A professional paint job can transform your home, but finding the right painter requires careful research. With so many options out there and a low barrier to entry in the industry, it’s easy to end up with someone less skilled than you’d expect. This guide will help you find a professional painter who will deliver a high-quality paint job that stands the test of time.
Qualities of a Trustworthy Painter
A skilled painter brings more than just a brush to the job. They should have qualities that set them apart from those who might do a rushed or sloppy job. Here’s how to spot a reliable professional.
Checking Their Work Quality and Experience
A professional painter should be able to provide proof of satisfied customers. Don’t just rely on photos. While pictures can give you an idea of a painter’s work, they may not show the finer details. Instead, we recommend asking for references from jobs they did at least three years ago and taking a look at those sites in person.
When you visit, pay attention to these details:
- Is the paint still in good condition, or is it showing wear?
- Are there signs of peeling or flaking?
- Is the glazing around the windows cracked?
- Is there any overspray or splatter where it shouldn’t be?
Talking to the homeowner about their experience with the painter can also give you valuable insights. Would they hire the same painter again? Their answer can tell you a lot.
Insurance and Certification
Before hiring, make sure the painter has the right insurance. They should have general liability insurance and, if they have a team, workers’ compensation insurance. Ask to see their insurance certificates and double-check that they’re up to date. This protects you in case of accidents or damage while the painter is on your property.
Tips for Finding a Professional Painter
Here are some practical steps to help you find a painter who will do the job right.
Ask for Recommendations From Trusted Sources
Word of mouth is one of the most reliable ways to find a good painter. Ask friends, family, or neighbors if they’ve had positive experiences. You can also check out local community groups and social media for recommendations.
Check Online Reviews and Ratings
While personal recommendations are great, online reviews can give you a broader picture. Websites such as Yelp and Google Reviews help you gauge the painter’s professionalism, punctuality, and overall quality of work.
Verify Their Business License
Check that the painter holds the business licenses required in your state or municipality. A licensed painter is more likely to follow industry standards and regulations, which is a good sign of their professionalism.
Watch Out for Common Scams
Unfortunately, the industry’s low barrier to entry opens the door for dishonest people to take advantage of homeowners. One common scam involves charging for premium paints but using a lower-grade product. To avoid being scammed, research your painter thoroughly, review the contract carefully, and keep open lines of communication throughout the project.
Why a Comprehensive Painting Contract Matters
A detailed written contract is your best protection when hiring a painter. It should outline all aspects of the job, from preparation to final clean-up.
Key Elements of a Painting Contract
Your contract should clearly state:
- How the paint will be applied
- Who is responsible for clean-up
- What prep work is needed
- The drying times between coats
- How the site will be protected
- Which paint products will be used, including brand, grade, color, and finish
- Warranty information
For exterior work, specify any power-washing requirements and the use of quality primers. For interior jobs, the contract should cover wall repairs and preparation of wood trim.
Payment Schedule and Terms
A fair payment schedule protects both you and the painter. We advise not to give the painter more than 10% of the total job cost at signing. A typical payment structure might look like this:
- 10% at contract signing
- One-third on the first day of work
- One-third at a specified milestone, such as when all prep work is done and the first coat is applied
- The final payment when the job is finished
This schedule motivates the painter to stay on track and complete the job to your liking before receiving full payment.
Proper Painting Preparation Techniques
Good preparation is the foundation of a long-lasting paint job. Your contract should specify exactly what prep work you need.
Exterior Surface Preparation
For exterior painting, make sure the contract includes:
- Power-washing with a bleach or TSP mixture
- Disk-sanding of wood siding
- Feathering sanded areas with a palm sander
- Filling all gaps with caulk
- Priming all siding with a penetrating, slow-drying primer
Avoid contracts that only mention “spot priming,” which is priming certain sections of the surface instead of all of it. This can lead to inconsistent results.
Interior Surface Preparation
For interior work, proper preparation includes the following:
- Checking and smoothing all drywall joints
- Repairing damaged walls
- Filling nail holes in wood trim
- Sealing knots in wood
- Priming wood trim with a slow-drying primer
- Sanding woodwork between finish coats for premium work
Paint Application Methods and Materials
The paint and application methods used are just as important as the prep work.
Specify the Paint Used
While your painter might suggest certain paints, do your own research too. Make sure the contract specifies the exact paint you want, including these details:
- Base type
- Color
- Gloss level
- Grade
- Manufacturer’s name
Application Techniques
Different surfaces and environments require different application techniques, such as the following:
- Exterior primer is best applied with a brush for better penetration.
- Interior work often benefits from a combination of rolling and brushing.
- Latex-based paint should not be applied over oil-based paint without the proper primer, which can lead to peeling.
- Spraying may be used for topcoats but requires experienced operators and proper overspray protection.
Your contract should include the application techniques you’d like the painter to use.
Painting Site Protection and Clean-Up
A professional painter will take steps to protect your home and leave it clean after the job is done.
Your contract should require the painter to use these protective measures:
- Drop cloths to cover floors and furniture
- Masking tape and paper to protect fixtures and trim
- Plastic sheeting to cover landscaping and outdoor features
For exterior jobs, this protection should extend to shrubs, driveways, and your roof. For interior work, all floors, cabinets, and fixtures should be covered.
Post-Job Expectations
A thorough clean-up is a sign of a job well done and should be non-negotiable. Clearly outline clean-up expectations in your contract, including the following:
- Cleaning windows (specify whether this is included in the painter’s fee)
- Removing all painting equipment and materials
- Restoring any disturbed landscaping
- Leaving the site in pre-job conditions
How To Inspect the Finished Paint Work
Before the painter leaves, do a final walk-through to inspect their work. Look for:
- Clean, straight lines on trims and edges
- Consistent color and coverage
- No drips, runs, or uneven areas
- Proper clean-up
Address any issues immediately while the painter is still there to fix them.