Visual Arts | University Painters

Regular Post

Written by Colleen Kalil

26 August 2018

Painting Services Not Just for the Home

commercial painting services While 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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Regular Post

Written by Colleen Kalil

23 August 2018

One Brush Is Never Enough

paint, color,house painters Paint 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.

Regular Post

Written by Colleen Kalil

7 August 2018

Choosing A Paint Palette For Open Floor Plans

paints, home painters Open 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.

Regular Post

Written by Colleen Kalil

2 August 2018

Repairing and Repainting After Water Damage

interior painting,House Painting Pressure Washing If 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.

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Regular Post

Written by Colleen Kalil

29 July 2018

What to do with Leftover Paint

painting services,house painters, interior painting Leftovers! 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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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!!

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Regular Post

Written by Colleen Kalil

21 July 2018

Summer Time Is Painting Time

exterior painting, home painters Summer can be a great time to complete home improvement projects, especially if they’re outdoor projects. If you’re thinking about painting your home’s exterior, consider the following tips to get the best results.

1. Prepare. For the best results, take the time to prepare the painting surface. It should take as much time to prepare as it does to paint. Wash off dirt or mud, scrape or sand any peeling paint, treat areas that have mold or mildew, repair any gouges, cracks, or other damage. The extra effort will be worth the time spent.

2. Time of day. Spend as much time as possible painting in the morning before it gets hot. Evenings are good a time to paint as well, but even after the sun goes down, the exterior of your home retains heat.

3. Wind. If the weather forecast predicts breezy or windy conditions, postpone your painting. Blowing dirt and debris can stick to wet paint. If that happens, you’ll be back at square one sanding and scraping paint. The same goes for rain. Avoid painting either before or after a storm.

4. Sunlight. Don’t paint in direct sunlight. The sun can increase the temperature of your home’s exterior by 10 to 15 degrees. It may affect how well the paint adheres to the surface. Schedule painting time so you can be in the shade throughout the day. It’s some times referred to as “following the sun”. Take advantage of overcast days to do as much painting as possible.

5. Temperature. The optimal temperature for painting is around 75 to 80 degrees with less than 50% humidity. Avoid painting on the hottest days. If paint dries too fast, which means the water portion of the paint is evaporating too quickly, it can cause cracking or peeling. To slow the rate of evaporation, put ice in the bottom of your paint container, cover it with a plastic liner, and then pour in the paint.

For the best results any time of year, contact University Painters. We’re experts in our field and are prepared to tackle your painting project. Call us today for a free estimate.

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Regular Post

Written by Colleen Kalil

18 July 2018

Painting Concrete or Brick Surfaces

house painter, Interior Painters ,Exterior Painters Painting is a great way to change the look of any surface, whether it’s inside or outside. Almost anything can be painted, including concrete and brick. With the proper equipment and knowledge, you can add to your home’s value and curb appeal.

Concrete Slabs (such as garage floors)

Before you paint a concrete floor, make sure no moisture comes through the slab. Tape around the floor where it meets the wall and wait for a few days. If there’s moisture on the tape, it’s best not to paint it.

If moisture isn’t a problem, sweep out any dirt and debris and wash the floor with a non-residue cleaner. Remove any old, flaking paint and grease spots. Next, etch the floor’s surface with a muriatic acid solution. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and make sure you have good ventilation. Do not use it in a closed-in space.

Use a latex primer and paint specially made for concrete. Let the primer dry before applying the paint. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for both.

Brick

Before you paint brick, remember it’s a one-time decision. It is nearly impossible to remove paint from brick. Make sure it’s a step you want to take.

The best way to begin any painting project is with a clean surface. Use a wire brush to remove heavy dirt or debris and then wash with a solution of warm, soapy water. If you’re painting an entire house, you might be tempted to get out the power washer. That’s not a good idea; you’re likely to end up with gouges in the brick and you’ll damage the grout. Use a wire brush to spot clean and then use a regular hose to clean the area. You can get a foaming sprayer and then go over the surface again with plain water. Let the brick dry completely.

