Frequently Asked Painting Questions
How do I determine how much paint I will need to purchase before beginning a job?
Although it is best to have a little paint left over for touch ups or nicks, paint can be expensive and home painters often purchase much more than they need when tackling a painting project. All that you need to calculate how much paint you will need is a tape measure. Measure each of the walls in the rooms that you will be painting (or the exterior) and write the numbers down. Next, measure the height of the ceiling or area that you wish to paint.
For each room or exterior, calculate the circumference first (the area around the room or building by adding each wall together) and multiply it by the height. For example, if you have an area with two walls that measure 30 feet and two walls that measure 40 feet, the circumference is 140 feet. Multiply this number by the height of 8 feet and you have your square footage (1,120). When you purchase paint, take a look at the square footage on the paint container. For the most part, a gallon will cover 400 square feet. However, remember that most paint jobs require 2 coats. So, for the example above, you would need about 6 gallons of paint and primer.
What I should use to protect my carpet from paint drips and stains?
Many people take the cheaper route of protecting their carpet with a disposable sheet of plastic. However, the better option is to spend the extra money on a sheet of canvas. Plastic can get slippery and messy when paint drips on it and it is easy to trip over it when it bunches up during your painting job. However, canvas lays flat on the floor and soaks up paint rather than simply lets it slide around. Canvas can also stay in place around corners and in tight spaces where plastic will simply return to its original form. Best of all, you can use the canvas as many times as you like rather than just throwing it away after the job.
What type of brush should I use for painting an interior?
For most rooms, your best bet is to ditch the brush altogether and invest in a paint roller with an extension pole. For most rooms, the pole only needs to extend about 3 feet. However, there are poles available that can extend to as much as 18 feet. This method is much safer than using a ladder and helps to keep the paint job even over the wall and ceiling surfaces. Choose a metal pole rather than a plastic one. Also, try to find one with a non-slip grip to avoid costly slipping accidents that can be a real headache, especially when dealing with a different paint color on the ceiling than the walls.
How do I choose a tasteful paint color for my home or business exterior?
You can choose a great color for your home or business exterior by considering a few elements about the property and how your paint can contribute to them. For example, if your home contains a great deal of brick that are not painting, look closely to find some of the hues in the brick and consider some of those colors. You can also consider the type of property. For example, if it is a Victorian era house, you might choose some colors that were popular in that era to add to the aesthetic appeal of your property. If you want to express a calm and collected environment, choose warm colors. On the other hand, for a bright and busy environment a brighter color might be necessary.
Does paint expire?
Yes, paint does expire eventually. However, the specific life of paint depends on how well you store it, among other factors. When you are ready to store your paint, make sure you thoroughly clean the can's rim so that the lid can form a proper seal. Too much paint around the rim can build up and crack - letting air into the can. If you are using latex paint, you can pour a tiny amount of water around the edge to make sure it seals properly. You can also use plastic wrap over the top of the can before securing the lid. You can then store the can upside down after making sure that it is securely shut. This will almost guarantee a tight seal.
When you take out paint to complete a job, simply use common sense to determine whether it is still good. If it still has that paint smell, it is probably still acceptable. However, if it smells stale or off, it is likely expired. You can also try painting a small test amount on a surface to see how it dries before covering the whole wall. If it looks good when it dries, the paint is likely still acceptable.
What Goes into Creating a Painting Estimate?
After you’ve told us about your painting needs, and we’ve seen the property, we’ll work on an estimate. We will assess the number of hours a task will likely take and multiply our contractors’ wage by this amount. We then add the cost for required materials. The sum becomes the total estimate.
What Makes Some Paints More Expensive Than Others?
Different materials require the use of different paints. Some require thicker bodied paints, while others need paint with a certain texture or sheen. High-quality paints are usually more expensive, but they require fewer coats, which makes the painting process quicker. The end result is always worth it, high-quality paint.
Do You Use Oil-Based or Latex-Based Paints? What Are the Differences and Benefits?
We mainly use latex paints, but we sometimes use oil-based paints. Latex is a popular choice and can be applied to almost any surface. It also comes in a wide variety of finishes, but since its water based, it’s not great for metal surfaces. Oil is more durable, which makes it great for high-traffic areas like doors and trims; however, it’s more prone to age, so we try to use it sparingly.
Can You Paint Latex Over a Surface That Was Previously Painted with Oil?
Yes, with the proper prep work. Good-quality latex will adhere just fine to a properly prepared and sanded surface; however, you cannot paint oil over latex.
How Much Do Painters Charge?
Rates are generally determined by an hourly labor rate plus the cost for materials. The total cost will vary depending on the size and scope of the project.
How Do I Get an Estimate?
You can arrange to book an estimate either online or by calling our customer service representative. A consultant will ask some basic preliminary questions, and you’ll then have the option of booking a walk-through appointment. The walk-through appointment is generally more thorough, and you’ll be able to ask in-depth questions and explain your needs.
Do You Offer Any Environmentally Friendly Options?
Yes. We’re happy and proud to offer environmentally friendly options. We also strive to be eco-friendly in our use of materials, and always try to recycle leftover cans and products. Many paints on the market are now non-toxic and low in VOCs (volatile organic compounds). Feel free to ask a consultant about your many options.
How Do I Prepare for Your Visit?
We’ll do most of the work, but it’s a good idea to clean the project area so it will be free of any dust or dirt. We also recommend removing any ornaments or other obstructions. It’s not mandatory, but most folks choose to leave during the process, since it can get a bit messy.
Are You Insured and Licensed?
Yes, we are fully insured and licensed.
How Do Your 2-in-1 Paint and Primer Products Work?
2-in-1 paint and primers are thicker than regular paint and aim to combine both products into one simple step. These products work best on surfaces that have already been painted.