Frequently Asked Questions

Hiring Painters

What should I look for when hiring a painting contractor?
Before hiring a painting contractor, you should always request information on the painter’s licensing and insurance. This protects both the crew and your property if any damage or injury should happen when they are painting.

Do you have reviews and pictures of projects you have completed? 
Any painters you bring in will be able to provide references from past clients that you can review. It’s also a good idea to check online review sites to get an unbiased opinion of the painters. Check our reviews or Google My Business for our client’s opinions. A portfolio of images will show you the quality of work you can expect from your painters. We have an online portfolio of residential interior and exterior projects.

Do you charge for estimates?
We always provide free estimates to our customers. It’s important for a team member to meet with you and discuss your project and expectations. We can also gather color information, measurements and discuss any necessary repairs you may need. This allows us to provide you the most accurate and thorough estimate for your work.

Painting

What if you find unexpected damage?
Even with an inspection during your estimate, it occasionally happens that we find unexpected damage beneath the paint. Should this happen on your job, we will immediately notify you and get approval on any additional charges to correct the damage.

Will you complete my job in a timely manner without interruption?
We do our best to complete projects in an efficient and timely manner. Sometimes, unavoidable circumstances prolong the painting portion of your job. This can be due to unexpected damage, inclement weather or other issues.

How will my personal property be protected from paint? Do I need to move everything from the rooms before you paint?
Our crews know that the most important part of a paint job is the preparation, and that includes the protection of your property. Your crew will move appropriate furniture from the area. Bigger pieces and floors are protected with drop cloths and tape. This provides protective covering and straight lines on each area we paint.

How long will it take for the paint to dry?
Coatings, finishes and location of the paint will all effect the dry time of your paint job. It’s generally 24-48 hours before a paint job is completely dried to a hard surface. Fumes on interior jobs can linger, and sunshine can speed up drying on exteriors. If you have concerns about dry time for your specific job, your jobsite manager will be able to give you details.

Color Choice

What color should I choose?
This question trips up even the most opinionated home owners. Choosing the wrong color or sheen can make or break the look. For example, you’ll want to choose a satin finish for wet or messy rooms like bathrooms, kitchens and nurseries. This finish allows for more cleaning and scrubbing without damaging paint. In darker rooms, you’ll want to choose a high luster finish that will bounce light around the room giving it a more open feel.

Do you have color help available?
We have highly trained color consultants who are able to help you with your color and finish choices. They will work with you to create a pleasing palette for any interior or exterior project you have planned.

What is VOC?
VOCs, or volatile organic compounds are the smells released into the air from paint. These fumes can be harmful to those in the home and the painters as well. Our crews know it’s important to work in a well ventilated area and keep air moving to remove these fumes. Paint manufacturers have addressed the concerns of homeowners and responded with low and no VOC options of paint. If you are concerned about fumes, ask your estimator about these options.

After Painting

When do I pay you?
You should never be asked by any painter to pay for the entirety of the job up front. At CertaPro Painters of Harrisburg, it is our policy to take a deposit to secure dates, crews and supplies. At the completion of the job, the remainder comes due. We also offer special promotions throughout the year.

How long will my painting job last?
Paint jobs depend on the room and usage. Typically an interior paint job will last between 5 and 10 years with room usage and messes deciding the difference. The exterior will last between 5 and 7 years. If you live in a climate with a lot of precipitation or UV rays, your home could need painting more often.