Frequently Asked Questions

Here you will find Frequently Asked Questions and Our Answers

How do I get an estimate for painting my home?

Most professional painting companies will offer you a free estimate – we can meet in-home or we can remotely gather the information that we need to prepare your quote. You can book an appointment with CertaPro Painters of Hamilton by calling us directly. You can also send us an email or go to our website and book an appointment on-line.

How much will it cost to paint my house?

Obviously the cost of painting varies based on the size and scope of the job, the quality of paint that is used and other factors such the amount of preparation (such as primer) that may be required. The best way to get a cost is to request an estimate from us – they are free, no-obligation and can be done in person or remotely.

How do I find a good house painter?

Here is a list of things to consider when hiring a professional house painter:
1. Call a few contractors for bids – and be home for the initial meeting with them. A house painter should take the time to assess the job. Even the most experienced painter will need more than just a quick walk around your home. Be sure to ask each painting contractor about the size of his crew and the members’ experience level.
2. State your expectations.  The number of coats a painter applies isn’t the only factor in determining the quality and price of the project. Preparation is also key. If you want a surface that’s free of unevenness from past paint jobs, tell the contractors and be prepared to pay extra. If you can live with some imperfections, agree on what level of prep is acceptable.
3. Get written estimates from each contractor. It should include details about scope (what is getting painted), the number of coats of primer and paint, the specific type of paint and materials that will be used as well as a detailed description of the prep work that will be done.
4. Check online reviews and references. A history of positive references is a good sign. You will likely see a small number of less-than-favourable reviews. You can’t please all the people all the time so it’s all about how the pro handles any issues.
5.Get a copy of the painter’s liability and WSIB clearance certificate. If they don’t have coverage, as the homeowner, you could be liable for any on-site accidents or injuries.
Look for a guarantee/warranty. The painter should promise to correct any chipping, peeling, or blistering that occurs within two years after the job is completed. If you are told the paint itself has a warranty, remember that doesn’t include labour.
6. Deposits. Don’t pay the whole bill – or even a significant portion of the bill – upfront. Deposits may be required but should be less than 50% of the total job cost. Hold back a portion of the payment until you have checked that the job has been completed to your satisfaction.

Paint, Primer and other products

What type of paint do you use?

During the estimating process, CertaPro will gather the information necessary to recommend the paint that is right for your job. We have accounts with various manufacturers (Benjamin Moore, Cloverdale, Dulux, and Sherwin Williams) to provide a full range of solutions for your project.

What is the purpose of primer and when it is needed?

Primer preps the painting surface to seals any stains and help the paint adhere. Primer is needed in some cases (but not all). Primer should be used on new work (new drywall, skim coating, bare wood, etc.), painting water-based paint over oil-based paint, sealing stains (from water damage, smoke, pen/marker, etc.), painting over wallpaper or just to prepare for a new colour (dark to light colour, preparing for certain whites, reds, yellow, orange, dark blue, etc). Your CertaPro estimator will advise you if primer may be required.

How many coats of paint are appropriate for my project?

Most jobs should be painted with two coats. One coat can be used to “freshen up” existing paint jobs where the same colour and sheen as the existing are being applied.

How long does it take the new paint to dry?

Different products take different times and are affected by temperatures and humidity levels. Many products are dry to touch within 1 – 2 hours. Your CertaPro estimator will be able to advise you on times for specific products to be “dry”, “return to service” and “fully cured”.

How long should the new paint job last?

The durability of paint jobs are affected by what is being painted (interior versus exterior), what type of wear and tear (cleaning, traffic, moisture, sun and other weather) that the paint will be exposed to and what surface is being painted.

Will I save money if I buy the materials?

CertaPro has outstanding relationships with the major paint manufacturers which in many cases means “national accounts” and enhanced contractor pricing that reflects our significant volume of paint purchases. In most cases, CertaPro can purchase the paint and materials cheaper than a homeowner. It is also important to remember that our years of experience make sure we buy the right paint for your job.

Is there a difference between applying paint with a brush and roller versus spraying?

Both options come with their own benefits and drawbacks, and which one is right for your project depends on several factors. Brushes and rollers are typically more precise so it is best for furnished home interiors – but this method can be more time consuming and may not be best for all surfaces (rough texture, lots of detail/crevices, etc.) Spraying can be quicker and may result in a better finish – but due to overspray, it requires more preparation (masking) and uses more paint. Speak to your CertaPro estimator about which option makes the most sense for your project.

What does VOC mean?

VOCs are volatile organic compounds or chemicals found in many building materials that give off gasses that can build up and harm people and the environment. When you smell that “new paint smell,” those are VOCs. Low-VOC paint means that the paint contains less than 50 grams per liter of volatile organic compounds. No-VOC or zero-VOC paint can still have some VOCs, but it must have less than 5 grams per liter.

How can I protect myself from paint fumes?

Choosing the lowest available VOC paint will make the fumes less and the ventilation as well. Open windows and doors, or use fans, while you are painting and for several hours after you reseal the paint cans. See below the link to our community post.
https://certapro.com/hamilton/community/dangers-of-sleeping-in-a-freshly-painted-room/

Are more expensive paints better?

An inexpensive paint might make sense in the short term, but higher-quality paint will go on smoother, look better, and last longer. Plus, you won’t need to use as much paint – also saving you labour from the additional coats. Speak to your CertaPro estimator about helping you pick the right quality of paint for your project.

