Home renovation can be a thrilling adventure, but let’s be honest—it can also be a bit overwhelming. As you get ready to start your project and chat with paint contractors, wouldn’t it be great to know what the pros wish you knew beforehand?
Imagine being told, “Double your budget,” or warned that “Everything in your home is going to get covered in dust.” These insights, shared by experienced homeowners who’ve been through the ups and downs of renovations, can save you time, money, and a lot of frustration. Contractors have seen it all—from unexpected delays to the smallest overlooked details that turn into major headaches.
In this article, we’ve rounded up 15 things paint contractors wish every homeowner knew before diving into a project. So before you grab that paintbrush, take a minute to read on—you might just avoid some common (and costly) mistakes.
10 Things Painting Contractors Wish You Knew
When it comes to house painting, especially if you are in Wichita, Kansas, there are some insider tips that can make a big difference. Understanding what painting contractors would want you to know can save you time, money, and hassle.
Whether you’re planning to tackle your interior or exterior painting project on your own or with the help of professional paint contractors, here are 15 key things to keep in mind:
- Quality matters more than list price.
It is easy to be attracted to the lowest bid when planning a painting project, but remember: you often get what you pay for. Although the initial savings may seem tempting, the cheapest options usually involve tradeoffs. The cost to paint a house can vary widely, with an average price of around $3,300. Typically, you’ll pay between $1.50 to $4.00 per square foot for exterior painting. This depends on factors like house size, siding type, and regional labor costs.
- Larger homes or those with multiple stories will naturally cost more to paint. Painting the second story of a home can increase costs by about 50% due to the extra time and equipment needed.
- The material of your home’s siding also plays a big role in the cost. For example, painting wood siding costs about $2.00 per square foot, while brick siding can cost around $3.00 per square foot due to its porous nature.
- Labor costs can vary widely based on your location. Nationally, the average labor rate for painters ranges from $25 to $100 per hour. In Wichita, Kansas, labor costs are generally more affordable compared to areas in the U.S.
High-quality paint and skilled labor may cost a little more, but in the long run, they will save you from having to redo the job sooner than expected. So, instead of focusing only on price, think about the value you are getting for your money.
- Preparation is a MUST for any painting project.
Mauro Henrique, a painting expert from This Old House, stresses that 85 percent of a successful paint job lies in the prep work. These are two of the most important steps.
- Start with cleaning: Before you even think about picking up a paintbrush, be sure to clean the walls, trim, or any other surface. Dust, grease, and dirt can prevent the paint from adhering properly, which can result in an uneven, non-durable finish.
- Tape and drop cloths are our best friends: Painter’s tape (often underestimated)helps to protect areas that should not be painted and to secure masking paper to floors. Also, cleaning cloths are essential to protect floors and furniture. Mauro recommends using thin plastic sheeting for delicate furniture and heavier canvas sheeting for floors.
Experts at Koehn Painting also advise high-quality paint, as it provides better coverage, durability, and a more polished final result. In short, if you want a paint job that lasts and looks extraordinary, it is a good idea not to cut corners in the prep work.
- Plan for the unexpected.
When planning a painting project, it is good to provide a financial cushion by adding an extra 15 to 20 percent to the budget. Unexpected surprises, such as discovering rot hidden under old paint or finding that more coats are needed than originally planned, can quickly drive up costs.
By setting aside that extra money, you’ll be ready for any surprises. That way, your project can stay on track without causing you extra stress.
- Choose the perfect time to paint.
The best time to paint is when temperatures are consistently above 50°F but not too hot—ideally in late spring (April and May) or early autumn (September and October). During these months, the temperatures are mild, and the humidity levels moderate (40-70%).
Avoid the extremes of Kansas weather. The scorching summer heat and freezing winter cold can mess with your paint job. It’s also wise to steer clear of rainy periods, like May, which is the wettest month. You don’t want the rain to disrupt your painting project.
We’ve got an article on this topic that you can check out here.
- Always invest in quality materials.
Choosing high-quality paints and primers is a smart investment, especially with Kansas’s tough weather conditions.
- Go for Premium paints: Look for top exterior paints, like 100% acrylic latex. These paints are durable, flexible, and resistant to cracking and fading. Brands like Sherwin-Williams, Benjamin Moore, and Behr offer excellent options.
- Don’t skimp on primers: A good primer is just as important as the paint. If your home’s siding is chalky or weathered, consider using a bonding primer that’s designed for maximum stickiness. Products like Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 or KILZ Premium are solid choices.
