When the painting is completed, most good painters will give you a written invoice that details the completed work. This invoice usually includes:

• The contractor’s name, physical address and license number.
  
• A list of all services performed.
  
• An itemized list of all the paint and painting supplies purchased.
  
• The total cost for painting services, including the amount due for labor.
  
• Any applicable warrantees or guarantees provided by the paint manufacturers and the company.

It’s smart to compare the completed work to what was promised on the written invoice. Ask your company representative to walk through the job site with you and show you the work. Check what was done against the invoice. During the walk-through, ask if there are any special instructions for maintaining your new paint. If you have questions about the work that was done or the materials used, this is the time to ask.

Most good painting contractors offer some type of warranty on their work or on the materials they’ve used. All warranty details should be provided to you in writing during the contract phase or at the completion of the job. This written warranty information should include the following:

• The contractor’s name and physical address.
• What products and services are covered. This should also include whether the contractor will replace or repair your new paint in the event of a product failure.
• Your responsibility if you place a warranty claim(i.e., if you have to pay for labor or materials, or if you are required to pay a prorated amount).
• Terms, limitations and exclusions on the paint, materials and workmanship.
• If the warranties are transferrable to the new owner if you sell your home.

The top 10 requests for residential painting services in Sonoma County are listed below.

Paint Color Selection
Paint color selection is a service offered by many painting companies in Sonoma County. Paint selection considers possible colors, existing colors in the home and overall room scheme. Paint matching may also be available in cases where homeowners want to match new paint to an existing color.

Interior Painting
Any painting done on the interior surfaces of a home is referred to as interior painting. Interior paint for walls and ceilings comes in many colors and finishes, including faux and decorative finishes, wood stains and clear finish. Many modern interior paints are available in environmentally-friendly formulations that have lower toxicity than exterior paints.

Exterior Painting
Exterior paint is applied to the outside of homes and buildings. Exterior paints must be more flexible and fade-resistant than interior paints to stand up to changing weather conditions and the fading effects of the sun.

House Painting
The term house painting can include interior and exterior painting, and often takes into account the entire process from color selection, prepping, taping, priming, painting and sealing. Many painters specialize in painting homes, while others paint commercial buildings, industrial buildings and government buildings.

Decorative Painting Techniques
Also known as faux finishing and faux painting, decorative techniques such as tromp l’oeil, sponge painting, rag rolling, venetian plaster, marbling, stripe technique (striping), color washing, pickling, liming, wood graining, verdigris (aged copper-like patina) and antiquing are popular methods that add a custom touch to newly-painted surfaces.

Faux Painting
Like decorative painting techniques, faux painting is a technique that adds a faux finish to the surface. Venitian plastering, faux suede, faux marble or marbleizing and wood graining are examples of popular faux painting.

Commercial Painting
Any painting in commercial buildings, including stores, schools, offices, museums, public buildings and hospitals is referred to as commercial painting. Some contractors only offer commercial painting, while others provide a combination of services that includes commercial, industrial and residential painting.

Low VOC Paint
Low VOC paints have lower quantities of volatile organic compounds, or chemicals that may be harmful to human health. Low-VOC paints are often suggested for use in homes and office buildings where people spend a great deal of time. The use of low-VOC and no-VOC paints may help improve indoor air quality.

Industrial Painting
Industrial painting services in Sonoma County offer painting for large industrial and commercial buildings. Industrial painting often includes metal building interior and exteriors, ceilings, walls, floors, metal siding, metal roofs, office buildings, parking structures, factories, manufacturing plants and warehouses.

Painting Services
Painting services is a term that encompasses all services offered by local painting companies. Common painting services include house painting, interior painting, exterior painting, residential and commercial painting, paint preparation, spray painting, paint rolling and high-volume painting services.

