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Exterior Painters,paint,painting company
Regular Post
Written by Colleen Kalil

Prepping Your House for that New Exterior Paint Job

Exterior Painters,paint,painting companyYou’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.

  1. Trim back shrubbery, trees and other landscaping so they do not become part of the paint job.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

Creative, Maintenance, Paint Colors
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Exterior Painting, Painters, Painting Job
Regular Post
Written by Colleen Kalil

Professional Paint Companies Offer More than Just Painting

exterior painters, painting jobMore 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!

Design, Maintenance, Paint Colors
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commercial painting services
Regular Post
Written by Colleen Kalil

Painting Services Not Just for the Home

commercial painting servicesWhile there are millions of homes in the United States for quality, professional painting companies to stay busy, there are as many businesses that can also use the services of professional painters. In other words, the large number of new business facades or existing, established businesses can provide an entirely new business stream for professional paint companies.

If you are a business owner in need of an updated look to your store front, the following advice is relevant to securing the services of a commercial paint company to meet your needs.

Research, research, research. The internet is a marvelous tool for finding out what paint companies work in commercial real estate. Take the time to find and read reviews by businesses that have already used their services.

Make tentative decisions about what painting you would like to have done. However, remember you are looking to hire a company that understands your needs from a professional painting perspective. The experience should be collaborative. Do not be averse to hearing their ideas about how to modernize your business’s façade.

Take the time to meet with your top 3 prospects. Have an idea of what you are interested in having done, then allow their input. Take notes and ask for references, even if there are positive reviews on the internet, after all, sometimes online reviews are less than credible.

Consider the businesses around you. Are you looking to blend in or stand out? Is there a retail or office theme? Are there contractual requirements that will limit your paint options? This should be determined prior to undertaking the painting process. It is your responsibility as a business owner to know the limitations of changes to the storefront you are permitted to perform.

And speaking of contracts, be sure you have one in place that outlines the exact parameters of the painting job that you hire out. Check into the company’s insurance and experience, the timeframe for completion, and responsibility for supplying materials.

There is a lot to consider when pursuing the update of a business store front. We have provided you with a skeletal checklist to work from. If you would like a more complete explanation, the professionals at University Painters are here to work with you! We look forward to hearing from you!

Design, Maintenance, Paint Colors
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paint, color,house painters
Regular Post
Written by Colleen Kalil

One Brush Is Never Enough

paint, color,house paintersPaint brushes come in a variety of sizes, bristle and handle types. Think all brushes are pretty much the same? Think again. A good brush holds more paint than a cheaper one and will make application easier and faster.

Brush Bristles

There are basically three types of brushes: natural-brushes, polyester brushes, and nylon/polyester brushes. Each brush performs differently depending on the type of paint it’s used with.

Natural-bristle

These brushes are made with animal hair and are best used with oil-based paints, varnishes, and other oil-based finishes. The natural splitting on the tips of these brushes are designed to hold more paint and create a smooth finish.

Polyester bristle

It’s best to use polyester bristle brushes with latex paints, but they hold their shape well when used with any paint and produce a smooth, even finish.

Nylon/polyester blend bristles

The mixture of bristles makes these brushes easy to clean and flexible enough to work with any type of latex paint. Nylon/polyester brushes are durable and keep their shape after continued use. If cared for properly, these brushes can last for years.

Size Does Matter

Choose the brush size depending on what you’ll be painting. A general rule for size is one to two inches for windows and other trim; three inches for gloss paints on doors and cabinets; four inches for large, flat areas. In addition to size, consider the shape of the brush. Slanted brushes create straight lines in corners and on edges, while square edge brushes are good for applying paint on large, flat areas.

Maintenance

Make your brushes last a long time by properly maintaining them after each use. Latex paint cleans up in warm water, while oil paint needs to be cleaned with a solvent. When cleaning a brush after using latex paint, hold the brush under warm running water, spread the bristles, and push them against the bottom of the sink to clean brush from tip to handle. For oil paint, swish the brush from side to side in the solvent to remove paint. Use a fresh container of solvent for the final rinse. Dry brushes flat to maintain the proper shape and never store brushes with the bristle end down.

The technicians at University Painters use the finest equipment to produce quality results all around your home. Call or go online to schedule an appointment today.

Creative, Maintenance, Paint Colors
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interior painting, home painters
Regular Post
Written by Colleen Kalil

Create a Kid-friendly Bedroom

interior painting, home paintersYour child’s bedroom is a great place for them to express their personality and create a space that’s all their own. Whether your child wants an unusual color combination or wants to design a whole new world, this is the place where the usual decorating rules don’t apply. However, to keep creativity from getting totally out of control, here are a few things you should consider.

