The Painting Process

Choosing a Painter

The critical factor in a successful project is choosing the right contractor. You will want to select one who can perform the work to your expectation and satisfaction; unfortunately but understandably, this is usually not the lowest bidder. A professional contractor will take pride in his/her work, is happy to discuss options, and can list previous experiences and satisfied customers. Here are items you should know:

• Always verify that the contractor is licensed and insured. And bonded if the project is large.
• Written contracts are a MUST. It should explain the scope of work, project time schedules, and payment procedures.
• Invest time in verifying references. Contact the individuals on the list of previous clients. Ask if they were treated professionally and respectfully. Ask if they know of any other projects this contractor performed. Go and see the work.
• Discuss any guarantee or warranty programs the contractor and manufacturer might have.
• Is your contractor a PDCA member? Belonging to the Painting and Decorating Contractors of America means your contractor is an educated, dedicated, high-quality professional.

Color Aid

Decorators will tell you that paint color is THE most dramatic way to change a room AND one of the most difficult decorating decisions. Understanding color theory and the psychology of color is essential to making the best decisions. At Habitat Painting & Finishing, we're experts at color consultation. In addition to providing you with color charts and links to Web sites that help you choose color, we have a software program that illustrates how your habitat would actually appear with the colors you've selected. Plus, here are some helpful tips:

• Color goes up brighter than it appears on the color chip, so choose a grayer tone of the color than you think.
• Color goes up darker than it appears on the color chip, so choose a lighter tone of the color than you think.
• It's worth the money to buy quart-sized samples of colors you 're considering and put up large test spots on walls in various lighting situations.
• Do your research. Home decorating magazines often list designer's favorite colors. Check-out Web sites that help you select color; and if you see a color up that you like, don't be afraid to ask what it is or match it with a paint color selection guide.

Before We Paint

Prior to painting your home, a supervisor will call you to confirm our arrival and to go over any questions you may have. There are a few things that you will need to take care of before our crew arrives. Please review the checklist below and let us know if you need help with any of these items:

• Please remove any items that are next to your home (i.e. boxes, tools, toys, potted plants, etc.)
• Please have all areas of access available. You will need to remove any cars, recreational vehicles, boats, bikes, or any other items that could prevent us from gaining access to surfaces to be painted.
• Please have all pets inside or in an area that is safe and secure.
• Please have sprinkler system turned off for at least 12 hours before and after painting.
• We will need access to all doors to be painted.

The 14 Steps of Painting

It takes a lot more than a bucket and a brush to achieve a beautiful paint job. In fact, most of the work goes into the preparation prior to painting and the finishing after painting. Our 14 step process ensures a paint job you'll be proud of. You can count on it.

1. Remove all mildew
2. Pressure wash
3. Scrape & sand
4. Inspect for loose nails, etc. & repair
5. Mask all areas as needed
6. Apply prime coat to bare areas
7. Caulk windows & doorframes
8. Patch all stucco
9. Remove & replace fixtures as needed
10. Repair trim
11. Repair leaky gutters & downspouts
12. Apply all coats with sprayer, back rolling in the second coat
13. Clean-up & disposal
14. Walk-through inspection with client