What has to be done prior to painting?
Before any project is set to begin, you need to have a plan. The planning stage of any project, whether it is painting or building an addition is critical. It is the key foundation for every project that is performed by a professional or do it yourselfer. Many times, homeowners start a project and leave uncompleted because they fail to plan properly, leading to overwhelming problems once the project begins. The planning stage should include and isn't limited to budget, time and materials.
Do I need a budget?
The budget is a key factor in the planning stage because it sets the expectation of cost. There are some projects that will finish on budget or over budget. As the client or DIY person, you have to be ready for the unexpected. There are many factors that will influence a budget, and it may include weather delay or unexpected damage that surfaces. When working with a professional licensed contractor, you will receive clear communication and set expectation as to what is required in a budget along with a contingency. Weather may not be huge factor depending on the season and or location of the project.
What do I do to prepare for painting a home?
When painting a home, there are several steps that will take place before any paint is applied. A walkthrough will reveal what will be necessary and to the trained eye, will pick up certain imperfections that will require attention. We will discuss the scenario involving older home with existing paint. Upon a detailed walkthrough, it is determined that there is peeling paint, cracks, blisters, dry rot and exposed wood. All these areas will require certain amount of care and repair. Initially, home will need to be properly pressure washed and allowed to dry. The peeling paint will need to be scrapped off, the cracks filled, blisters popped and dry rot removed or repaired depending on the severity. Once the surface repairs are completed, and bare wood surfaces are primed, the process of apply paint can begin. Exterior paint will dry within a few hours, however, it will be several weeks before it cures properly.
VOC, what is that?
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC), are the chemical off gas or fumes that you may smell during cabinet refinishing, interior paint or from adhesives to name a few. In many cases, your painter can use low and no VOC paint. If you are looking for a house painter that uses low or no VOC paint, and you reside in the Grants Pass and surrounding areas, you should contact The Paint Bros. Whether you are refinishing kitchen cabinets or interior paint throughout the house, there are various safer options available that you can discuss. Something to consider, lacquer and oil-based paints will have a high amount of VOCs and these fumes can be extremely harmful to your health. If any of these products are being used on your project, you should and would be informed to take the necessary precautions.
Do I need special equipment?
The right tool for the right job, as it goes. One example is painting the front door of your home. Some paints will require a paint sprayer to avoid brush marks and yes, a paint roller may not be an option. Kitchen cabinets will require sanding and with this you will produce a lot of dust. The proper equipment is necessary for each project.. This combined with knowledge is where your professional painter will save you time and money. Your home is large investment and you want to preserve it properly.