will be aware of the painters in the area and are likely to know of some who are of good reputation.
Get at Least Three Estimates
Once you have found several painting contractors you will want to get estimates from them. Give each one the same details about what you hope to get accomplished and the final product you desire. They should all give you a rough estimate of what the cost will be to complete the job satisfactorily. Estimates are typically in the same price range or very close to it. If a contractor gives an estimate that is very different from the others ask them what is or is not being done. You will want to obtain at least three estimates before making a final choice.
Interview Every Candidate
There are certain questions that should always be asked of any painting contractor. Ask them how long they have been in business and if they are a member of any professional associations on both the local and national levels. You will also need to know if they are bonded and insured; and if they have the proper licenses that are required by the state. Ask them what products they use and if they subcontract any work or do it all themselves. And finally, ask if they offer a written guarantee of their work and if they can provide any references. Be sure to always check the references to see what their past customers have to say about them. If it is possible, visit the site to see how well the job was completed.
Painter’s Behaviors
When you meet with the painting contractor, pay attention to his behaviors as they can give you an indication of his character. Does he conduct himself with professionalism and experience? And is he business like but courteous? You will also want to know how busy he is – a good contractor is usually busy! Does he return phone calls and answer questions in a timely manner? Was he on time for the appointment? These are all practical aspects that help you discover what type of character the contractor has. If he does not return phone calls when trying to secure employment, you really cannot expect anything different after he gets the contract.
Review the Contractual Terms
Once you have secured a painting contractor ask for a written copy of the contract and take the time to review it carefully. Make sure you can verify what is being painted and the paint colors each area is to be painted. Verify the details about how preparation and cleanup will be handled and how they will protect furnishings, plants or other items in the area to be painted. It should also state how long it should take to finish the project as well as how much and when the contractor is expecting to be paid.