[vermontpainter]

This week I talked with two customers, both new, who had never hired a paint company in the past, and really didnt know much about the services that a good paint company can offer. It was interesting to pick their brains as well as answer their questions. Each referred to alot of online research during the process of thinking about house painting and hiring a paint company.

On the surface, that idea is a little scary. Who knows what type of advice homeowners might be receiving online about paint companies. It is just the reality of our time. Here is a pretty good example of what I would like to think they are finding for advice. What are your thoughts on the content of this article?

By Kim Ray

Hiring a professional to complete a painting project is an easy alternative to doing the job yourself, especially if you’re lacking the proper gear. A professional painter has all the necessary equipment to get the job done quickly and easily, especially when dealing with elevated areas. If you can afford to hire a painting professional, there's no easier way to get the job done and get it done right. Best of all, a true professional will guarantee your satisfaction.

A paint job won't improve the appearance of your home if it appears unprofessional or if the products used are substandard. A completed paint job is only as good as the products used, and it won't wear well if the area is improperly prepared before application. That's why it's of the utmost importance to do your homework before deciding on a painting professional. Invest your hard-earned money wisely before hiring someone to paint your home. Whether you require someone to paint one room or the entire house, it's vital to hire a well-qualified professional to complete the job.

Locating Professional Painters

When you're ready to begin your search for the right painting professional to complete you job, look in your local yellow pages, or search online under Painting Contractors. Depending on your location, chances are you'll find an extensive listing of professional painters in your area.

You can also obtain a list of painting contractors through a local paint stores or home improvement retailers. Many businesses that sell paint and related supplies offer contact information for painting professionals as a service to their customers, and many provide bulletin boards where contractors can post their business cards.

Interviewing Painting Professionals

Hiring a painter on estimates alone isn't a wise decision. When obtaining estimates and proposals, take the time to interview prospective painters in an effort to find the right company to complete the work. Knowing the questions to ask could mean the difference between a superior job and a job that’s less than satisfactory.

Begin by asking prospective painters questions regarding their background and experience. Find out if they have worked with local homebuilders or well-known local companies. Those who regularly work with popular local companies are good candidates for the job.

Ask painting contractors if they are licensed, bonded, and insured, and insist on documentation. Additionally, ask for credentials regarding compliance programs and safety training. These important considerations should be addressed and verified before making a final decision. Professional painters working in the best interest of customers will be more than happy to provide the requested information.

Product Quality

There are numerous brands and types of painting products available, so don't assume the painting contractor you're considering will use top-quality products to complete your job. Always ask the brand name and durability ratings of proposed products. Ask questions regarding quality, and do your homework before hiring a professional painter. Get all information in writing, and if you're unfamiliar with brands and varieties, call local paint stores to inquire about the quality and durability of proposed paint products. You can't be too careful when the quality of goods and services are in question.

Checking References

Although references are a good indication of a well-qualified painting contractor, don't rely solely on references supplied by the painter. If there are unsatisfied customers, you can bet you won't be provided with their contact information. References supplied by the contractor are only as good as the paper they're written on.

Protect your finances and your home by contacting your local Better Business Bureau. If there have been negative reports on a specific contractor, the Better Business Bureau will have it on record. Keep in mind that complaints listed as resolved may not have been resolved to the satisfaction of the homeowner. It's in your best interest to look for a painting professional with an unblemished record.

Local paint stores are also a good source of reference. Those who sell paint on a regular basis are likely to know their best customers, and asking for references at a local paint store or home improvement store is a great way to find the right company for the job. Those who buy paint on a regular basis are likely maintain a steady flow of customers, and having a number of customers is an indication of a top-notch painting professional.

Comparing Quotes

Once you've obtained quotes from at least three painting contractors, it's time to comparison shop. Evaluate the quality of the products supplied as well as the bottom line. A lower quote isn't necessarily the best choice if the products used are of lesser quality.

When comparing quotes, take warranties into consideration. Those willing to warrant the job in writing will stand behind the quality of their work and the products they apply. Someone who warrants his or her services is preferable over someone who doesn't, no matter the final cost.