A Child’s Point of View

Talk to your child about what they want and make them part of the decision-making process. You may have to reel in their imaginations from time-to-time, but take advantage of their creativity. Try to hone in on the aspects of the design which are the most important to your child. You can help them simplify an overly ambitious vision and still create the room of their dreams.

Today and Tomorrow

Design now with the future in mind. Your children will grow up faster than you think and their tastes will change frequently. Before you create a ceiling to floor jungle or fairyland, think about ways to decorate that will make it easy to transform the room as your child grows up. Pick a base color and layer on elements to create the theme your child wants. For example, if you’re trying to create an island theme, paint the walls a shade of blue or green which will transition well when your child decides to leave their  island home.

Keep It Simple

Keep structural changes and architectural features to a minimum. If you want to add a treehouse to the island theme, think about a raised bed draped with fabric, instead of drilling into studs and building a real one. Make it easy to change the room’s style and minimize expensive repairs or redesigns. Curtains, rugs, lighting, and other accessories are inexpensive ways to change a room’s décor.

Plan and Budget

Have a plan that includes a budget. Make rough drawings of the room, list the materials you need, and estimate the cost. The time you spend planning will be worth it and will keep your project on track.

The experts at University Painters can help you achieve just the right look to make the little people in your home happy. Call us or go online to schedule a free consultation today.

Design, Maintenance, Paint Colors
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exterior painting, home painters
Regular Post
Written by Colleen Kalil

Choosing an Appropriate Color for the Exterior of Your Home

Home Painter , Painting ,Carpentry,Have you ever driven up and down the streets of your city or town and noticed the occasional ‘sore-thumb’ sticking out? By that I mean a home painted bright pink, lavender, yellow or green in the midst of a perfect blend of homes that are stately without being too loud? There always seem to be mavericks out there that use the exterior of their homes to make a statement for them. If this is not your intent then perhaps you will appreciate the following advice on how best to choose an appropriate color for the exterior of your home.

Decide well in advance of the best painting season that this is the year you intend to have your home painted. (Many people will insist they can undertake the project themselves, and often do, but it should be acknowledged that house painting is a sophisticated and tedious project that requires time, patience and skill.)

Do your research. Investigate information on the pros and cons of various paints, when and under what conditions it is best to apply, and any other details that will be necessary to see this job through.

Look at your home’s exterior. Is it a combination of materials such as stone or brick and siding? Do the colors all blend together seamlessly and without contrast? Would you prefer greater contrast? Look at homes similar to your own that project contrast and a blended, more muted presentation.

Still another option is to go ‘monochromatic’ with contrasting trim. Some of the most common colors fall in the white or cream palette but can also be as bold as blue or charcoal with a creamy trim all around.

Many choose to go with a shade of all-white exterior. This gives a clean and eye-catching look. This can be especially attractive with contrasting shutters or trim in nearly any color.

While mulling over your decision for a choice of an exterior presentation, consider how a change in landscaping might also enhance the final outcome.

Who knew that so much thought and reflection went into choosing a color for your home’s exterior? Frankly, the professionals at University Painters, Inc. have been addressing these types of questions for years for our customers. We are experts in the field of home painting and would be happy to share our expertise with you! Please feel free to contact us with questions or an estimate.

Design, Maintenance, Paint Colors
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paints, home painters
Regular Post
Written by Colleen Kalil

Choosing A Paint Palette For Open Floor Plans

paints, home paintersOpen concept floor plans continue to be a favorite among homebuyers. The flow from room to room creates a large, inviting space for friends and family to gather, and without walls separating rooms, the area feels larger and more spacious. However, the large space can present decorating challenges. How do you create a unified color scheme? Use too many colors and the space will feel chaotic and be visibly unappealing. Use too few colors and it may be boring.

One option is to create a palette using three to five colors. Five colors may sound like a lot, but the key is how each color is used throughout the space. Choose one neutral color: white, off-white, or eggshell are good choices. Next, select one or two other light colors, and finally, select one or two accent colors. Keep your choices within color families to create a sophisticated, professional appearance. Whichever colors you choose, be consistent when applying them to your rooms.

Use your neutral color as a base and apply to the majority of the space. The neutral color provides a blank canvas where you can add different accents, textures, and materials. Add interest to different areas of the space with an accent wall. Don’t be afraid to be bold. Remember, dark colors make objects recede, light colors make objects look bigger. Add color to the inside of a built-in bookcase, the wall over a fireplace, or an interesting architectural detail.

A three color palette is a simpler plan. Use one color for the walls, the second for the trim, and the third for the ceiling. Again, make sure colors coordinate to create a refined interior.

