Frequently Asked Questions
CertaPro Painters® of Chula Vista
Paint and Preparation
Which is better – oil paint or latex paint?
Oil paint was once considered superior, but due to regulations, its chemicals have been phased out. Advances in 100% acrylic resin latex paints have made them highly durable and the preferred choice for residential painting.
What types of preparation need to be done to my house?
Preparation varies by project and is tailored to each customer’s vision. Common preparations include washing to ensure a clean, dry, and firm base for paint adherence; scraping to remove loose and peeling paint to a firm edge; and sanding, which focuses on high-visibility areas for aesthetic purposes. Wooden windows may need old, crumbling putty replaced with fresh putty. Divots and dings in wood trim are filled with putty or auto body filler, then sanded smooth. Caulking and sealing gaps, cracks, and crevices in siding, around doors, and windows is also common, though most siding seams should remain open to allow the house to breathe.
Does all the old paint on my house need to be removed before it can be repainted?
No, only loose, peeling, or degraded paint needs to be removed. If specific areas require complete stripping, discuss this with your estimator as it can be an additional, though costly, option.
What is a ‘paint system’ and which is appropriate for my project?
A paint system is a combination of sealers, primers, and paints designed to work together on different substrates. Your proposal will specify the appropriate system for your project.
What is the purpose of primer and when is it needed?
Primers prepare substrates for top coats, sealing out moisture, resisting stain bleeding, and locking down chalky surfaces. Spot priming is usually sufficient unless a drastic color change is planned, which might require a tinted prime coat.
How many coats of paint are appropriate for my project?
Durability depends more on preparation than the number of coats. New, raw surfaces usually need a full prime coat. Dramatic color changes may require a prime coat or an additional finish coat. A single coat may suffice if you’re not changing color and the existing paint is in good condition, but discuss with your estimator.
What is elastomeric paint?
Elastomeric paint is designed for stucco and masonry surfaces with water intrusion issues. It often requires a special primer and two finish coats to create a thick, elastic film that bridges cracks. It is more expensive due to a lower spread rate and application difficulty.
How long does it take the new paint to dry?
Most latex paints set in 30-120 minutes but can take up to 30 days to fully cure. Regularly open and close newly painted windows and doors during this period to prevent sticking.
How long should the new paint job last?
The longevity of a paint job is largely influenced by preparation quality, substrate condition, and environmental exposure. Most often, it’s the older bottom coats that fail first, causing top coats to peel and crack.
Is there anything I can do to increase the longevity of my new paint job?
Three tips: use high-quality materials, power wash your home every few years, and ensure proper preparation is specified for your project.
Will I save money if I buy the materials?
Not likely. We receive better discounts from major paint manufacturers than most individuals. Let us procure the best materials at the lowest prices for you.
Is there a difference between hand-brushed and sprayed paint?
Both methods are acceptable if applied at the proper spread rate by skilled applicators. Spraying provides a smoother appearance with less mildew potential. Some substrates may require a specific method, such as spray with back-roll/back-brush.
What does VOC mean?
VOC stands for “volatile organic compound,” chemicals released during paint drying. They can be toxic and odorous, so regulations limit their use in paints. Examples include paint thinner, alcohol, and acetone.
Are more expensive paints better?
Generally, yes. They contain more durable pigments and resins, requiring fewer coats. However, the most expensive paints might not be suitable for all situations. For instance, Sherwin Williams Duration is durable but may pull off older layers. Our expertise ensures the right paint is used for your project.
The Process and Our People
I have just met with the estimator – now what?
The estimator will discuss how the proposal will be delivered to you. If you did not receive copies at the appointment, we can email the proposal as an Adobe Acrobat (.PDF) attachment, mail two copies, fax it, or schedule a meeting to go over it in person.
I have reviewed the proposal and would like to proceed – what do I do next?
Call or email your estimator to discuss the next steps. This usually involves signing the proposal, discussing your color selection, and fitting your project into the production schedule.
What experience and background do the foremen and painters have?
Our foremen have at least 7 years of painting experience. Our painters have between 2 and 10 years of experience, and we also have apprentices learning the trade under the direction of our foremen. Our workers are career painters; we do not use casual labor. We take great care to attract, train, reward, and retain experienced, professional painters, resulting in low turnover.
How do I address any concerns I may have throughout the project?
Most concerns can be addressed by the foreman, who is trained to handle your questions and provide updates on the progress. If needed, the estimator is also available to help with any issues.
How long will the project take?
We stay on your project until it is finished, minimizing disruption to your routine. Weather may affect exterior projects, but your estimator will give you a good idea of the timeline.