Use a quality latex primer as a first coat and let it dry completely. Next, apply latex paint for masonry using a long nap roller; use a brush to cover the grout. Don’t be in a hurry. Watch for dripping paint. Two coats are recommended for the best results.

University Painters can help you achieve the look you want for your home’s interior or exterior. Contact us today online at University Painters or call 800-390-4848.

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Regular Post

Written by Colleen Kalil

11 July 2018

Know Your Paint Properties

Summer is often the best time to rejuvenate your home. The process of revitalizing the look of your house usually begins with covering the outside with a fresh coat of paint. If you are a paint ‘neophyte’ and inclined to head to the hardware store to pick up your supplies, there is something you should know. There are two basic types of paint – indoor and outdoor and you don’t want to choose the wrong one for the job!

Interior and exterior paint are formulated to meet different expectations. Indoor paint is meant to take the assault of daily living – children and pets, sticky fingers and marks of all sorts. On the other hand, exterior paint is manufactured to withstand the elements including everything from sleet and snow to relentless sunshine and heat in the summer.

One of the main differences between interior and exterior paint is the resin with which it is manufactured. In the case of paint production, is it a highly viscous substance that binds the paint to the surface on which it is being applied. It allows exterior paint to resist chipping, peeling and fading. A stronger resin is used in the creation of indoor paint, so it is less inclined to show scuffs and smears.

Exterior paint goes through a process called ‘outgassing’ which means it lets the surfaces on which it is applied to ‘breathe’ and minute particles of moisture to escape. Interior paint does not need this type of outlet but in either case, with indoor and outdoor painting, be sure you have adequate ventilation.

If you are painting indoor surfaces, it is better to choose a glossy finish because they are easier to clean than a matte finish. When washing down a flat paint, it tends to smear, exacerbating fingerprints and scuff marks, while putting the homeowner in a position where they will need to repaint sooner to keep a clean, pristine look.

Painting is a much more sophisticated undertaking than many people realize. A lot of thought and pre-planning must go into the project before you begin. In other words, getting thunderstruck with the idea of painting your house inside and out should be followed with careful reflection before running to the paint store.

May we suggest hiring professionals as an alternative to taking on the task yourself? The paint experts at University Paints would be happy to meet with you at your convenience and discuss your paint project. We have been servicing this community for over a decade! Call us today.

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Regular Post

Written by Colleen Kalil

8 July 2018

How to Know it’s Time to Paint Your House!

exterior painting, House Painters Have you been pulling into the driveway lately and feeling that the house staring back at you seems a bit worn? Is it looking dull? Do the other homes in the neighborhood seem newer and more modern? Perhaps all that you really need is a fresh coat of paint to spruce up the place and make it feel new again – and the same is as true for the inside as outside! Putting a fresh coat of paint on the house or inside is like updating your wardrobe! Here are some sure-fire ways to know when it’s time to paint!

You know it’s time to paint when you see the paint cracking or bubbling. This could actually signal more significant problems underneath the paint such as dry rot or mold. Both of these are issues that will cause long-term and significant damage if they are not addressed.

Check the caulking on the windows outside (and inside). Dried and cracked caulking is also an indication you need to take a closer look at the condition of the home and spruce it up. Upkeep is often cheaper than letting things deteriorate so badly that they cause costly damage to the overall structure.

Is the color of the paint looking dingy? Faded? Perhaps one side of the house gets more sun than the other and that causes discoloration. Weather plays an important role in how the outside of your home holds up. Do a monthly or bimonthly walk around as a way to identify problems with the paint and/or structure.

Paint your home – just because. Because you have lived there for a few years and want a change. Because you found a color you like better and think it will give the home greater curb appeal (you want curb appeal even if you are not selling the home as it keeps its value elevated). Or because it hasn’t been painted in 7 years or more – the recommended amount of time between paint jobs.

While these are the main reasons for painting the exterior, you may decide to do it simply because you want a change. One sure way that can happen is by putting on a whole new color! Whatever your reason for choosing to paint, when the time comes we hope you will call the professionals at University Paint. We would be happy to provide a quote and provide the highest quality service. We look forward to speaking with you.

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