Painting Jobs | University Painters

Regular Post

Written by Colleen Kalil

30 September 2018

What Professional Painters Wish Their Clients Knew

Whenever you spend money to improve or maintain your home, you’re making an investment in its value. When you hire professional service experts, you want their best work and it’s especially true with painters. Color is the first thing you notice when you step into a room followed by how well the paint was applied. Just as you want the best work from your painter, they’d like you to put forth your best efforts as well. Here are a few things the professionals wish their clients knew.

1. Back Seat Painters

You’ve hired an experienced professional so don’t look over their shoulder continuously. In addition to technical skills, a professional understands the product they’re using and its performance and properties. Asking endless questions and pointing out how you would do things differently isn’t just annoying, it’s rather insulting.

2. It Takes Time

If you want to end up with a spectacular paint job, you should expect about 30% of the time to be devoted to preparation work. There’s a distinct difference between a fast, slipshod job and a careful, painstaking process.

3. Do Your Part of the Prep

Your painter will expect to do the majority of the prep work as part of the project, but you can save around 10% on your project if you do your part preparing for the painter. Remove all pictures from the walls, put away knick-knacks or other valuable objects, and make sure the room is clutter-free. For example, if you’re painting your family room, make sure toys, clothes, and other items are put away and there’s ample room to work in. The painter is there to paint, not clean house.

4. Pets and Little People

Keep pets and children out of the rooms to be painted. It’s easy to imagine paint being knocked over, brushes on surfaces other than walls, and paint tracked all over the house. Besides the obvious, it’s a distraction to answer questions, pet the dog or cat, and it slows down the pace of the work. Remember, the painter should be able to focus on painting.

University Painters are experienced professionals and are not only good at our jobs, we’re good with our customers. Contact us today to meet with one of our experts and begin your project.

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Regular Post

Written by Colleen Kalil

25 September 2018

Updating Your Home’s Look for Less

Does your home seem to look duller these days? You can’t put your finger on it, but it needs to be updated. The whole house is not in need of a paint job. It’s only the shutters that could use a fresh coat. Shutters are a common addition to many homes. They serve many purposes. They can be a decorative addition or may be used to keep harsh sunlight out. If it’s the shutters that you want painted, here are some hints to tackling this job properly.

Choose a complementary or contrasting color that you are going to enjoy. Many people don’t realize just what an important role shutters play in the overall look of the house until they are painted a color that doesn’t look right. Try to find pictures of homes that are similar to yours and are sporting shutters in a color you are considering as a precursor to making the decision.

Clean the shutters thoroughly prior to the painting process. You may need to use a little bleach to rid them of mold and stains. Allow them to dry completely before moving on to the next step.

Just as you would when painting a house, the next step is to scrape off any paint chips or flakes. Otherwise they become part of the new paint job.

Now, prime the shutters just as you would the house. This helps to ensure they are ready to bond with the paint and allows the paint to adhere more thoroughly. A good priming job prior to painting also helps to guarantee a cleaner, brighter look that will last longer!

When you begin the actual painting process, start at the top of the shutter and work your way down. Apply the paint with a lighter stroke so the painted areas do not have tell-tale signs of paint brush marks.

Finally, apply two coats of paint. One will simply not give you the long-lasting paint job you are looking for.

Sound like a lot of work? Too busy to do the job yourself? Then turn to the professionals at University Painters. We have been in the interior, exterior and commercial painting business for 32 years. We will treat your home as if it’s our own.

Regular Post

Written by Colleen Kalil

3 September 2018

Prepping Your House for that New Exterior Paint Job

Exterior Painters,paint,painting company You’ve finally decided it’s time to spruce up the outside of your home. Maybe you are getting ready to sell it or maybe you just want to have a house that looks good inside and out. Well, everyone knows you need to pick out the color. That’s the fun part of the job. But there’s more to painting a house than putting on paint. There are a number of steps that must be taken to be sure the surfaces are prepped and ready to receive the color and reflect it in the best way possible for years to come. Let’s consider these steps more closely.

Trim back shrubbery, trees and other landscaping so they do not become part of the paint job.
Begin the painting process by cleaning the entire exterior of your home completely. You want the house to be fully clean so the paint doesn’t dry with dirt and other pollutants mixed in. The best way to do this is to power wash your home. If you do not own a power washer, they can be rented at most home repair and construction stores. Use a cleaner or additive only if you find mold and stains.
Allow at least 24 hours for the exterior to dry thoroughly before beginning the next step, which requires a paint scraper and patience. Methodically move around the entire outside of the house scraping paint chips and flakes. These become quite obvious if they are painted over and not removed beforehand.
Caulking is the next step. Here too, patience and attention to detail are necessary. The most expedient way to carry out this task is to fill cracks with caulk until it seeps beyond the edge, then wipe away the excess with a damp rag.
If you have been cataloging areas of the exterior that need repairs, this is the time to complete them. Rotted boards or other problems that are too difficult to handle on your own require calling in a professional, such as a painting contractor, to complete the job.
Next, prime the house with a quality primer. It seals the wood from the elements and will help make your paint job last longer.

