Frequently Asked Questions
What types of preparation need to be done to my house?
Each homeowner has a different vision of their project. This means that the level of preparation will be tailored to meet the needs of each homeowner and unique project. Below is a description of the various types of preparation we perform at CertaPro Painters of WNY. Your estimator will discuss with you what you hope to achieve with your project, tailor the proposal to capture that vision, and price the project accordingly.
- Washing – New paint requires a clean, dry and firm base to adhere correctly
- Scraping – All loose and peeling paint should be removed by scrapers, knives and/or steel brushes. All areas should be scraped back to a firm edge.
- Sanding – Sanding, depending on the condition of the substrate, is sometimes necessary to remove loose and peeling paint. Sanding can also help smooth out rough edges. Your estimator can help discuss the level of prep needed for your project.
- Caulking and Sealing – We will caulk areas that have been previously caulked where the caulk is missing or failing. We will also remove any failing caulk prior to re-caulking
Does all the old paint on my house need to be removed before it can be repainted?
No, not all of the old paint needs to be removed. It is important to have any loose, peeling, cracking or degraded paint removed prior to painting. However, if you do wish to have specific areas of the building stripped of all old paint (such as entryways or front doors), please discuss this with your estimator. These services can usually be priced as an option, although this type of “restoration” can be rather expensive.
What is the purpose of primer, and when it is needed?
Primers are specifically designed coatings used to prepare different surfaces to accept topcoats of paint. They solve specific challenges painters face: sealing out moisture, resisting bleeding of stains and chemicals from inside the substrate, and locking down chalky surfaces.
Surfaces that have paint adhering to them, in good condition, usually do not need a full prime coat. Rather, spot priming is performed where the surface is bare or preparation tasks have been performed. However, if an extreme color change is planned, it is often helpful to have a tinted prime coat applied to help the finish coats cover better.
How many coats of paint are appropriate for my project?
The durability and longevity of a paint job is affected more by the quality of the preparation than the number of coats to paint. In most instances, CertaPro specifies two complete coats of paint for previously painted surfaces. New, raw surfaces usually receive a full prime coat prior to finish coats being applied. Additionally, very dramatic color changes often require a full prime coat prior to finish coats being applied. This is most often seen when covering deep reds, greens and browns and/or when recoating with a very light color. Your estimator will consult with you and can provide an option for an additional coat in those areas.
If you are not changing color and the existing paint is in relatively good condition, a single coat of matching color and sheen may suffice. Your estimator will discuss the pros and cons of such a paint system with you.
How long does it take the new paint to dry?
Most latex paints set up in 30-120 minutes but may take as long as 30 days to fully cure. For this reason, we recommend opening and closing newly painted windows and doors regularly during this period to avoid sticking.
Where should I start when selecting paint colors?
At CertaPro Painters of WNY, we use Sherwin Williams products, so heading to www.sherwinwilliams.com is a great place to start. Going to your local store and checking out their color wall is the best way to see the true-to-life color with your own eyes. You can also visit our Facebook page www.facebook.com/certaprowny for color inspiration, or if you would like a color consultation, you can contact our recommended interior designer, Joanne Mitchell. Joanne’s phone number is (716) 628-6888 and email is [email protected]
Will I save money if I buy the materials?
It is not likely that you will save money by buying materials yourself. CeraPro Painters of WNY gets better discounts than the employees of most of the major paint manufacturers. If you want the best materials for the lowest price, then let us get them for you.
Is there a difference between hand-brushed and sprayed paint?
Both spraying and brushing are acceptable application methods when performed by a skilled applicator. If the surface has been properly prepared, sprayed paint will adhere as well as if brushed.
What does VOC mean?
VOC stands for “volatile organic compound” and refers to the chemicals that are off-gassed into the environment as part of the drying process. Some of them may be toxic and have a bad odor. The government has limited the types and amount of VOCs that can be used in paints. Some examples of VOCs are: paint thinner, mineral spirits, alcohol, gasoline, ethylene glycol, acetone, and xylol. Most architectural paints contain some VOCs.
What do I need to do to be ready for when the painting crew arrives?
We ask all customers to help with some standard preparation to ensure we can complete your painting project in a timely manner. We ask that small and fragile objects be removed from the rooms that we will be painting in, as well as removing all pictures and wall decorations. Take down drapes and blinds, empty closets or bookshelves. For cabinet painting, please empty drawers and cabinets with glass or other fragile items. Lastly, please move all furniture either out of the room or at least three feet away from the walls.
Do I have to be present during the entire project?
No, all we ask is that you be present during the first and last 10 minutes of the project. During the first 10 minutes on the project start date is when you will meet with the Job Site Supervisor to be able to review the contract, ask any questions, address any concerns and go over the project plan. Then during the last 10 minutes, or the Pride Walk as we like to call it, you will be able to review all of the work that was completed with the Job Site Supervisor or Production Manager to ensure your complete satisfaction.