In addition, make sure a date of completion is included in the proposal, and consider the timeframe in which the contractor proposes to get the job done. If you receive a lower offer but have to wait an unreasonable amount of time for completion, it might be worth the extra expense to go with the higher bid.

© Doityourself.com 2006​

 

[bikerboy]

This week I talked with two customers, both new, who had never hired a paint company in the past, and really didnt know much about the services that a good paint company can offer. It was interesting to pick their brains as well as answer their questions. Each referred to alot of online research during the process of thinking about house painting and hiring a paint company.

On the surface, that idea is a little scary. Who knows what type of advice homeowners might be receiving online about paint companies. It is just the reality of our time. Here is a pretty good example of what I would like to think they are finding for advice. What are your thoughts on the content of this article?

By Kim Ray

Hiring a professional to complete a painting project is an easy alternative to doing the job yourself, especially if you’re lacking the proper gear. A professional painter has all the necessary equipment to get the job done quickly and easily, especially when dealing with elevated areas. If you can afford to hire a painting professional, there's no easier way to get the job done and get it done right. Best of all, a true professional will guarantee your satisfaction.

I'd like to agree with most of this so far, but we know that homeowners can have a hard time telling "true professionals' from hacks. (true pro's wear white, but that's another thread)

A paint job won't improve the appearance of your home if it appears unprofessional or if the products used are substandard. A completed paint job is only as good as the products used, and it won't wear well if the area is improperly prepared before application. That's why it's of the utmost importance to do your homework before deciding on a painting professional. Invest your hard-earned money wisely before hiring someone to paint your home. Whether you require someone to paint one room or the entire house, it's vital to hire a well-qualified professional to complete the job.

have to again agree with the bulk of this paragraph. You just have to wonder if the homeowner received accurate and up to date information when "doing their homework."

Locating Professional Painters

When you're ready to begin your search for the right painting professional to complete you job, look in your local yellow pages, or search online under Painting Contractors. Depending on your location, chances are you'll find an extensive listing of professional painters in your area.

Any unlicensed hack can run an ad or own a website, the phone book and the web don't care if you are licensed and/or legit.

You can also obtain a list of painting contractors through a local paint stores or home improvement retailers.

In my area the paint stores only recommend their preferred contractors. Not necessarily the best qualified contractors, or even licensed contractors.

Many businesses that sell paint and related supplies offer contact information for painting professionals as a service to their customers, and many provide bulletin boards where contractors can post their business cards.

Interviewing Painting Professionals

Hiring a painter on estimates alone isn't a wise decision. When obtaining estimates and proposals, take the time to interview prospective painters in an effort to find the right company to complete the work. Knowing the questions to ask could mean the difference between a superior job and a job that’s less than satisfactory.

I like where she's going with this. Most agree that a quality job is almost never the cheapest job.

Begin by asking prospective painters questions regarding their background and experience. Find out if they have worked with local homebuilders or well-known local companies. Those who regularly work with popular local companies are good candidates for the job.

The problem here is that local homebuilders normally hire the cheapest painters to do a blow and go job. That does not translate into a quality re-paint. This is bad advice unless it is from a well respected high end builder who cherishes a great vs a cheap job.

Ask painting contractors if they are licensed, bonded, and insured, and insist on documentation. Additionally, ask for credentials regarding compliance programs and safety training. These important considerations should be addressed and verified before making a final decision. Professional painters working in the best interest of customers will be more than happy to provide the requested information.

Product Quality

There are numerous brands and types of painting products available, so don't assume the painting contractor you're considering will use top-quality products to complete your job. Always ask the brand name and durability ratings of proposed products.

What's a Durability rating? You mean a warranty? Berh has a great guarantee but do most here believe it is as good as say Duration, Aura or Timeless? This is where the Pro's knowledge should have more weight.

Ask questions regarding quality, and do your homework before hiring a professional painter. Get all information in writing, and if you're unfamiliar with brands and varieties, call local paint stores to inquire about the quality and durability of proposed paint products. You can't be too careful when the quality of goods and services are in question.

Checking References

Although references are a good indication of a well-qualified painting contractor, don't rely solely on references supplied by the painter. If there are unsatisfied customers, you can bet you won't be provided with their contact information. References supplied by the contractor are only as good as the paper they're written on.

true dat!

