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interior/exterior painting, painters,
Written by Colleen Kalil

A Consumer’s Guide to Trendy Paints

interior/exterior painting, painters,America is a country of choice. We like choice in everything we do – from our breakfast drinks to our appliances, our jobs and to our modes of transportation. In fact, we insist on it. Choice drives the economy! One can sometimes wonder if perhaps we don’t have too many choices on occasion. Take, for instance, paint. Those paint companies seem to never run out of subtle differences in shades that make it possible to offer a hundred variances on the simple color ‘white’ if we are so inclined to opt for them. But then try comparing them side by side. It can be overwhelming.

Indeed, the savvy consumer can quickly become bogged down with the intricacies of something as simple as picking out a paint color. There are dozens of brand names that all compete for the title of highest quality and most exclusive. Some paint companies prefer to market to the public as having the ‘greatest value’, ‘wear-ability’ or ‘durability’. So, you can see, that choosing paint is not nearly as simple as it might have been even twenty years ago. Is there anything out there that can help make the decision process easier?

Actually, there is. Consumer Reports, a magazine long respected for its thorough examination of many market niches, takes the time on occasion to test a wide variety of paints for multiple factors including, but not limited to, the very ones we spoke of in this blog. While we would not tout one paint over another for any reason in our blog – even if it has the Consumer Reports seal of approval – we would point you in their direction and advise you to take the time to read their research before making any final decisions. An educated consumer makes better choices.

However, we will second one of their most astute observations. As noted in a Consumer Reports study regarding paint options, it is a good idea to stay away from the cheapest brands. They will likely not provide the ‘wear-ability’, ‘durability’, or thorough covering you can expect from the more popular, and usually more expensive, brands.

It’s usually true what they say – you get what you pay for.

Need more hints about painting? Contact the experts at Universal Painters, Inc. Our goal is to provide the best service for your home.

interior painting,paints, painters
Written by Colleen Kalil

How To Choose The Right Colors For Your Kitchen

The kitchen is one of the busiest places in the home. It’s where your family cooks, eats, and spends time together. When you decorate your kitchen, you want to transform it into a special space you’ll be happy to come home to. Can’t decide on the perfect colors for your kitchen? Follow these steps to design your perfect kitchen.

Choose Your Favorite Colors

Forget about the trends. You want to paint your kitchen in the colors that you enjoy looking at every time you walk into the room. Sure, you can explore the popular options, but make a choice on what makes you happy. The popular or trendy paint colors may be easier to find, but the classics will make a lasting impression on your kitchen.

Create Your Own Color Palette

Once you know what colors you want to use, decide on your color palette. Visit a home improvements store and choose paint chips that stand out to you. Bring them home and see how well they go with your kitchen. Or, you can skip the trip and find stunning color palettes on Pinterest.

Start With Your Cabinets

This is the perfect place to start if you’re repainting or replacing your cabinets. Your cabinets and drawers are the focal point of your kitchen and should stay that way. Choose your colors with a long-term plan in mind. White cabinets may look pretty, but dirt shows up quickly, especially if you cook a lot.

Keep Your Countertops Neutral

You don’t want your countertops to clash or compete with your cabinets. While they may have one of the biggest surfaces in your kitchen, you want to keep them neutral. Choose neutral colors that best complement your walls, backsplash, and cabinets. This will also help you extend the life of your counters if you choose to renovate or repaint your kitchen later on.

Go Crazy With Your Backsplashes And Paint Color

This is where you can let your imagination run wild a little. While countertops and cabinets tend to use neutral colors, your paint color and backsplash is where you can get a little creative. Bright colors will make you smile every time you walk into your kitchen.

There are many options for backsplashes, including glass tiles. Since cabinets and appliances cover most of your walls, use a pop of color that you normally wouldn’t use in a room that’s painted in one color. An accent wall can allow you to use your favorite color without it dominating the entire room.

Decorating your kitchen can help liven it up. It can even change the view of the rest of your house. Whether you’re considering a major renovation or just one room, adding a new coat of paint will improve your home. Contact University Painters today to discuss the plans of your project and to learn more about our interior painting services.