Now it’s time to paint! Or you could hire the painting professionals at University Painters. We have been in the business since 1986 and we’ll treat your home as if it is our own! Contact us at 800-390-4848 for more information.

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Regular Post

Written by Colleen Kalil

30 August 2018

Professional Paint Companies Offer More than Just Painting

exterior painters, painting job More and more people are joining the DIY revolution sweeping the nation. While that is all well and good, in general there are times when it is better to rely on experienced professionals in a field. While trying to decide which painting route is best for you, here are some reasons that it may be better to choose a professional paint company to redo the exterior of your home instead of attempting to tackle the job yourself.

Professional paint companies are not just familiar with painting but know about home structures as well. A professional painter will look over your home and notify you if there are any defects that may need to be repaired prior to painting. Even little things can become big problems over time and slapping paint over them does not make it disappear. Instead it may exacerbate the issue.

Professional painters are more attuned to approaching the job with greater safety. This is what they do for a living. They have a better understanding of ladder placement, balance and movement. They possess the required tools and accessories that would be an additional cost to the homeowner if they were to undertake painting the house themselves. If you choose to work with a painting company, ask for their service records and recommendations. Also find out what type of insurance and certifications they hold.

The most well-intentioned homeowner is usually adding ‘paint the house’ to their list of responsibilities. They probably work a full week and have decided to be a weekend warrior – going after the house painting project with verve. But, most homeowners have never painted an entire house and it usually doesn’t take long to realize it is a major commitment. Professional painters are trained to pace themselves on the job and complete it within a timely manner. No one wants paint tools and paraphernalia laying around the garage and home for weeks.

Professional painters also make it their business to stay abreast of the latest information on colors and/or patterns that are being embraced by designers. This knowledge can be invaluable when making decisions about how you want the exterior of your home to present.

The professionals at University Painters offer the previously mentioned advantages and much more to homeowners in search of a company to make their home exterior dreams come true. We look forward to working with you!

Regular Post

Written by Colleen Kalil

26 July 2018

Tips on Hiring a Professional Painting Company

house painters, painting services Everyone wants their home to look beautiful. Landscaping is important but the number one item on a homeowner’s list is the exterior presentation. This begins with an elegant façade. While many homeowners believe that painting is a simple job, there are many things that must be taken into consideration. Painting the outside of a home is also very time consuming. Ultimately, the best option is usually to engage the services of a professional painting company. But once that decision is made, there are a number of questions you should ask a prospective business before hiring them.

Perhaps the most important question to ask your potential painters is whether or not they are insured. Today’s painting companies should hold two types of policies – workmen’s compensation and business liability. Ask to see the policies to ensure they are up to date. The last thing you want is a painter getting hurt on the job at your house!

Determine if the job will be subcontracted out once it is offered. Subcontracting can be risky for the homeowner. Contractors choose this option because it costs them less but it can result in shoddy workmanship.
Determine the quality of paint that will be used and have this noted in the painting contract
Find out if the contractor you speak with will be overseeing the job. Often a company will secure a painting job and then make themselves scarce until the bill is presented. You want to know who will be overseeing this work.
Ask the paint company representative about their experience. How many jobs have they done? Do they have references? Are there any homes in the area they have painted that you could drive by and see? If the company is hesitant to provide this information, then they are probably not the right ones for the job.
Request a list of organizations the company may be associated with, such as the Better Business Bureau or other trade associations. The more associations, the better as it helps to ensure their reputation.

Your home is likely your most valuable investment. Cutting corners on upkeep often costs you more in the end. The professionals at University Paint will be happy to discuss our services with you. We are confident you will find us second to none!!

Design, Maintenance, Paint Colors

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Regular Post

Written by Colleen Kalil

4 March 2018

5 Colors You Should Never Paint Your Walls

Painting your home can be an overwhelming task and can feel like a chore at times. There are so many colors, combinations, and finishes to choose from. You sometimes wonder if you should go the easy route and paint it all white. You probably shouldn’t if you plan to resell your home down the road.

Painting your home may not be easy to do, but it’s one of the easiest ways to update the look of your residence. If you want to add a new coat of paint but will be listing your home soon, here are some shades you need to avoid.