I plan on being out of town during part or all of the project – is this okay?
We can work around your schedule. If you plan to be absent, please notify us early. If we need to remove equipment and return later, a small fee will apply for the additional setup.
What about inclement weather?
In light rain or fog, we can perform tasks like power washing and scraping, but we cannot apply sealants, primer, or paint. We wait for the house to dry properly to ensure a quality finish.
How is payment handled?
For most residential projects, no payment is required until completion. The balance is due in full once the project is finished. We prefer cash or check but accept credit cards (MasterCard and VISA) with a 3% service fee.
Does the crew expect a tip at the end of the job?
Our crews are compensated fairly and do not expect tips. However, if you are delighted with their work, you may tip them, but it is not required.
I’m concerned about water leaks into the house. Will painting solve these issues?
Water intrusion can be due to various reasons, such as poor gutter drainage, damaged flashing, or rotted siding. Caulking and sealing during painting often solve leaks, but if the issue is structural (e.g., roof damage), painting alone may not resolve it.
What if dry rot or other carpentry issues are discovered during the painting process?
We perform basic carpentry repairs, such as replacing rotten trim or siding. More complex repairs requiring advanced skills, like those involving roofing or plumbing, are not included. Carpentry repairs are typically not in the initial proposal as their extent is often unclear until prep work begins. We will provide a fixed price and description for any necessary repairs, which must be approved by the client before work is done.
Insurance and Liability
A contractor comes to paint my house and his employee falls off a ladder and gets hurt. Who pays for his injuries?
Contractors such as builders, painters, or other tradespeople are required by law to provide worker’s compensation insurance. Any injury would be covered under that policy. If the contractor does not have coverage or has discontinued their policy to save on premiums, you would be liable for the worker’s injuries or disabilities that occur on your property. Therefore, it is crucial to only hire contractors with active worker’s compensation policies.
I was told by a contractor that he would have to charge a lot more if he purchased worker’s compensation. He assured me that my homeowner’s insurance policy would cover me in the event of an accident. Is this true?
Absolutely not! Your homeowner’s insurance is unlikely to offer any coverage in this event and may specifically exclude it. Contact your insurance agent for more information.
I was told by a contractor that he is not required to carry worker’s compensation insurance because he only has one employee. Is this true?
This may be true in some cases. However, even if not required, you should not allow him to work on your property without it. You could be liable for injuries that happen on your property unless you protect yourself by hiring adequately insured contractors.
How do I know for sure if a contractor carries worker’s compensation insurance?
Ask for a certificate of insurance and check with the carrier before work begins to ensure the policy is still in force.
Does CertaPro Painters carry worker’s compensation and general liability insurance policies?
Yes, and at your request, we can provide insurance certificates that name you as the certificate holder.
Access, Color Selection, and Lead
How is the crew going to reach the difficult areas of my project?
All of our workers are trained in the safe and proper use of extension ladders. If necessary, we also use scaffolding, lifts, and booms.
How is interior access to my home handled?
This depends on your comfort level. Some customers provide a garage door opener or front door key, allowing us to come and go as needed. Others prefer to be present during the work. Let us know your preferences, and we will accommodate them.
Is there lead paint on my house, and if so, how is it handled?
Lead paint was banned for residential use in 1978. If your home was built before then, it might contain lead paint. We assume pre-1978 homes contain lead paint and take necessary precautions, or we can test for lead and proceed accordingly. Testing can be expensive and confirming the presence of lead requires disclosure upon sale of the property, potentially affecting its value. Thus, we typically assume lead is present and follow safety protocols.
I’m not sure what colors I want to use. What help can CertaPro Painters give me?
We offer several options to help with color selection. We provide many three- and four-color palettes designed by paint vendors, offer color matching from another home in your neighborhood, and can recommend a color consultant.
What if I am already working with a color consultant?
CertaPro Painters often works with color consultants and designers hired by our customers. Simply provide us with the color palette and placement information, and we will follow it. If we have questions, we will consult with you first, and then the consultant if necessary.
What if I am not happy with the colors once they are applied to the building?
You must confirm your color selection before we order paint. If you wish to change colors after confirmation, additional charges for paint and labor may apply.
Are there extra charges if I have more colors on my house?
Pricing is based on the amount of detail desired, not necessarily the number of colors. Your estimator will discuss the detail level you want, include it in the proposal, and price the work accordingly.
Will CertaPro Painters leave me with touchup paint?
We will happily leave you with clearly labeled paint for future touchups.
