There are many good reasons to use professional painters who are licensed, bonded and insured.
For starters, you don’t want to risk doing business with a company that cuts corners; that could result in financial or legal liability for you, say Alamo Painting owner Roger Hill. An obvious example: If a company doesn’t pay Workers' Compensation or carry proper liability insurance, you could be responsible for an employee injured on the job.
But it’s not just a legal precaution. If you want the best paint job for your money, you need professional contractors who know and can implement the key principles of painting:
Preparation
All services that need to be painted must be thoroughly cleaned and free of any contaminants. Any irregularities or gaps on surfaces where moisture can penetrate must be properly sealed and caulked. Any existing, loose or failing paint product needs to be removed so the house can actually receive paint. That will ensure a lasting job.
Understanding the surface
It’s important to have information about the surface being painted. Not all surfaces are equal, so they don’t all take the same type of paint. Different surfaces also require specific types of primer to ensure an even and durable application.
Choosing the right paint
Paint quality varies greatly. There are premium grade products, contractor's grade products and low-end products that give inferior protection. It’s important to choose paints that will last and protect the surfaces they cover.
In a state like California, it’s important to understand the unique requirements of painting stucco, a predominant exterior surface. Stucco is very porous, with ridges, edges and small ends. Paint that’s sprayed onto stucco will simply sit on the surface without penetrating. Someone needs to come directly after the sprayer to roll the paint in thoroughly, penetrating every nook and cranny.
