Find me a local painter

Low cost painting ideas

2009-08-18T14:21:00.000-07:00

So that time has come again for you or a professional painter to paint your home. Your pre existing paint may be dirty or even chipping off the walls. Even if the paint is not so bad just yet, it could even be time to update to a more modern color scheme that reflects current trends in home decor or simply you as an evolved person who now has different moods and wants to exhibit that in the color choices your home displays. No matter what the circumstances are for you that call for a new paint job, for most of us cost is an important factor that can limit or even prevent home maintenance from occurring. Being that paint is an important aspect of keeping your home attractive and comfortable perhaps you would benefit from the following tips designed to help you achieve low cost painting that does not hurt your wallet much.

-Attempt painting yourself. If you are at all physically capable and have the time, doing the painting yourself will cut out so many costs related to having a professional do the work for you. You would be avoiding all sorts of labor fees and maybe even do it in less time if you are in that kind of position to try it out.

-Go to your local large home goods store that mixes and sells paint. Many times the paint mixing centers of these stores will have rejected cans of paint, in other words colors that customers requested but did not come out to their liking. These rejected paint cans might actually have good, usable colors for your job and will be sold at a discounted price.

-If you absolutely cannot do the painting on your own, see if a close relative or friend can do it for you. Out of love and appreciation, this person might not charge you a thing to do the work for you and if they do it could be very minimal, obviously much less than what a professional who makes a living off painting would charge you. If you do not have any one who can do that for you, perhaps try looking for some young students who may not necessarily do the highest quality job but deliver something acceptable that is also low cost.

So as you can see there are various methods for which obtaining low cost painting work is possible and not too difficult to find. Do a bit of research and see how you can save money on supplies like paint, that is, if you are doing the work yourself. If you are relying on someone else, see if any one you know will do it for free except for the raw material costs or if you can find someone to do it cheaply. The main point is that if you think about it and approach the situation with some creativity you will be able to get the job done right and for very little money and that is a relief to so many people.

Let us help you find the right contractor for the job! Simply click here to have up to 3 of our premier member painting contractors provide you with a FREE, no obligation quote!

A little paint goes a long way

2009-07-07T16:06:00.000-07:00

Painting the exterior of a home or commercial building can go a long way in terms of property value. We all know as much, however what is often overlooked is the fact that painting is a tedious task, even for the professionals. Hiring a paint contractor is the most sought after option. Given the amount of time, attention to detail, and other elements, the average person would just as soon hire someone to paint rather than do it him or herself.

There are, however, lots of projects that can be done prior to hiring anyone, to paint any infrastructure. Washing the building or home before having a paint contractor come estimate the condition and cost. A clean exterior will prove for a better, longer lasting paint job. A little exterior paint goes a long way when applied correctly and efficiently. Most people don’t realize the simple tasks that can be managed by a non-professional.

A little exterior paint goes a long way when contractors are smart and know how to manage their supplies. Too much paint can dry and look disturbing; while too little paint while allow the previous paint job to shine right through the top coat. These issues and many others are good to keep in mind. You are probably wondering why then, is the phrase ‘ little paint goes a long way’ occurring so much in this article. Well despite the fact that the too much too little scenario comes into play, we basically feel that, the motto suits the reality.

A quality and professional paint contractor, who strives for service and excellence, will be efficient and accurate in every and any job they are fortunate enough to perform. Exterior painters are waiting to help you create the new look you have been longing for.

The right painting contractor is out there, let us help you find them. Simply click here to have up to 3 of our premier member painting contractors provide you with a FREE, no obligation quote!

Painting on the inside.

2009-06-08T11:09:00.001-07:00

Let's face it, we all need the inside of our homes to painted every once in a while. Why not hire someone to help with that, such as a professional painting contractor. It will save you a lot of time and trouble instead of painting your interior yourself. Residential interior painters are looking to help you turn your walls into works of art. Hire professional painters, they will do a professional. quality job and take care of all the clean up. Residential painters are never more than a phone call away. Most professional will be local, able to set up a reasonable time frame, and friendly.

Plenty of homeowners have turned to hiring a professional residential painter, most often a local paint contractor. Helping local businesses is not only great for the local economy, it also ensures that you know first-hand who is working on your home.

