Confessions of a House Painter
What’s the most common mistake people make when they choose a painter? Are premium brands worth the price? Get all of the answers right here from our pro.
What makes you crazy when estimating a job?
JOE NICOLETTI : The assumption that my time doesn’t matter and that I’m ready, willing, and able to offer advice at great length and at no charge. And then when I give the estimate, to be told, “No, I think I can get it done cheaper.” A lot of people shop painters not just to compare price, but also to steal ideas that they then will turn around and do themselves, or ask their grandmothers to do for them. My antenna goes up as soon as I suspect it. I don’t want to do that dance.
What’s the most common mistake people make when it comes to choosing a painter?
Hiring the cheapest guy, and then expecting too much. Or hiring the guy you think you can take advantage of, and then having to make all the decisions yourself.
How much prep work should I expect?
It depends on how many moving parts a room has. Let’s say it has chandeliers, fireplace paraphernalia, alarms, window locks. We catalog and photograph each item before either removing it or securing it from any damage. Then when we put everything back in place, it’s an easy check to see if anything was damaged.
Do you believe in brushes, rollers, or sprayers?
You need a combination of all three. Some of it’s logical, some a judgment call the painter makes. In most cases, for instance, you wouldn’t use a sprayer on trim. The key is not only to use fine brushes, fine rollers, and the best airless sprayers, but also to keep them absolutely clean. Dirty brushes or rollers will leave streaks, and a dirty sprayer will spray unevenly.
Do you paint the trim first, then the walls?
Every situation is unique. Is there a builder involved? Other tradespeople? Are the rooms loaded with fine architectural details? Do the clients have particular preferences? Some ask you to paint the walls first – they want the instant gratification of fast change. Others want to gauge the look of the trim work before anything else is done. Typically, though, it makes the most sense to start with the ceilings and the walls, and move on to the molding, door trim, doors, and baseboards.
What are the best paint finishes for different surfaces?
Anything goes these days. High-gloss oils on walls? Why not! Metallics on glass? Sure! But if you’re asking what the standard is, I’d say satin or semigloss for doors, molding, and trim, and flat for walls and ceilings.
Is it worth paying more for the premium brands?
The premiums spread more smoothly and adhere to surfaces better. They require fewer coats to get that nice uniform appearance. They tend to last longer. They’re more resistant to the normal dirt and staining that comes from everyday life, and they generally hold up to repeated cleanings much better.
What’s your feeling about “green,” nontoxic paints?
I think “green” is an overused word, and a little overblown. A relatively low percentage of clients ask for low-VOC or non-VOC paint. Frankly, a lot of people consider the level of toxic emissions in paint a negligible risk factor.
How many coats will I need?
A primer is a must. And generally two or three coats, depending on the condition of the surface.
How long before I’ll need to repaint?
Barring fires or floods or a rambunctious dog, you could go from five years to forever – with normal touch-up maintenance.
What should I do if the painter is midway into a job and I realize the color is all wrong?
Don’t hesitate. Tell him. In most cases, he’ll do it over for a minimal charge if the change isn’t too extreme. If it’s lacquered red and you decide you want white latex flat, that’s going to cost more.
Should I get a written warranty?
Every job should have a signed contract specifying what you’ve agreed to. It helps avoid misunderstandings, disappointments, and unrealistic expectations.
How do you manage a client’s expectations?
Communicate. Show them you’re listening. Be willing to make changes as the job evolves. Don’t get locked into an adversarial relationship. You’re on the same team.
What can I do to make life easier for you?
Be open to my suggestions. Make me feel like a partner, not an employee. Sure, I want to make money, but I also want to do good work, feel a sense of accomplishment and pride and, yeah, even have some fun along the way. Tell me every once in a while, “Hey, that’s really looking good.” And when the job is done to your liking, say “Thanks.” Makes a world of difference.
By John Montorio HouseBeautiful.com