- Search for the right finish: Satin and semi-gloss finishes are great for exteriors because they offer a slight sheen that repels moisture and dirt, making your home easier to clean. These finishes also add an extra layer of protection.
Cheaper paints and primers might seem like a good deal, but they often don’t hold up as well.
- Protect your belongings before painting.
Painting can be a messy job, so it is essential to take steps to protect your belongings before work begins. Start by moving furniture out of the room or covering it with plastic sheeting. Be sure to cover floors with tarps or protective covers to protect them from spills or splashes. Don’t forget the smaller items: remove or cover anything that is not painted, including light fixtures, doorknobs, and even electronics.
- Maintain communication with your painting contractors.
From the outset, be sure to maintain an open line of dialogue with the contractor. If you have concerns or questions, do not hesitate to raise them right away.
Make sure you and your contractor agree on every aspect of the project, whether it’s timing, materials, or specific details of the work. Regular checks can help ensure that everything runs smoothly and according to plan.
- Control dust spread.
When your painting project involves sanding or drywall work, controlling dust spread is essential to keep your home clean. You can, for example, isolate work areas, close vents and windows, use tools to reduce dust, install air cleaners or exhaust fans, cover furniture, electronics, and floors with durable plastic, place adhesive mats at the entrance, and also opt for wet sanding.
9. Read the contract carefully and secure a warranty.
Before the painting project gets underway, it is important to make sure that everything is clearly defined in the contract. At Koehn, we believe things should be clear and transparent. Our contracts cover all the details: what will be done, how much it will cost, and when payments should be made. You don’t have to worry about paying upfront; you only pay when the job is finished and you are completely satisfied.
We also provide a fixed estimate so that there are no surprise charges. If some of the work is billed by the hour, we will make sure this is clear in the estimate. We also back up our work with a solid warranty that covers any problems with materials or workmanship. Make sure the “Satisfaction Guarantee” policy is included in the contract so you know your project is protected.
10. Be mindful of small changes and expect final touch-ups.
During a painting project, it is normal to think about additional tasks to be given to the contractor. However, even small changes can quickly add up in cost and time. Before asking for extra work, be sure to understand the impact on the budget and schedule.
Also, don’t be surprised if the painter has to come back for finishing touches after the main job is done. It is normal for some small areas to need attention once the paint has dried completely and the job has been inspected. These touch-ups are part of the process to make everything perfect, just as you expected.
Get in touch with us today and we will connect you with the right painting contractor for your home or business.
Expert House Painters Share Trends and Tips for Your Home
When it comes to renovating the exterior of your home, partnering with house painters and paint contractors can really make your work easier.
Local professional painters know how to choose the right colors and techniques to make your home stand out while also protecting it from the elements. They usually recommend using paints that offer UV resistance and flexibility to handle temperature swings.
Not only that. Today’s homeowners are choosing bold, unique colors that reflect personal style. Painting contractors suggest instead exploring current trends to find colors that improve your home’s exterior and make it stand out in the whole neighborhood.
Moreover, professional painters follow strict safety protocols, using protective gear and providing proper ventilation to protect both workers and their families during the project.
Tips from local painting contractors are the secret move to keep your home looking fresh for years to come. Hiring professional services can bring many advantages over a do-it-yourself project. In fact, those who have already been working in the industry for 20-30 years know exactly how to go about it, what to choose and what will make your walls look their best.
Looking for Paint Contractors? Choose Koehn
Are you in Wichita, KS, looking for paint contractors?
For over 35 years, Koehn Painting has been a trusted name in Wichita, known for delivering professional interior and exterior painting services with a personal touch. Founded by Leroy and Susan Koehn, our family-owned business has grown into one of Kansas’s leading painting companies, all while staying true to our mission: to make a positive impact on our clients‘ and employees’ lives through hard work, adaptability, and a strong commitment to quality.
With a team of over 30 skilled professionals, we’re equipped to handle any project, big or small, ensuring your home looks its best year-round.
What makes us stand out? We use high-quality, eco-friendly materials that not only make your home look beautiful but also help protect the environment. From low-VOC and zero-VOC paints to energy-efficient practices, we’re committed to doing the right thing for your home and the planet.
Ready to give your home a fresh, unique touch? Experience the Koehn Painting difference—where your ideas meet our expertise. Contact us today for a free estimate and step into a beautifully painted home that you’ll love for years to come!
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