Plan ahead, start saving, don't pass up the opportunity to give the interior of your home a makeover. Let us help you find the local painters in your area, all of who would be more than happy to provide a free estimate. SImply click here to be put in touch with at least three contractors, no obligation required!

Painting advice for new homeowners on a budget

2009-06-02T11:13:00.000-07:00

For all the new homeowners out there, who wouldn't mind a new exterior paint job, but who are on a fixed budget, the solution is closer than you think. While many paint jobs can be done by the owner, which is ultimately the cheapest way to engage in such a project, hiring a professional painter, or hiring help, shouldn't cause stress to homeowners or their budgets. There are more ways than imaginable to hire help, or to hire a whole paint crew for that matter. In every decision, it is advised to enter into it rationally, new homeowners should not rush into any contract with anyone simply so there house is the most beautiful on the block. Times are tough enough without worrying about which house is the best.

It has been found that a proper amount of research can lead to a stress free home improvement project. Spend time searching painting contractors, either via the Internet or through close friends and relatives. Often, someone knows someone who could be just the right contractor for the job. Either way, spend time familiarizing yourself with your options.

Another piece of advice for the new homeowner would be to have an idea or a vision as to what colors would be appropriate. It would be frustrating if midway through the project, the color doesn't satisfy the homeowner, and the project had to be halted and restarted. This could upset your contractor as well, who could potentially, in their frustration, charge fees for having to redo a job. A way to avoid this is to explore your neighborhood, and other neighborhoods, to see with your own eyes what works and what doesn't.

Getting an estimate should be done in a way that doesn't make any homeowner feel pressured. Exterior house painting does not need to be a troubling matter. That is why we believe the best advice is to verify with each contractor that you contact to do a paint job for your home. First which contractor will give you a free estimate, and second, have several estimates performed so as to compare prices and materials. A worthy painting contractor will seek to work with the homeowner, and seek to earn their business by negotiating and even accommodating them if at all possible.

When all is said and done, the way your home looks on the outside, while important to all new homeowners, should not break the bank in any way. If possible, try painting the front of the exterior, and then wait until you have the means to complete the rest of the house. Depending on the size of course of your home and whether or not that would look or feel awkward. It is merely some advice to consider before starting any exterior paint project.

Let us help you find the right contractor for the job! Simply click here to have up to 3 of our premier member painting contractors provide you with a FREE, no obligation quote!

Beginner's Guide to Hiring a Painter

2009-05-28T13:55:00.000-07:00

Whether it is walls, window sills, moldings or practically any type of surface in your house that can be painted, most of the time within a few years that surface will need to be painted again. Surely you may have painted most of the surfaces in your homes but as you know it is not always easy and sometimes you just do not have the time or agility to do the job right. In this scenario most people hire a painter, usually a professional individual who is highly experienced in the field and can do a good paid job of painting. He or she can not only make better choices when it comes to type of paint or color but take the stress away from many of the steps in painting that you would otherwise have to face on your own.

We all know that painting is not always a simple job and some complications can arise when you take on the task of painting. For example, let's say you live in an older type of home with plaster walls. You may find that as your house has settled, the plaster has cracked. So not only do your walls need to be painted but these cracks in the walls will have to be scraped for any loose debris, refilled with new plaster, primed so the plaster seals and then the wall can be painted. If you did not consider this and observed the problem after starting to paint, you may risk losing time by having to stop and buy the necessary supplies. Consulting a professional beforehand will enable him or her to determine these situations before starting the job so it ensures they come with all necessary supplies and tools. That in and of itself is a load off your back.

On another note, your professionally hired painting expert may have other expertise unrelated to the physical and technical act of painting itself. He or she may also choose the right color scheme for your painting job and attempt to match the paint colors to your tastes as well as the furniture and decor in your home. Understandably not all will be interested in this aspect of painting but you can always ask the person you hire to take this into consideration and if they are not willing, simply look for another person who includes that as part of the paid job.

So as you can see, the thought of painting may be fun and refreshing because it means there will be a new era for your walls or whatever it is that is being painted. Even though it painting is a largely positive experience for you and your home in terms of happiness and upkeep, as previously mentioned, painting can include some risks and pitfalls that a professional painter would be able to avoid as part of his or her expertise. Consider hiring one today and your painting job could be all the better as a result of your wise choice.

