When it comes to how to get the best results from exterior house painting services, there are some things to keep in mind. These include using a licensed painter, applying two coats of paint, calculating the square footage of your home, and recycling old paint.
Find a Licensed Painter
If you’re in the market for exterior house painting services, you’ll want to find a contractor that knows what they’re doing. A professional can ensure that your property will look its best.
In some cases, you may find a local painter online. It’s a good idea to get references from friends or family members. They can tell you what to expect and offer ideas for your project.
Before hiring a painting contractor, you should make sure they’re insured. If a painting contractor isn’t insured, you could be liable for injuries and damages to your property.
Check to see if the painter is a member of a professional organization. This will help you to feel more secure. Also, ask if the company has a reputation. You can check with the Better Business Bureau to see if any complaints have been filed.
Another way to find a painter is to ask your real estate agent. They may have a list of painting companies that they recommend. The contractors on their list have a high-quality reputation.
Apply Two Coats of Paint
If you are planning on hiring a painting service, you may have a question about the difference between one and two coats of paint. It is important to understand that the best choice for your needs depends on your situation. You will know once you have tried them both.
The amount of time you need to wait between coats will depend on the type of paint you are using. Some paints need only 4 hours to dry before applying the second coat, while others require more. This is because the coating is heavier.
It isn’t uncommon to see painters spraying one coat with a sprayer and another with a roller brush. There are pros and cons to each technique, but in general, the painters using a sprayer will be able to achieve a wider coverage than a manual application.
A second coat is a smart way to ensure a more durable finish. Using multiple layers of paint physically strengthens the paint, resulting in a more resistant finish.
The quality of the paint will also have an effect. While the color will look good initially, if the paint is poor quality, it will not last.
In addition, more time for the first coat to dry will lead to streaks and peeling. Using a second coat will help to eliminate these problems.
Calculate Exterior Square Footage
To calculate the right amount of money to bet, the first step is to figure out what you are paying for. This can be challenging, as you may be paying for labor, paint, and other miscellaneous items. The good news is that, with a little planning, you can keep costs down.
The best way to do this is to estimate the total square footage of your home or business. You can do this by measuring the length and width of each side of the house. Once you have done this, you can multiply the result by two to approximate how much money you’ll need to spend. Next, you can calculate the best possible bids. For example, you could pay $80 per hour for a professional or do it yourself for a fraction of that.
It’s also worth noting that the cost of your home or business’s exterior paint job can vary greatly, depending on the company you hire. A few simple calculations can make sure that your investment is well spent. While at it, consider purchasing a laser measure to ensure you have the right measurement for your project. Some companies offer free estimates. Ask questions before you sign on the dotted line.
Recycle Old Paint
When you hire exterior house painting services, it is important to ensure that the paint is properly disposed of. Leaving it in the wrong place can cause environmental damage and create safety hazards in your home.
Some states have passed legislation that requires manufacturers to collect leftover paint. Others have set up special retail drop-off locations. You can check with your local government to find out if they have such a program in your area.
You can also donate your leftover paint to a charity or school. Depending on the condition of the paint, the organization may be able to reuse it for its projects.
In addition, you can contact a professional house painter to ask if they can use the paint. They can offer it for free or give it to someone in need.
Another way to recycle old paint is to take it to a local recycling center. The center will typically be able to mix it with other colors and then sell it at a discounted price.
Before you bring your can of paint to the recycling center, you must ensure it is properly sealed. Any traces of mold or mildew in the can are a big red flag.
It is also important to ensure the paint is dry before you drop it off. Most retail drop-off locations require that the lid is removed.