Tone-on-tone or monochromatic palettes offer more variety than you might think. Use different tones of the same color, either in one room or as a smooth transition between rooms. The different tones don’t have to come just from paint. Add wallpaper, stenciled designs, fabric, glass tile, etc. to create interest and texture.

Don’t forget that textiles and furniture are part of creating a cohesive space. If you’re a fan of hardwood floors, select a neutral that works well with your color palette and furniture style. Layer area rugs, architectural details, and artwork to create depth and add interest to your space.

University Painters expert technicians can help you develop the right color palette to create the mood that’s right for your home. Call us today for more information and to set up a free consultation.

Design, Maintenance, Paint Colors
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interior painting,House Painting Pressure Washing
Regular Post
Written by Colleen Kalil

Repairing and Repainting After Water Damage

interior painting,House Painting Pressure WashingIf you’re a homeowner, chances are you’ll have to deal with water damage at some point in the life of your home. The causes of water damage vary from the effects of bad weather to frozen pipes to antiquated plumbing. Regardless of the cause, it’s important to do a thorough job of repairing the damage to prevent additional problems in the future.

Consider The Source

Before any repair work can be started, find the source of the water damage. Make sure the repairs are made properly and quickly. Wet materials can begin to develop mold and mildew in as little as 24 hours.

Ceiling Damage

Ceiling damage can cause paint to peel and bubbles to form. Once the source of the water is repaired, examine the damaged area. Remove any peeling paint or bubbles. If the drywall is sagging, let it dry completely. Check to make sure it is still attached to the beams and use drywall screws to restore it to the correct position.

Clean any visible mold or mildew from the damaged area. Use filler or putty to create a flat surface wherever peeling paint or bubbling was removed, then sand it smooth. Next, apply a stain blocking primer to any area that is discolored and let it dry completely. If you don’t apply stain block, the original stain will bleed through the new paint. It’s best to repaint the entire ceiling to prevent patches of different colored paint.

Wall Damage

If the wallboard doesn’t need to be replaced, check to make sure it’s still attached to the studs. Scrape off any peeling paint or drywall putty then clean the surface. If there is any mold or mildew, use bleach and water or a solution specifically designed to combat mildew. Let the area dry completely, then apply a fresh coat of paint. If the existing paint has faded, you may need to repaint the entire wall or room to maintain consistent color.

Repairing water damage can be a time consuming process. Save yourself the aggravation and leave it to the professionals at University Painters. Call or go online to schedule a free consultation today.

Maintenance, Paint Colors
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painting services,house painters, interior painting
Regular Post
Written by Colleen Kalil

What to do with Leftover Paint

painting services,house painters, interior paintingLeftovers! Nobody likes them. Not in your fridge and not in your garage. It seems no matter how well you plan a project you are left with an inch of paint in the bottom of the paint can and your first inclination is to tuck the lid back on and tuck the can in some lost corner of the carport.

You know you shouldn’t just toss it in the garbage or pour it down the sink (or should you – read on to find out what the experts say). There are proper ways to dispose of paint. Here are some suggestions that should make the task a little more ‘palatable’.

  •          Pour the leftover paint into a smaller container such as a food or beauty dispenser that is empty and washed out. This will make the paint remains more manageable than collecting piles of cans of nearly empty paint. To ensure it stays fresh, cover the lid with plastic wrap and tighten the lid so no air can get in. If it’s possible, store the container upside down which will further prevent exposure to air. Be sure and label the container with the color, the date it was purchased, and its original use.
  •         If you have leftover paint that is not oil-based, then it is usually permissible to throw it away with your regular garbage. Home improvement retailers suggest you leave the paint opened to the air, so it will dry in the can. Then pour kitty litter in to absorb any leftover paint, replace the lid tightly, and include it in the week’s refuse.
  •        If you are not permitted by city ordinance to dispose of paint through normal trash collections, then search your local listings for professional companies that will either pick up the paint or provide drop-off points for you to deliver it. Many cities consider paint to be a hazardous waste and do not want it seeping into the water table. Therefore, special processes are in place to dispose of it in the least environmentally hazardous way possible.
  •         Consider donating your leftover paint. Organizations such as Habitat for Humanity are happy to take that paint off your hands. In fact, they have begun to partner with municipalities to recycle paint and sell it!

If you are looking for painting professionals – the experts at University Paint invite you to contact us today. We will be happy to speak with you!

Design, Maintenance, Paint Colors
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house painters, painting services
Regular Post
Written by Colleen Kalil

Tips on Hiring a Professional Painting Company

house painters, painting servicesEveryone 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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