Let us help you find the right contractor for the job! Simply click here to have up to 3 of our premier member painting contractors provide you with a FREE, no obligation quote!

Avoid contractor scams

2009-03-06T11:42:00.000-08:00

We hope these insights help the hesitant consumer!

Avoiding contractor scams can be a difficult task. Many consumers are unaware of the signs of a scandal. In this day and age, being able to identify the signs of a scam will help a lot of homeowners avoid being ripped off, and ultimately lead to a better customer service experience.

Here are a few things to watch for when you first come in contact with contractors:
(content generated from www.fool.com)

1) Scare tactics: "Well, your chimney looks about ready to fall over. If that lands on someone's head they're a goner. And you could have one dandy lawsuit."

2) The hasty quote on a big job: "I figure $5,800 should do it," says the contractor as he glances at the complicated repair, then quickly scribbles a number on a scrap of paper.”

3) No identification: "Sorry. I forgot my business cards. You can always look us up at our post office box address."

4) Refusal to provide referrals: "We don't give out customer names. We respect their privacy. You understand, don't you? I'm sure you wouldn't want me to give out your name to strangers."

5) Pressure tactics: "You'll have to sign up now. The manufacturer says the prices are going up right away."

6) In the neighborhood: "I've just resurfaced your neighbor's driveway and I've got materials left over to do yours. Looks like it needs work soon. I'll give you a really good deal."

7) Up-front payment: "That's gonna involve a lot of materials. I'll have to ask you to pay me now."

8) Refusal to provide a written guarantee: "If anything goes wrong, just call me. You have my word."

9) Under the table deals: "I can give you a good deal for cash."

10) Referral selling: "There's a big rebate for you if you refer customers to us." Or: "You'll get a special discounted price if we can use your home as a model to show off our work. We'll just put a sign on the front yard."

Here are some recently published media that highlight some of the top scams and also provide insight into recognizing scams by contractors:

Top ten scams of 2006 by consumeraffairs.com
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BcFKKvaxVq0
Avoiding contractor scams by Danny Lipford
http://www.dannylipford.com/diy-home-improvement/financial/avoiding-contractor-scams/

What To Do When A Contractor Scams You Or Does A Shoddy Job
by AtlantaHomesSouth.com
http://www.geocities.com/wesellptc/rtarticles/shoddycontr1.htm

Contractor scams explain by Mart Gil Abareta
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/5135/contractor_scams_explained.html

Use your common sense to detect warning signs. Trust your instincts!

College Works Painting is in the news!

2009-02-25T14:48:00.001-08:00

Branch manger wants to earn your business.

2009-01-21T17:00:00.000-08:00

Local Painting Contractor

2008-10-14T12:18:00.000-07:00

Photo courtesy of Sean Phelps

Have you looked around your house or home lately and decided it is time to have the place painted? If you are in this situation you are not alone because we all find the need for an updated paint job in our home ever few years or so. In the case of most people, you have already chosen a color scheme that works well or is otherwise neutral but it is simply dirty and dingy with a need for a new coat. Whatever the situation is, there are some things you will need to consider before you or someone else paints your place. It is just that, you need to decide if you will do it or if you will have a local painting contractor do the job. This usually depends on your physical ability to paint, level of interest, or time you can put into painting your home. Many seek a contractor because they can do the job professionally, often time for a reasonable amount of money and you do not have to worry about organizing all the aspects of doing a paint job.

If you so choose to hire a contractor to paint your home, there are some things you should consider. Do some research into the contractor perhaps on the internet or check with a local business bureau. Always go with someone who has been personally recommended to you by a family member or friend because if their judgement is good, you can usually trust this type of referral. Find out if the contractor has had happy past customers and not a slew of angry ones as this just means you will soon be disappointed as well. Although many people hire handy man type painters to do the job and they work well, perhaps you might consider a licensed or otherwise incorporated contractor who will probably be insured should anything go wrong during the paint job, in other words, if you and the contractor find yourselves in a legal situation.

A local painting contractor will do a good job of painting your place while giving you the ease of mind that you may need. After all, especially someone dealing locally will probably have a better feel of what a good color scheme is for your home compared to others in the area. Also, this frees you from the worries of painting on your own when you can dedicate your time to other things that require your attention. You can even find one who will do all sorts of color matching and interior design for you as well. All of this should be based on your individual needs and budget but in any case, going with a painting contractor should make your paint job look professional, attractive and provide a breeze of a task that might otherwise be cumbersome for you on your own.

