Should You Hire a Painting Contractor?

When the time comes to give the interior or exterior home a fresh coat of paint, many people are faced with this question:

Should I do it myself or hire a painting contractor?

This is a legitimate question because many people like the idea of doing home improvement projects themselves, yet can become hesitant due to lack of time or experience. Surely there have been plenty of DIY folks who have kicked themselves for tackling a painting project themselves. Others have gone on to enjoy the painting project. The answer to this question depends on various factors. Let’s take a look at them:

1. How much do you know?

It is important to consider how much you know about paint and the painting process. Do you know the different kinds of paints? Should you use latex, oil, flat, etc? What types of paint are to be used in bathrooms? Kitchens? If you have children, what type would be beneficial? If you are not familiar with paint, it will serve you well to hire a painting contractor.

2. Do you have the tools to apply paint?

When you get right down to painting, you must have some painting tools in order to get the job done effectively. If you don’t have them, you will need to purchase them. You will need supplies like rollers, paint trays, an extension roller, plastic to lay on floor, painting tape, paint brushes, a ladder, and more.

3. Do you know how to paint effectively?

Anyone can pick up a paint roller and roll, but not everyone can make the room look painted professionally. Painting takes some skill and practice, so if you are lacking in this, you ought to consider hiring a painting contractor.

4. Do you understand safety measures?

Sometimes painting can be hazardous, as you may have to get up on a ladder or the kitchen counter in order to reach hard to get spots. To be on the safe side, it’s best to hire a painting contractor that is used to doing this and has the right safety tools for the job.

5. Are you willing to do the prep work?

Oh, the glorious job of taping so that you can paint the edges! Let’s not forget about covering the floor and furniture with plastic and moving large pieces of furniture away from the walls! Are you willing to do the tedious prep work in order to do the job right?

6. Do you feel like cleaning up?

Cleaning paint brushes, tearing paint tape off, and removing the plastic can wear on you after you’ve spent a great deal of time painting. Are you going to feel like doing this after a long day of painting? Hire a professional and you won’t have to clean anything!

If you are really wondering whether to hire a painting professional or tackle the job yourself, ask yourself these questions and answer them honestly. Sure, it might cost you more to hire a professional, but it will save you a lot of time and headaches in the long run. Plus, you’ll be getting a professional painting job instead of an amateur paint job. That is something to smile about.