Yellow

Never paint your kitchen yellow, no matter how warm the color makes you feel. Homes that had soft yellow or marigold kitchens sold for $820 less than other homes, according to Zillow. Yellow is a tricky and risky color to pull off when it comes to your home’s interior. While buttery yellow can look pleasing to the eyes, bright yellow can cause headaches and anxiety.

Dark Brown, Eggplant, or Any Dark Color

Dark brown is also not a hit with Zillow’s study. Bedrooms that had dark brown walls sold for $236 less than other homes. Colors like dark brown, eggplant, olive green, and green-brown make homes feel small, cramped, and dark. While buyers have the option to repaint their homes, they can’t see past these ugly shades.

Terracotta

Terracotta may look like another cheerful color, but even a muted terracotta can decrease the value of your home. Buyers aren’t crazy about bright orange walls since it’s one of the least-liked colors in the world. They also didn’t like seeing brick red and copper dining rooms and kitchens.

Gray-Blue or Slate Gray

While blue was one of the most-liked colors in 2017, buyers weren’t crazy about rooms with gray-blue walls. They didn’t take kindly to living rooms that featured muted silver, pastel gray, light blue, periwinkle, or slate gray walls. Gray may be a trendy color in fashion and interior design, but that doesn’t mean it’s likable. Paint your home’s dining room or living room gray or slate, and you could lose $1,112 when you sell it.

White, Off-White, or Eggshell

White bathrooms may seem simple and minimalist in design, but buyers disagree. A coat of this generic color could set your home’s selling price back by over $4,000, according to Zillow. Some people prefer off-white or eggshell because it makes a smaller room look brighter and bigger. Buyers, on the other, thinks it makes a room look “dead” and “flat,” especially if the room lacks in natural light.

Considering painting the interior of your home? Need to freshen up your space? Contact University Painters today for a free estimate and more information on our interior painting services.

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Regular Post

Written by Colleen Kalil

28 February 2018

Why Hire A Professional For A Painting Job

Some people think that painting a house does not necessitate hiring a professional. While it is possible to paint your house on your own, entrusting this job to a professional has many benefits that can save you time and money.

Quality Work

House painting service providers like University Painters can provide you with experienced painters who are trained in their job and have many years of experience working in the industry. This translates to a painting project that will be of the highest quality. You are ensured that each stroke from their brush can boost the beauty and appeal of your house.

Painting Job Gets Done On Time

Experienced painters are very fast and are able to finish their jobs on time. This means that you do not have to wait long before your house looks fresh again with its new coat of paint. This is particularly beneficial if you need to have your house painted quickly.

No Stress

Hiring professional painters can save you from stress, as they are trained to handle all situations that inexperienced do-it-yourselfers may not expect to happen. You won’t have to worry about the small details if you hire a painting service contractor.

Reduced Maintenance

Painting jobs that are done by a quality house painting contractor tend to last a long time, which means that your maintenance costs are reduced. This can help save money and time.

Warranties

Most professional painting service providers give you a warranty when they paint your house. The warranty lasts for several years, during which time the contractor will paint your house again if the paint wears poorly or there are any related problems that the painter is responsible for.

Free Estimate

Before hiring a painting contractor, the service provider must give you a free estimate that will itemize the costs that you may expect to incur. In some instances, contractors can help you cut corners but still allow you to get the results that you want.

Fair Price

Quality painting done by a professional often comes at a fair price so you do not have to worry about compromising your budget.

University Painters has been providing painting services to homes and commercial buildings for over three decades. Contact us now to get a free estimate of a painting job

Regular Post

Written by Colleen Kalil

26 February 2018

Tips For Perfect Exterior Paint Jobs

The first thing that guests notice when they arrive at your house is the appearance of your home. They may notice if the structure is leaning or if the yard is unkempt. One thing that most people will notice, however, is the paint job. They can easily see the color of your house and notice if the paint has chipped. People can also tell whether or not the paint job was handled by a professional. These are some of the reasons why homeowners should take the exterior paint job on their home seriously. Here are some tips that can guarantee perfect exterior paint jobs:

Clean And Prepare The Surface

Paint will not adhere well to dirty surfaces so all walls and surfaces must be cleaned before coating them with paint. To ensure that the new paint job will last long, give your house a good power wash prior to the arrival of the painting contractor.

Choose A Neutral Color

Most professional exterior painters recommend that you choose neutral colors for your home. Neutral colors are easy on the eyes and if you’re planning to put your house up for sale or rent it out, a neutral color makes it less likely that buyers and renters will complain about your color choice.