Protect your finances and your home by contacting your local Better Business Bureau. If there have been negative reports on a specific contractor, the Better Business Bureau will have it on record. Keep in mind that complaints listed as resolved may not have been resolved to the satisfaction of the homeowner. It's in your best interest to look for a painting professional with an unblemished record.

Local paint stores are also a good source of reference. Those who sell paint on a regular basis are likely to know their best customers, and asking for references at a local paint store or home improvement store is a great way to find the right company for the job. Those who buy paint on a regular basis are likely maintain a steady flow of customers, and having a number of customers is an indication of a top-notch painting professional.

Again parts are not true. You can have lots of customers because you do cheap jobs, or buy lots of paints because you do new construction, neither is an indication of being "top-notch"
Comparing Quotes

Once you've obtained quotes from at least three painting contractors, it's time to comparison shop. Evaluate the quality of the products supplied as well as the bottom line. A lower quote isn't necessarily the best choice if the products used are of lesser quality.

This may be one of the best sentences.

When comparing quotes, take warranties into consideration. Those willing to warrant the job in writing will stand behind the quality of their work and the products they apply. Someone who warrants his or her services is preferable over someone who doesn't, no matter the final cost.

I would believe this to be true in some respects.

In addition, make sure a date of completion is included in the proposal, and consider the timeframe in which the contractor proposes to get the job done. If you receive a lower offer but have to wait an unreasonable amount of time for completion, it might be worth the extra expense to go with the higher bid.

I'd say a great paint contractor, who is in demand may have a long waiting list. What's an unreasonable wait if you get the quality you want?

© Doityourself.com 2006​

There's an opinion Verm. The author makes some valid points. Maybe as clear as she can while being both brief and holding the readers interest. Not a bad article.

 

[vermontpainter]

Thanks biker.

I agree with your points. It could be alot worse though. I almost expect such articles to be more anti-painting contractor.

 

[bikerboy]

Have to agree with you. I figured the article was going to skewer paint contractors.

 

[JNLP]

I stumbled upon a few articles in the past. Some are great explaining why to use professionals & that prices are high for a reason when selecting most contractors. Then you have the ones that tell them how we're all thieves, expect to pay about $200 a room, and that you can paint it yourself for free & it'll look just as good.

Some good points, some not so good, but not all that bad of an article.

 

[bikerboy]

I stumbled upon a few articles in the past. Some are great explaining why to use professionals & that prices are high for a reason when selecting most contractors. Then you have the ones that tell them how we're all thieves, expect to pay about $200 a room, and that you can paint it yourself for free & it'll look just as good.

I haven't read one that bad, but some of the DIY shows on cable are pretty bad. My favorite recent one was a house flipper show (of course they do quality work) where they were spraying the finish coat on a new porch on bare wood. Forgot what the price was but it was low. After seeing how they did it, and the lack of prime and prep, I see how they got it done so cheap. Problem is, people watch these shows and expect us to do it for similar prices.

 

[RCP]

It is a challenge at times to educate customers! I have "won" bids being higher by showing some of the items mentioned in a detailed proposal. Sitting down with a customer and reviewing bids item by item and pointing out details that they are not even aware of is helpful.
Here is another article.

 

[Dave Mac]

I always include a "helpful questions when hiring a painting service" with every bid. People really like them. A lot of people who have never needed these type of service's really find them useful. People on the second or third home, and have used our type of service's before have a good idea what to look for.


I like the jaded customer myself, once you please them their yours for life.

A customers perspective is really how much experience they have at hiring contractors.

 

[GMack]

I always include a "helpful questions when hiring a painting service" with every bid. People really like them. A lot of people who have never needed these type of service's really find them useful.

Dave, what are some of the questions on the list, if you don't mind saying? Sounds like it would be a good tool in the packet . . .

 

[Dave Mac]

I have one for interior and one for exerior, they are basic.