Painting articles-exterior house painting

2008-10-02T12:26:00.000-07:00

Before Starting An Exterior Paint Project

When you own a home or building that has a painted exterior then you probably know every few years you will need to have the exterior repainted. This can be for many reasons. One, for aesthetics and cosmetic appeal. Two, for an especially protective coat on your exterior, sure to protect it from weathering. Three and probably the most common scenario is that the paint is simply peeling and it is time for a new coat of paint. At this point you will need to make several decisions. If you are going to change the color of the exterior, what color should you choose? If the paint layer is failing too quickly, should you consider a higher quality paint made specifically for outdoor weather repelling? Most important of all, should you do the paint job yourself or have someone else do it?

If you own a house or other building and have painted it on your own you probably know how strenuous and maybe even dangerous a job it can be. Especially if the building is high this invites disaster should you slip and fall. No paint job is worth serious injury so perhaps you should consider hiring a professional who is experienced in this area and knows especially how to handle painting at a high level where risk of falling is present. While the promise of being spared a difficult and dangerous situation is all too tempting, you should first do some homework and see that your contractor is on the level. Make sure past clients of his or hers are happy with their painting jobs and that they give a positive referral. You also want someone who not only knows how to tackle your individual situation well but someone who is privy to what your structure needs in terms of color, paint type or quality, and the other aspects of painting. Very importantly is that you also want someone who can give you a competitive rate for doing the job, but a quality job. If you are going to be paying well to have someone else do an exterior paint job, you should also be getting quality work done in return.

All of these and other reasons certainly do not make exterior painting a simple task. However, if you approach the situation wisely, with some research done, you can consult the help of an exterior paint contractor who will tackle your paint job well and do quality work for the money you pay him or her. Whether it be color scheme, paint type and quality or any other concern in the world of painting, a good and reliable professional should be able to take care of these worries without having you worry and that too is very important. If your exterior paint job seems daunting always remember that you can hire someone else to do a great job at it.

Painting articles-interior house painting

2008-10-02T12:24:00.000-07:00

The Steps to Interior Painting

Almost everyone has at least one room in their house that could use a new coat of paint. Even if the room doesn’t absolutely need new paint, it’s fun to change the look and feel of the interior of your home. While many love the idea of painting themselves, you are smart enough to know that you don’t have the time, the right equipment, or the skills necessary to really make the room look the way you want it to.

Even though it might seem simple, interior painting has several steps to complete to ensure that it looks the way it should. You would be much better off to allow a professional painter to come into your home and do the job correctly the first time. Take a look at some of the steps your contractor will complete to make your room look great.

Interior Painting

The first thing to do with interior painting is make sure your walls are in great condition to accept the paint. Your painting contractor is going to carefully clean the walls and allow them to dry. He or she will then look carefully over the room to look for any cracks or imperfections in the surface. Interior painters will often utilize spackle to fix up any problem areas where cracks and other imperfections could create problems. The next step is to apply the proper type of primer to the walls. Primer is primarily used to ensure the paint has something to adhere to and helps the paint last a long time.

Applying the paint itself is the next step for interior painting. Depending on the look you are after, he or she might use rollers, brushes, or a combination of the two to paint your room. Other specialty tools like sponges can be used to create faux finishes. Professional interior painters are prepared to help you get the exact look that you are seeking.

When it comes to interior painting, you can guarantee that the professionals are your best bet. Painters are adept at creating the finishes you want and promising durability at the same time.

About Us

2008-10-02T12:16:00.000-07:00

FindMeALocalPainter.com is a FREE service dedicated to help you find local, trusted painting contractors who can transform your home into a work of ar0t.

We can help you with projects from interior house painting to exterior house painting. Our premier member painting contractors carry the best warranties in the business, and are sure to keep your home looking it's best for years to come. All of our house painters are pre-screened and are ready to make your house painting project as simple as can be.

For more information, visit www.findmealocalpainter.com or call direct 949-734-6160.

National Service Group
1682 Langley Ave.
Irvine, CA 92614