How to Choose the Right House Painter: Questions to Ask Before Hiring

You might have only recently decided your house is in dire need of a fresh coat of paint. That’s a commendable choice! A well-done paint job can surely improve curb appeal. It also is truly the simplest and quickest way to transform your space completely.

However, before you jump right in and make a choice, you’ll want to make sure you hire the right professional for the job. Not all painters are created equal, and asking the right kind of questions at the start of the process can save you quite a lot of headaches down the road.

Here are some questions you must ask;

1. Are you licensed and insured?

Before you even take a look at their portfolio, make sure your painter is licensed. Different states have varying requirements and it is essential for painters to have both liability insurance (for damages) and workers’ compensation (to protect you from being held responsible for on-the-job injuries). It should be quite easy for the painter to provide proof of this.

2. Can I see some references?

Always, always ask the painter for a portfolio of their past work as well as a list of satisfied clients with reviews. Reputable Germantown house painters should be able to provide you with this as well as a list of references you can contact for a background check. Looking for more reassurance? Consider visiting a house they’ve recently painted.

3. What type of paint(s) do you use?

Paints aren’t just of one type. The quality varies from company to company. The techniques to apply the paint also differ, and so does the color. Moreover, different types of paints exist for different purposes such as weather-resistant paints that keep your house protected from the elements (an ideal choice if you live in extreme weather conditions). 

A painter who has enough experience will be able to figure out what kind of paint will suit your house best. They can recommend it to you off the bat. They can also provide you options depending on your home’s needs, the climate, and your budget.

4. What does the quote include?

This is an extremely important and smart question as it saves you from hidden costs. Make sure you get the quote in written form and ask them to break everything down, which includes labor costs, material costs, prep work, and any additional fees along with its explanation. Make sure you understand what is included.

5. What is your process?

This is not just one question. It is one wrapped in many. You could potentially dissect their workflow by asking them multiple questions such as;

• How do you handle surface preparation? Do you scrape, sand, and prime before painting?

• Does the cost include minor repairs like filling cracks and caulking gaps?

• How many coats of paint do you apply?

• How long does it take for you to finish a job? What effects do potential roadblocks (such as bad weather) have on the cost?

• Will you handle the cleanup (such as removing paint drips, debris, and supplies) after the job?

Invest in the Right Paint-Job Today

Ask all the right questions so you don’t end up with a painter who adds no value to your home! A little extra research can lead to a paint job you will love for years to come. So, grab that color swatch and start planning your home’s new look.