1. does the contractor have local referenc's?? yes we do

2. Does the contractor have w/c and liability ins (and can prove this)?? yes we

3. Do you work directly with the owner or a sles rep??? owner

4. Does the contractor use the highest quality products availble from their
paint supplier?? yes we

5. Is the client left with touch up paint? yes

6. Is the property cleaned daily?? yes

7. Does the contractor have a long term warranty?? yes we

8. Does the contractor have a quality guarantee?? yes we do

9. Does the contractor let the client know of any rotten wood
before painting?? yes we do

10. Is their a clear scope of describing in detail the work to be done, and how it is to be done?? yes

I then have a cartoon on the bottom of the page with a nasty looking painter , with a big sling shot shooting gallons of paint a a house, whear the people are looking through the window at the painter, with a quote from the people saying "honey it was a mistake giving the painting job to the lowest bidder"

 

[johnthepainter]

what would a list of services offered look like?

is minor carpentry on the list?
about window cleaning?
drywall finishing?
gutter cleaning?
asphalt/driveway sealing?
wallpaper hanging?
prefinished stain/paint packages?
stripping?
signs?
complete bathroom remodel?
tuck pointing?
screens?
christmas lights?
decorative concrete finishes?

how about a vinyl siding division of your company? this could be for people on the edge,,,,lol.

what is a full service painter?

while at various projects, ive completed these extras:
repaired a moped,
gut and remodel bathrooms,
crown moulding, base and case, doors hung, window replaced,
roof leaks repaired,
plaster patches,
concrete walkway formed and poured,
pergola built, hedges trimmed,
tree removed, stump removal,
replace rotted sills,
replace a water heater, replace faucet, fix leaky faucet, replace p trap,
screen porches
drivit/eifs repairs
build window/flower boxes, build shutters, and install


once you work for people, and they like and trust you,,,,,,,and they have confidence in your abilities, they enjoy one stop shopping

what are the services you offer that set you apart from the rest?

i would suggest that painters avoid the "velcro sign syndrome" though

 

[RCP]

I have one for interior and one for exerior, they are basic.

1. does the contractor have local referenc's?? yes we do

2. Does the contractor have w/c and liability ins (and can prove this)?? yes we

3. Do you work directly with the owner or a sles rep??? owner

4. Does the contractor use the highest quality products availble from their
paint supplier?? yes we

5. Is the client left with touch up paint? yes

6. Is the property cleaned daily?? yes

7. Does the contractor have a long term warranty?? yes we

8. Does the contractor have a quality guarantee?? yes we do

9. Does the contractor let the client know of any rotten wood
before painting?? yes we do

10. Is their a clear scope of describing in detail the work to be done, and how it is to be done?? yes

I then have a cartoon on the bottom of the page with a nasty looking painter , with a big sling shot shooting gallons of paint a a house, whear the people are looking through the window at the painter, with a quote from the people saying "honey it was a mistake giving the painting job to the lowest bidder"

Dave, mind if I borrow some of those? I think I will modify this.

 

[Dave Mac]

My pleasure, please feel free to use it, in any way that will help.

 

[vermontpainter]

RC

Nice form. I can see how you could blend some of Daves material in and make it even better. I would also add a third column to allow for comparing two other contractors, since it seems most people get 3 estimates. I bet people use this and find it helpful, and it makes you look really good for helping them with their purchasing decision.

 

[RCP]

Thanks to both, I did get this form from here! or maybe CT!
I think it is things like this that help to educate the customer. Many have no idea about license, insurance, wc. I have copies of all and photos/testimonials in a presentation packet.

 

[GMack]

Thanks much Dave and RCP:thumbsup:

 

[painttofish]

Thanks to both, I did get this form from here.

PWG's form can be found in the file swap thread:thumbsup:

 

[mistcoat]

It is a challenge at times to educate customers! I have "won" bids being higher by showing some of the items mentioned in a detailed proposal. Sitting down with a customer and reviewing bids item by item and pointing out details that they are not even aware of is helpful.
Here is another article.

Thanks for the attachment RCP. Good article.

mistcoat(UK)

 

[bikerboy]

Thanks for the attachment RCP. Good article.

mistcoat(UK)

Like your "White bib and Brace Wearer" under you name, but since that is a Britishism, others may not get it. ( why do you guys persist in driving on the wrong side of the road?)

 

[johnthepainter]

dont bother with the packet,,,,,just focus on good repeat and referrals, they dont need packets of stuff telling them how to shop for a good painter.