Home Improvement Articles, resources and tips
Painting
A new coat of paint is an economical way to freshen up an old room, make a new room look finished, or update a home's exterior. Though many people take the DIY approach, they soon find large projects are far too time consuming to complete without a professional. In fact, a quality paint job often takes one coat of primer followed by two coats of color–a daunting task for any homeowner.
Moreover professional painters often have experience in more sophisticated decorative techniques. Sponging, rag rolling, and faux finishes are just a few of the options available. Distressing involves creating an aged look, while color blocking involves painting several colors in various sized blocks on the wall.
Several choices of paint also exist. Matte can be used to cover up small imperfections in a wall as it doesn't reflect light, but it scratches easily. Flat enamel is more durable, while an eggshell finish offers low maintenance with only a hint of gloss. Satin finish has a smooth look, and semi–gloss has a bit of a shine. Glossy is highly reflective, but is usually used on cabinets rather than walls. You can even choose chalkboard paint!
Some painting contractors work for themselves, while others work in full-scale firms with an office support staff and sometimes other home improvement professionals, such as carpenters.
Before you hire a painter, it's important to figure out some key points: First, who will move the furniture and other items in the way? If it is the contractor, will this service cost extra and how much? Also if you have an older house, you'll want to find out of if the painter has experience working with plaster.
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