Don’t Forget To Paint The Trims And Doors

Do not forget to include the trims and doors in your home’s paint makeover. If you are hiring a professional painter, ask if painting the trims and doors is included in their painting service.

Hire A Professional Painter

You can paint your exterior yourself but hiring a professional painter gives you a hassle-free guarantee that your home will look its best once the job is done. Professionals know the best colors to use and already have the tools required for the job.

Be selective when it comes to hiring a painting contractor. Remember that you always get what you pay for. Hiring the cheapest painting contractor in town may initially save you money, but a bad painting job can end up costing more in the long run when hiring another contractor to fix the job.

Do a background check of the painting companies you consider for the job. The best way to do this is to ask for feedback from friends and family members who have hired them in the past. You can also ask the company for references you can contact.

University Painters has been providing professional painting services for more than three decades. Our experience and reputation in the industry can guarantee the quality of services we provide. Contact us now to get a free estimate.

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Regular Post

Written by Colleen Kalil

22 February 2018

Signs That Tell You It Is Time To Repaint Your Home

Painting your house goes beyond aesthetics. A good painting job can protect your home from outdoor elements, as well as preserve its value, but how do you know that your house needs a new coat of paint? Here are four signs that can tell you it is time to repaint your home:

Fading Color

A fading paint color, because of prolonged exposure to elements such as water and sunlight, indicates your house needs repainting. The loss of paint color does not only affect the paint pigments but also the molecular structure of the coatings. This means that when exterior surfaces start to look dull and washed out, the paint film is already deteriorating.

Colors fade progressively, so it may be difficult to identify how much fading has occurred. One way of determining the degree of fading is to compare the existing paint film against the original sample or leftover paint. Houses that use bold and darker shades tend to fade more quickly than those painted with light colors.

Chalky Residues

Color fading is sometimes caused by chalky residue. Excessive chalking can erode the paint film until it can no longer provide an effective barrier against harmful elements. If you find any chalky residue on the surface of your wall, consider it a sign that it is time to call a painting contractor to repaint your home.

Cracking And Peeling Paint

Areas where the paint has cracked or peeled off will continue to deteriorate if the problem is not addressed immediately. This results in the surface being exposed to potentially damaging water, moisture and heat.

Paint film that is flaking off can likewise no longer protect the structural elements of your home, resulting in the bare wood being exposed to wood-destroying fungi that can jeopardize the structure of your home.

Mold and Water Stains

Mold, mildew and water stains are not just unsightly. They are also symptoms of bigger issues and pose potential health hazards. You need to use the right chemicals to get rid of the mildew and mold. Painting over areas with mold spores will only make the problem worse. A professional painter will know how to address this issue. Make sure to contact an expert if your walls have unsightly molds.

University Painters can help you with home repainting. Contact us today to learn more about our services.

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Regular Post

Written by Colleen Kalil

19 February 2018

Preparing Your Home For An Exterior Paint Job

Nearly half of the painting process for painting the exterior of your home is preparation, so make sure to follow these steps to guarantee that the exterior paint will look great and last.

Wash Your Home’s Exterior

Wash your house’s exterior from top to bottom prior to having it painted. A thoroughly washed surface can maximize the adhesion of the new paint to the exterior surfaces. Consider renting a power pressure washer, which can save you hours of time and effort you would otherwise spend with hand washing. You can wash your exterior with regular tap water; use clean additives only when there is mold and heavy stains. Allow your home to dry for at least one day prior to having it painted.

Make Repairs

Paint isn’t the solution to damaged or rotten surfaces of your home. It will only cover the unsightly marks. Repair any damaged areas of your home first prior to painting it. You may do this on your own but there are instances when you have to seek help from a carpenter or a handyman. Get professional help when the job calls for replacement or repairs of crucial parts of your house, such as stairs or overhangs.

Trim Nearby Plants And Trees

Be sure to trim the trees, plants and bushes close to your home before getting your exterior painted. This will provide enough space to work outside around the house without the painters having to brush off branches and thorns that can potentially injure them. Trimming plants that are in close contact to your home can also prevent foliage from hitting the wet paint once applied.

Scrape Away Flaking Paint

After washing your home’s exterior, you need to scrap and sand away any loose paint. Taking off this old flaking paint may involve a lot of work but this is a crucial step. The condition of the surface that needs to be painted will determine the success of the project.

Houses built before 1978 may also have lead paint, so scraping and sanding the exteriors of these homes need to be done with care.

Prepping your home prior to a painting job will require a lot of work. Fortunately, these tasks can be included in your painting project when you hire a professional. This can help you save a great deal of time, effort and money. Contact us here at University Painters for professional painting services.

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