Top 10 Brand Requests

1. Sherwin-Williams Paint
2. Behr Paint
3. Glidden Paint
4. Dulux Paint
5. ICI Paint
6. Benjamin Moore Paint
7. Valspar Paint
8. Dutch Boy Paint
9. Kelly-Moore Paint
10. Olympic Paint

acrylic paint
Acrylic paint is a water-based synthetic paint known for high performance and long-lasting color. Acrylic paints are water-soluble when wet but become flexible and durable once dry. Acrylic paints can be diluted with water to thin them and can be mixed together to create different colors.

Also known as: acrylic house paint, acrylic latex paint, acrylic enamel, acrylic interior paint, acrylic exterior paint

antique finish
A specialized finish usually applied to furniture and woodwork to give the appearance of age and antiquing. Antique finishes may appear worn, cracked, rough or hand-rubbed.

Also known as: antiquing, antiqued wood, faux antique finish, antique oil finish, shabby chic finish,antique painting, distressed paint, distressing, aged-look painting, country-antique finish

curing
Curing is the time it takes for paint to fully bond and become dry and stable. While the surface of paint may dry quickly, most paints take up to two weeks to fully dry internally. Care should be taken not to scratch, dent or scar curing paint.

Also known as: paint curing, paint drying, drying paint, high-temperature paint curing

cutting in
Painting contractors in Sonoma County refer to the painting technique that neatly creates a line where two edges or colors meet as “cutting in.” When cutting in, painters usually use a trim brush with beveled or angled bristles to apply a finished-line edge.

Also known as: cutting, cutting in paint, cut-in, cut-in walls, cutting-in ceilings

eggshell finish
Eggshell finish is a type of paint finish that has a slight sheen.

Also known as: egg shell finish, eggshell paint finish, satin finish paint

elastomeric paint
Elastomeric paint is a thick, flexible and waterproof rubberized paint. It can create a waterproof barrier on almost any surface, including masonry and stucco. Elastomeric paints are generally used on home exteriors and come in almost every brand and color.

Also known as: elastomeric exterior paint, elastomeric masonry, elastomeric stucco paint, elastomeric rubberized paint, rubber paint, elastomeric coatings, waterproof paint barrier

enamel finish
A type of household paint that dries to a hard finish. Enamel finishes may be flat paint, gloss paint or semi-gloss paint.

Also known as: enamel interior paint, enamel exterior paint, hard enamel finish, glossy enamel paint

epoxy
Epoxy is a type of paint that is made from tightly-binding chemicals. Epoxies resist standing water and extreme surface conditions, so epoxy finishes are a good choice for industrial painting and other areas that need a tough, protective coating.

Also known as: polyester epoxy, fusion bonded epoxy powder coatings (FBE), epoxy resin, powder coatings, two-part epoxy coatings

fading
Paints that are exposed to high amounts of light, heat and weathering can experience fading. Fading can be postponed by choosing higher quality paints, choosing lighter colors and applying more coats of paint.

Also known as: paint fading, residential paint fading, faded paint, paint fade restoration, sun faded paint, sun fading paint

faux finishing
Faux finishing encompasses a wide range of decorative painting techniques used to make one surface appear like another. Some faux painting creates an illusion of depth or texture. Common faux finishes include: texturizing, color washing, paint combing, marbleizing, wood graining, stria, rag painting, stenciling, metallic paints, glazing, plaster of paris, sponge painting, faux brick finishes, wall murals, smooth finishes, and other similar wall treatments.

Also known as: faux painting, faux finishes, faux finish painting, faux paint texture, decorative painting, decorative faux finishes

finish coat
The final coat of paint applied to walls, ceilings and other structures is referred to as the finish coat.

Also known as: finishing coat, final coat, top coat, finished coat

flaking
When paint fails and small pieces flake off, the paint is said to be flaking. Like peeling, cracking and blistering paint, flaking paint occurs when a layer of paint detaches from the surface it has been applied to. Once a paint job starts flaking, the best fix is to completely strip and sand the surface and reapply a better quality paint.

Also known as: paint flakes, flaking paint, chipped paint, peeling paint, paint flaking off

flat finish paint
Flat finish is the most common paint finish. Flat finishes reflect the least amount of light and have a pleasing appearance. Flat finishes have no sheen or gloss and are common interior and exterior paint choices.

