Avoid Cheap Local Painters without Overpaying

Homeowners know when painting something like a whole house, the job will be costly. It’s a tempting offer to go with the cheapest estimate you receive. Be wary, it could end up costing you in repairs and corrections in the long run. Here is how to avoid cheap local painters without overpaying.

It’s important to arm yourself with information before your estimate appointment begins. Do a thorough look over the area to be painted. Make note of areas that are discolored, potentially damaged or in need of repair. These problems will incur more costs on your estimate. Hiding the areas to avoid further costs will only allow them to grow.

After your appointment, make sure you have a written copy of the itemized work and costs to complete it. There should be sections for materials and labor.

Get estimates

Making and getting appointments with several providers can seem like overkill, but it’s important to have a painter you are comfortable with. Start your search with reviews and word of mouth, and narrow it down from there. At your appointment, make sure you get the answers to the following questions:

What prep needs to be done? Do you do it?
Can you tell me what products you use?
How many coats do you anticipate?
Could additional costs arise during the work?

Contracts

Next, once you’ve chosen a painter, get a copy of the estimate and contract. The document should have a complete list of work to be completed, schedule of work and payment plan.Normally both parties sign off.

Prep Work

Your estimate might seem overly high, but keep in mind it includes all necessary materials, man hours and repairs. This can seem like a lot. Try to put in some elbow grease and make some repairs yourself. A simple ding or bump can be repaired fairly easily and reduce crew hours and your bill.

Trim

Now that the full scope of work is laid out, decide if there are areas that you could skip. This can save you a bundle on the bill without impacting the finished product. Things like trim and ceilings can take a bunch of time and not really add to the look afterward. Since the work list is smaller, the bill will be too.

Colors

Consider colors before you start painting. To change a color greatly will take many coats, meaning more time painting and more product to purchase. To get good coverage in less coats, keep your colors similar. Deep, vivid colors take many coats to achieve true color. Also remember, if the color is outside, the sun can fade it more quickly than you can imagine.

Heading into estimates armed with this information can prepare you to get the prices and tasks you want. More importantly, you’ll be able to get a sense of the work expected from the painter. If you are in need of an estimate, contact us to set up a free, in-home, no obligation quote.