Even before you’ve chosen a contractor for your house painting project, specific questions likely come to mind. You might wonder, “How much does hiring a professional cost?” or “Is the contractor licensed and insured?” and “How long will the job take?”

To ensure you don’t forget these essential questions, jot them down. Having a list handy when talking to potential contractors will help you evaluate them better. The more informed you are, the more confident you’ll be in choosing the right contractor to paint your home.

1. Are you licensed?

Absolutely, asking about licensing is essential. Licensing is crucial because it ensures that the contractor has met certain standards and qualifications to perform the job. A licensed contractor has been vetted by regulatory bodies, meaning they possess the necessary skills, knowledge, and adherence to industry standards. This reduces the risk of poor workmanship and legal issues.

Here are the types of insurance required for painters: 

• Liability insurance: This protects you in case the contractor causes damage to your property during the project.
• Workers’ compensation insurance: This covers medical expenses and lost wages if a worker is injured on your property.
• Bonding: A bond provides a safety net for you if the contractor fails to complete the job or meets other obligations.

Custom Painting, Inc. holds all necessary licenses, ensuring quality and reliability.

2. Do you carry insurance?

Insurance protects you from potential costs associated with accidents or property damage during the job. Ensuring your contractor has both licensing and the right insurance gives you peace of mind and protection throughout the painting project. Custom Painting, Inc. carries both general liability insurance and worker’s compensation insurance.

3. How long will the job take?

Several factors can affect how long your painting project will take. The size of the area to be painted is a primary consideration—larger homes or rooms naturally take more time. The condition of the surfaces also matters; if a lot of prep work is needed, like pressure washing, filling holes or sanding, this will add to the timeline. Weather conditions can impact exterior painting, while the complexity of the job, such as intricate designs or multiple colors, can extend the duration as well.

Here’s the typical duration for different types of painting projects:

• Small rooms (bedrooms, bathrooms): These usually take 1-2 days to complete, including preparation and drying time.
• Medium to large rooms (living rooms, kitchens): Expect these to take 3-4 days, considering more space and possibly more detailed work.
• Entire home interiors: Painting the interior of an entire home can take from a week to two weeks, depending on the number of rooms and their sizes.
• Exterior painting: Painting outside your home generally takes 5-7 days, factoring in the weather and the condition of the exterior surfaces.

Knowing these timelines can help you plan better and set realistic expectations for your painting project.

4. How much will the job cost?

When estimating the cost of a painting project, several factors come into play. The size of the area to be painted is a significant factor—larger spaces require more paint and more labor. The condition of the surfaces also matters; if the walls are damaged or need a lot of prep work, the cost will increase. The type of paint and finishes you choose can also affect the price, with higher-quality products typically costing more.

Here are the things that contribute to the overall cost of a painting project: 

• Labor: This is often the largest expense, covering the time and expertise of the painters.
• Materials: Paint, primer, brushes, rollers, and other supplies add to the total cost.
• Preparation work: Costs for cleaning, sanding, filling holes, and other prep work.
• Travel and overhead: Contractors may charge for travel time and other overhead costs.
• Additional services: Special finishes, custom colors, or additional tasks like wallpaper removal can increase costs.

Understanding these factors helps you get a clearer picture of what you’re paying for and why. It’s wise to get estimates from multiple contractors. Remember, extremely low prices can be a red flag for poor quality.

5. What brand of paint do you use and why?

There are several well-known paint brands that homeowners often choose for their projects. Brands like Sherwin-Williams, Benjamin Moore, and Behr are popular for their various colors and finishes. Sherwin-Williams is known for its durability and smooth application, Benjamin Moore offers excellent coverage and vibrant colors, and Behr provides great value with its easy-to-use formulas.

It’s essential to use high-quality paints, which have numerous benefits. They tend to have better coverage, meaning fewer coats are needed, which can save time and money. High-quality paints are also more durable and resistant to fading, ensuring your walls look great for longer. 

Custom Painting, Inc. primarily uses Kelly-Moore paints because of their quality. If you prefer a different brand, let our estimator know, though switching paint brands may affect the overall cost.

6. Can you advise us on how to choose a color?

When faced with the challenge of choosing a color, don’t hesitate to ask your painter for advice. They have experience and knowledge about how different colors will look in your specific space. 

Painters can provide color samples and even suggest a few options based on your preferences and the room’s characteristics. They can also help you visualize a color’s appearance once it’s on the walls, considering factors like lighting, wall texture, and room decor. This professional insight can make the decision process much less overwhelming and help you achieve a balanced and harmonious look for your space.

It also helps if you stay informed about current color trends. For example, neutral tones are often popular because they provide a versatile backdrop that can match various decor styles. Bold, vibrant colors can create a statement and add personality to a space, but they might best suit accent walls or smaller areas. Trendy colors can give your home a modern feel, but make sure they align with your personal taste and the overall style of your home.

7. Can I trust your employees? 

A good contractor should confidently say “yes” to this question. When hiring a painting contractor, asking about their hiring practices is crucial. A reputable contractor should perform thorough background checks on their employees to ensure they have no criminal history. This step helps guarantee that the people working in your home are trustworthy and reliable.

Reliable contractors hire employees, not subcontractors, so they have direct control over their team’s training and conduct.

8. Can you provide references?

Reputable painting contractors should readily provide references. They might also have a portfolio of recent work and contact information for satisfied clients, allowing you to verify their claims and see examples of their work firsthand.

So, you should always ask for references to get a sense of the contractor’s work quality and reliability. Speaking with past clients can provide valuable insights into their experiences and satisfaction with the contractor’s work.  We have done work through out the Bay area including Pleasant Hill, Lafayette, Moraga, Orinda, Walnut Creek, and Concord.

9. Do you provide a warranty? 

When considering a painting contractor, it’s essential to ask about the types of warranties they provide. Warranties can vary, but typically, they cover issues such as peeling, blistering, or flaking due to workmanship errors. A good contractor should offer a written warranty to assure you of their commitment to quality.

For instance, Custom Painting, Inc. provides a full five-year guarantee on both residential and commercial painting jobs. This written assurance helps protect your investment and provides peace of mind, knowing that the contractor stands by their work.  

10. Do you offer eco-friendly paint options?

Eco-friendly paints reduce indoor air pollution, making your home healthier, especially for those with allergies or respiratory issues. These products are also better for the environment, reducing your carbon footprint.

If you’re concerned about the environment or are looking for a healthier paint choice, you can ask your contractor if they use paints with low or zero volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Brands like Sherwin-Williams, Benjamin Moore, and Behr offer eco-friendly lines that perform well without harmful chemicals.

Conclusion

Don’t hesitate to ask questions and do thorough research when selecting a contractor. It’s important to understand their processes, verify references, and ensure they meet your standards to help you make an informed decision and ensure your project’s success.

If you’re looking for a reputable contractor, you can trust Custom Painting, Inc. to deliver exceptional results with our experienced, reliable team and top-quality materials. We offer a full five-year guarantee on our work, ensuring your satisfaction and peace of mind. Contact Custom Painting, Inc. today for a consultation by calling us at 925-686-0903 or filling out our contact form. Let us bring your vision to life with professional, beautiful results.