Also known as: flat paint finish, flat finishes, no-gloss paints, flat paint

gloss paint finish
Glossy paints have a shiny sheen and reflect light. Gloss finishes are shiny and durable, although they may be more prone to scratching and flaws than flat paints. Glossy finishes are generally used as accent paints on cabinets, trim and furnishings.

Also known as: glossy paint, glossy paint finish, gloss finish, gloss paints, semi-gloss, high gloss paints, demi-gloss finish

lacquer
Lacquer is a fast-drying, clear or lightly-pigmented varnish. It dries as the solvents evaporate and often requires a curing process in order to develop a hard coating. Lacquer is most commonly used on wood and furniture.

Also known as: lacquer spray, gloss lacquer, clear lacquer, lacquer sealant, lacquer sealer, shellac, varnish

latex paint
Latex paint are synthetic, water-based paints that dry quickly and are easy to clean. Latex paints are opaque and are easy to paint over with another latex-based paint.

Also known as: acrylic paint, acrylic latex paint

metallics
Metallic paints are interior paints that have metal flecks in them. The metal flakes are reflective and create a shimmery, luminous appearance.

Also known as: metallic paints, polychromatic paint, metal flake paint, metal paint, metallic-finish paint

paint thinner
Paint thinners are solvents used to thin and clean up oil-based paints. Many paint thinners are made of toxic or potentially dangerous chemicals. Paint thinners should be used carefully and sparingly. Using a water-based paint will make it unnecessary to use paint thinners.

Also known as: paint solvent, acetone, mineral spirits, turpentine, naptha, touline, xylene, MEK, DMF, liquid thinner

peeling paint
When a layer of paint detaches from the lower layers of paint, it is referred to as peeling paint. Paint peeling can be caused by moisture or poor adhesion due to improper preparation. Peeling paint must be stripped, sanded and reapplied to a clean surface.

Also known as: paint peeling, interior peeling paint, exterior paint peeling, fixing peeling paint, peeling house paint, peeling bathroom paint, peeling paint texture

priming
Priming is applying a coat of primer paint to a surface before applying paint and finish coat. Primers assure a strong bond and prevent paint from peeling, chipping and flaking.

Also known as: primer, paint prepping, preparation, primer coat, wood primers, primer sealer, primer spray

satin finish
Satin finishes have a rich texture and a slightly glossy finish. Also known as eggshell finishes, satin finish paints are durable and easy to clean.

Also known as: satin wall finish, satin interior paints, satin finishes, satin-finish paint

stain
Stain is a water- or oil-based material that is applied to surfaces to add color. Stain is often used on wood surfaces and is absorbed in to permanently stain the surface. Unlike paint, which sits on the top of the surface, stain is absorbed into the surfaces.

Also known as: wood stain, staining, interior stains, exterior stains, surface stains

textured paint
Textured paint is paint that has texturizing material within the paint or paint that can be applied with brushes, rollers, trowels or other tools to create special effects. Textured paint effects can be used to hide flaws in walls, imperfections in surfaces, accent furniture and decor, or hide stains and damage.

Also known as: texture paint, texturized paint, paint texturing, applying texture to paint

Q: Why choose a Diamond Certified painting contractor?
A: Diamond Certified helps you choose a painter with confidence by offering a list of top rated local companies that have passed the country’s most in-depth rating process. Only painting companies rated Highest in Quality and Helpful Expertise® earn the prestigious Diamond Certified award. Most companies can’t pass the ratings. American Ratings Corporation also monitors every Diamond Certified company with ongoing research and ratings. And your purchase is backed by the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee, so you’ll feel confident choosing a Diamond Certified painting company.

