Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What residential services do you offer?
We offer many services besides standard painting, including but not limited to cabinet painting, garage floor epoxy coatings, carpentry services, drywall repair and installation, power washing, and wallpaper removal.

Do you have a project minimum?
Our project minimum for residential projects is $1,200 for first-time customers. There is no minimum if you are a previous customer.

How much does it cost to paint the exterior of a house in our area?
Pricing generally depends on several factors, including home size, number of colors involved, condition of substrate being painted, necessary prep/setup, and quality of paint selected.

In our residential service area in and around Lincoln Park, Hyde Park, & All of Cook County, our typical whole home exterior projects are on average $4,000 to $9,000. We believe in only using high-quality primer and paint products from Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore.

We offer free, detailed, no-obligation estimates and are happy to meet with you to discuss a project you have now or a future project. 

After my initial estimate, can my project cost change?
In rare circumstances, yes, but we will always discuss any changes with you and wait to receive your approval before moving forward.

Here are a few things that could result in a price change: 

• • Final Color Selection. Some colors will not cover your current surface with a standard 2 coats, and other colors require a primer coat to achieve the proper final color. 
  • Wallpaper removal (if not included in your proposal).
  • Additional drywall repairs or water damage not present at the initial estimate. 
  • Accent walls or multiple colors that were not discussed at the time of the estimate.
  • Carpentry services. Some exterior carpentry repairs can’t be identified at the time of the estimate and may require additional cost.

Do you offer payment plans or financing options?
Yes, we offer multiple options for financing (subject to 3rd party approval). We offer longer payment options through our vendor partner Acorn, which has links on our proposal for applying for short-term to long-term loans. 

What paint brands do you use?
We proudly use high-quality products from Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore paint companies. Both are trusted companies known for their rich color selection, durability, and long-term protection. 

Do you have eco-friendly paint options?
Yes, we offer low and zero-VOC paints for a healthier indoor environment. We would be happy to discuss which options will fit best for your needs at the time of your free estimate! 

What quality of paint do you use?
At CertaPro Painters® of Oak Park/Chicago Central, IL, we believe that when painting, you are not only beautifying the most important asset you have (your home), but also protecting it from life! We believe in only using premium, professional-grade materials. Some of our go-to products are the Duration and Emerald lines from Sherwin-Williams, two of the highest quality residential coatings available. These lines are available in both interior and exterior products!

Can you help me choose colors?
Absolutely! Our project consultants can offer you FREE color consultation guidance.

How should I prepare my home for interior painting?
Please remove small breakables, wall items, and small furniture from rooms that are being painted. Empty cabinets, bookshelves (that need to be moved), closets, or pantries that we will be painting.

How should I prepare my home for exterior painting? 

• • • Trim back any bushes, trees, or landscaping that may be touching areas that we will be painting. 
    • Remove décor from areas being painted
    • Secure all windows and doors for when power washing is occurring (if applicable)

What kind of standard prep work do you do?
The most important part of any paint job is the preparation.  There are various prep methods we use for our project, depending on the area of the home we are working in. Our standard prep includes- Ensuring whatever substrate is being painted is cleaned, scraping any peeling paint, lightly sanding substrates being painted as needed, caulking as needed, and priming substrates as needed. 

How long does a typical paint project take?
This is something that can vary depending on the size and scope of work. Our project consultants are happy to give you a more accurate timeline for your project at the time of the estimate. Some of our smaller projects can be completed in as little as one day. And our standard residential projects usually are completed between 3 and 6 working days. 

What is your cleanup process?
We cover and protect all areas that will not be painted. Some of our projects cause dust, which will require more cleanup after the project is completed. We clean up daily and perform a full final cleanup once your project is complete. Our goal is to leave your house clean and ready to enjoy. 

How many painters will be on my project?
Crew size depends on the scope of your project. We adjust our team sizes to meet your timeline without compromising quality. 

Who manages my project?
You will deal with our Residential Sales Manager to get your project scheduled and set up. During the painting, your project will have a dedicated and trained Job Site Supervisor who oversees the daily project stages and daily communication. When the project is completed, your Job Site Supervisor will complete the final walk-through with you to ensure your complete satisfaction. 

Can painters work while I am not home?
Yes, all of our painters are fully trained and insured professionals. Many homeowners are comfortable having us work independently so as not to miss any work to be missed. Our goal is to treat your home with respect and care at all times. 

Are you licensed and insured?
Yes, we carry general liability, workman’s compensation, and umbrella insurance policies. We also hold necessary licensing and bonding per your town’s requirements. 

Do you have a warranty?
Yes, all projects include a 2-year written warranty that is included at the bottom of every one of our proposals. 

How often should I paint my home?
A lot of factors go into this, such as weather and sun exposure for exteriors. We suggest establishing an exterior maintenance cycle for your home of painting every 5-7 years for your exterior siding and trim of your home.

For interiors, high-traffic areas may need to be painted more often. We suggest painting every 3-5 years for walls, trim, and doors. Ceilings are generally not as often due to not getting contacted much.

What are the signs that it’s time to repaint? 

• • • Fading or chalking paint
    • Peeling, cracking, or bubbling paint. 
    • Bare wood in certain areas
    • Discoloration or water stains indoors

Why should I choose CertaPro Painters of Oak Park/Chicago Central, IL?

We’re your locally owned and operated painting company. We proudly serve residents in Chicago, Oak Park, Beverly, and surrounding areas.