Is the outside of your home starting to peel or look run down? It’s probably time for paint! Usually a home needs to be painted every six to eight years due to weathering and water damage. Before you decide to paint, make sure you ask yourself the following four questions:

Does my home need prep work? Has any siding, window sill, hand railing or window or door trim started to rot? If you don’t want to make the repairs yourself, your painting company should be able to give you a quote for the repairs. Does your home look dirty and grimy? Try power washing before painting. Paint adheres much better to a clean, smooth surface than a dirty, bumpy one.

Do I want to change the color of my home? Doing so can give your home a completely new appearance. You need to make sure the colors you choose complement the other colors your home already has. Make sure the color you choose blends well with your roof, foundation, driveway and landscaping.

Hand brush or spray? Spraying is a quicker, easier technique but some homes benefit from being hand brushed. These include older homes with wood siding and homes that haven’t been painted in a long time. Painting by hand provides a thicker coat and penetrates deeper into the wood. Keep in mind that hand brushing will cost more because it is more labor intensive.

Which company should I choose?There are many choices when it comes to painting companies in our area. Many people choose the cheapest quote and are disappointed with the results. Take into consideration the quality of a painting company before hiring them. Make sure the company is insured and ask for references.