Q: What is lead paint and why should I be concerned about it?
A: Lead paint is a leading source of lead poisoning in children and adults, and it can cause brain damage and slowed physical development. Lead-based paints are found on interior and exterior surfaces of older homes, primarily those built before 1978. This isn’t usually a problem if the old paint is covered with new, lead-free paint. However, when the paint chips, cracks, peels or is scraped off, the lead paint underneath can pose a threat to children and pets in the home.

If your home does contain lead paint, your painting contractors legally need to take precautions when removing it. These containment procedures may include sealing off the rest of the home, wearing respirators to avoid inhaling the lead, disposing of the clothes worn while removing the lead paint, and using special filtration systems and post-removal cleaning procedures to remove all lead particles.

Q: How do I know if my home has lead paint?
A: Most homes that were built before 1978 were painted using lead paint. A simple lab test can prove if your paint contains lead. Some painting contractors in Sonoma County will test for lead paint, and lead paint tests are available at most hardware stores.

Q: Can I paint my home myself?
A: As with may home improvement projects, it is possible to paint your home yourself. If the area you want to paint is small or you have experience painting, you may be up for tackling the job yourself. However, painting can be time-intensive, messy work. And depending on the size of your project, you may be wise to hire a professional to do the job. Professional painters already have the knowledge, skill and the tools to do the job right. Most will also guarantee their work, so you’ll be more assured of getting a quality paint job that lasts.

Q: Does the quality of paint used matter?
A: With paint, the old saying usually holds true: You get what you pay for. Top-quality paints are more expensive, but they often have better ingredients that allow them to go on smoother, be more durable and last longer than cheap paint. Over the long run, you’ll have to repaint less frequently and your home will look better between painting, meaning you may save more money by spending a little more at the outset.

Q: What is the difference between paint finishes?
A: Exterior and interior paint is labeled according to its sheen and gloss. The higher the sheen, the more light reflects off of the paint and the glossier, or shinier, it appears. Your choice of paint will depend on the area and surface you’re painting, the color of paint you’ve chosen and the need to clean the painted surface and hide imperfections.
Matte and flat paints have very little to no sheen. They are generally used on walls and ceilings and are best for hiding imperfections in the surface. Eggshell finish has a slight sheen and has a lustrous appearance. It is often used on interior walls. Satin and silk finish paints have a finish that is in between that of eggshell and semigloss. They are easier to clean than flat paint. Semi-gloss finish is a shinier, glossier paint. It is easy to clean and resists staining. However, the glossier a finish is, the more likely it is that imperfections in the paint will be obvious.

Q: Why can painting estimates vary so widely?
A: Painting contractors base their prices on a number of factors—the cost of labor, the time needed for surface preparation and needed repairs, the quality of paint applied and the number of coats needed. Cheaper bids may reflect a lower quality of work or less experienced painters. However, it’s smart to question the contractors when one bid is much lower or much higher than the other bids you’ve received to make sure the painting company is bidding on the same work.

Q: My exterior paint is peeling. Why is this happening and what can I do about it?
A: Paint can peel when exposed to moisture and weathering. Your paint may be peeling because it is the wrong type of paint for the surface, it was applied in a poor manner, or the surface was not properly prepared before it was painted. If your paint is peeling, there isn’t much you can do about it. The peeling paint will need to be removed, the surface sanded and prepared, and a new coat of paint applied. Your best course for dealing with peeling paint is to remove the entire coat of paint, not just the peeling area. That’s because the rest of the paint will most likely also fail, since it was applied in the same way to the same surface. Contact a local Sonoma County painting company to assess the damage and advise you on your specific situation.

Q: I’ve been hearing a lot about low-VOC and no-VOC paints. What are they? Should I consider using them?
A: VOCs, or volatile organic compounds, are chemicals that emit potentially harmful gasses when applied and over time. Paint, lacquer, varnish, paint thinners and paint strippers often contain these chemicals. In recent years, paints with lower concentrations of these toxic compounds have become available. There are also some paint brands that offer products with no VOC content. These natural paints and finishes are durable, cost effective and less harmful. Talk with your painting contractor and ask if they are familiar with low-VOC paints and whether they would recommend them for your home.