Which is better – oil paint or water-based (“latex”) paint?

Waterbased paints (latex and acrylic) are the most common paints now. They are more environmentally friendly, lower odour/VOC, quicker drying and easier to clean up. Oil, or solvent-based, products can be more durable and may be your best option in some cases. Talk to your CertaPro estimator about what solution is best for you.

What is your typical preparation process for interior projects?

CertaPro will protect the area (drop sheets, cover furniture with new, clean plastic sheeting) and then begin to prepare the surfaces (filling holes or cracks, removing any loose paint, and scuff sanding where required for better adhesion; note – repairing raised drywall seams, smoothing old repairs or plaster walls and addressing walls that are otherwise not flat is not included).

Preparation

What is your typical preparation process for exterior projects?

CertaPro thoroughly prepares your exterior surfaces prior to painting. This may include washing the surfaces, removing mold/mildew, scraping loose or peeling paint, as well as filling any gaps with caulk/filler to prevent water intrusions.

What is your process for painting cabinetry and vanities?

Doors and drawer fronts will be removed and transported to our spray booth. Both sides of the doors and the drawer fronts will be sanded, primed and sprayed with at least two coats of paint (in a colour of your choice). While the doors and drawers are off-site, we paint the exterior surfaces of the mounted cabinetry (including gables, islands and other included components as applicable). Doors and drawers will be re-installed to their original location. The whole process is typically completed in a week (5 – 6 working days).

What is your policy for bad weather conditions? When will you not paint?

Painting (both interior and exterior) will be performed according to manufacturer’s instructions. Painting is affected by conditions such as temperature (too hot or too cold), high humidity and precipitation. Work may also be affected by wind, insects and other factors. CertaPro will communicate with you on factors affecting your project to ensure that work is performed safely in a manner that will provide your desired result.

Do I need to be home during the time of service?

Although some people choose to be home while we paint, you do not need to be on-site during the painting process. CertaPro will arrange access (let us in, provide a key, lock box codes, etc) and can communicate with you about how to lock up at the end of the day.

What will be cleaned up after the job is finished?

At the end of each work day, ladders are taken down and stored in a designated area along with all other tools and supplies. All debris will be swept up. In addition to cleaning, upon completion of your project, all tools, supplies & equipment will be removed from the property on a timely basis.

Colour Selection

Do you offer color consultation services?

Whether you want the interior or exterior painted, CertaPro can help you with colour selection. Not only can you get time with a color consultant (often free of charge), we can also assist with the use of a colour visualizer to virtually paint the interior and/or exterior of your home.

Are there extra charges if I have more colors on my house?

A typical job involves two or three colours. More colours can result in more paint, more supplies and more cleaning time which may result in additional nominal fees. Speak to your CertaPro estimator about the number of colours, accent/feature walls included in your project.

Will CertaPro Painters leave me with touchup paint?

CertaPro leaves “leftover” tinted paints to ensure that you have paint should touchups be required. Our detailed quotes also ensure that you have a permanent reference record of what paint, sheen and colour was used on your project.

The Process and Our People

I just bought a new home but I haven’t moved in yet. Do I have to wait until I take possession to get an estimate?

CertaPro can provide you with an estimate based on the real estate listing between the purchase and possession (closing date) so that we can schedule your job for a quick turnaround before you get settled in!

What experience and background do the foremen and painters have?

CertaPro painters are experienced, insured professionals. Our painters have all required certifications on working at heights, operation of equipment and safety training.

How is payment handled?

At the time of quote/booking, you will be advised if any deposit is required. Upon your satisfactory completion of our work, the balance of the payment is due. You can pay by cheque, e-transfer or credit card.

What if dry rot or other carpentry issues are discovered during the painting process?

Sometimes the estimating process does not reveal rot or other carpentry issues. For example, in ladder accessible areas we only identify issues when the crew is up close and able to touch and inspect. At that time, any identified issues will be immediately brought to your attention and solutions can be discussed for your prior approval.

How can you assure me that communication will be consistent throughout the process?

The CertaPro Certainty Service System focuses on communication throughout our process. The initial meeting with the painting crew includes a review of the scope of work and our Certainty Pledge. The crew will then provide daily updates thoughout a multi-day project culminating in the “Pride Walk” where the client and job supervisor review the work at the end of the process to ensure the client’s satisfaction.

How many people will be on location at any given time?

The number of people on your painting crew will depend on the size of the project. This generally ranges between one to four painters.

Trust and Assurance

Do CertaPro Painters carry worker’s compensation and general liability insurance policies?

Yes! We maintain both WSIB and General Liability Insurance.

How do I know for sure if a contractor carries worker’s compensation insurance?

Ask to see the WSIB clearance certificate and the Certificate of Insurance. The painter should make both available to you without hesitation.

Is Your Company A Member Of The Better Business Bureau, A Local Chamber Of Commerce, Or Any Trade Associations?

CertaPro Painters of Hamilton are proud members of the Better Business Bureau and the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce. Our locally owned and operated business considers itself a part of the community and treats all of its customers as “Customers for Life”.

How Long Is Your Warranty and what does it cover?

In addition to the warranty on the paint products, CertaPro provides warranty coverage for two years from the date of completion of the work that covers peeling, blistering or chipping paint resulting from defective workmanship.