If you are considering having your house painted in Ramsey MN, residential painting contractors help you turn your exciting ideas into reality. A residential painting contractor can provide you with an estimate. These are some important points that cover what you can expect during the process.

Calculating a Painting Estimate

There are several factors that are involved in determining an estimate. For example, you may need the interior and the exterior painted, which would include two different types of projects. An exterior painting quote will likely differ from an interior one. Although companies have their own methods and prices, these are some of the main considerations that interior and exterior painters use to calculate estimates.

Surfaces

For interior and exterior painting, different types of surfaces vary in their complexity for painting. For example, if your home has an octagonal tower or several gables with unusual angles and designs, those may take more time to paint than four flat walls. Also, estimators look at whether the walls are smooth, textured or have special features.

Preparatory Work

Some surfaces do not need as much preparation. For example, painting the interior walls of a home that was just built may not be as challenging as removing wallpaper, fixing cracks in walls and then painting them. Interior and exterior walls must be properly prepared, which may involve patching, caulking or sanding. Additionally, exterior walls usually need to be cleaned with power washing. Walls should also be primed to optimize paint adherence and to produce an even look. The estimator can determine how much preparatory work is necessary by evaluating the current condition of the walls.

Measurements

Each square foot of space that needs to be painted will require a certain amount of paint, primer or coating. To determine a fair cost, the estimator will measure the space that will be painted. Doors, frames, brick facades or other areas that will not be painted are deducted from the measurements. If you want trim, doors or other features in the house painted, those will be measured for the estimate calculation.

Type of Paint

During this part of the estimate, the estimator will ask you how you want the paint to look. While some people prefer a glossy finish, others prefer a matte finish. Special colors, custom combinations and using multiple colors in an area are important considerations. The estimator will also ask you about any preferences or choices for exterior paints and finishes. If you have questions about which choices are better for longevity or appearance, the estimator can provide guidance.

Preferred Time

If you want someone to paint during the evenings or weekends while you are home, you may find that some companies do not operate during those hours. Others may charge a little extra. The estimator can tell you if there are any price variations based on time slots. Also, the estimator will ask you how soon you want the painting job completed.

What Should You Ask Interior or Exterior Painters?

Most people are not sure what to say to a painting estimator. Since it can take a lot of research to learn more about painting warranties, paint types and more, these are some questions that you can ask to save yourself some time:

• Do you handle all the preparatory and cleanup work?
• What all does the estimate cover?
• What preparatory steps are required for my project?
• Do you offer any type of warranty on materials or work?
• If any permits are required, do I pay for them?
• What paint products are ideal for my project?
• How long will the project take?
• Will you be sending employees, contractors or subcontractors to my home?
• If you work with subcontractors, how long have you worked with these ones?

Depending on your situation, you may want to ask other questions. For example, you may want to ask what the contractor’s plan is if the weather is bad during your exterior painting project. This would likely not be a big issue if you only need interior painting. For an exterior project, you may also want to ask if the company has at least a few years of experience in exterior painting. Some people also like to ask painting companies for references if they are considering hiring the business for a large-scale project.

What Should a Good Estimator Do?

In many cases, you can get an idea of what to expect when you meet with the estimator. An estimator is often a reflection of the company’s values, policies and quality of work. These are some things that you should expect from the estimator.

Be Courteous

A conscientious worker will wear boot covers in your home if the individual shows up in work attire. The estimator should show respect for your belongings, family, pets and home.

Listen and Understand

A good estimator will first listen to you to learn what you want. Look for someone who exercises active listening skills. At the end, the estimator should reiterate your vision to ensure that what he or she understands matches your ideas.

Be Knowledgeable

If an idea is not possible, a residential painting contractor will be able to explain why. A good painting company can explain the benefits and basic characteristics of paint to you. Also, a reliable representative will be familiar with the company’s policies, calendar and more.

Provide a Reliable Estimate

The estimator should provide an itemized list of services to show how the quote or estimate is calculated. The estimate should be accurate. Be wary of estimators who provide wide ballpark figures and expect you to compensate for any unexpected costs. A good painting company can identify potential issues ahead of time. Also, be wary of estimators who write nothing but a number on the back of a business card as an estimate. A formal estimation form should include details of the price, timeline, materials for your project and required services.

Call Chrave Davis Painting for Residential Painting Services If you are looking for an interior or exterior painting quote, we can help. Chrave Davis Painting provides free estimates for painting services in Ramsey MN. We live up to all professionalism expectations and are happy to answer any of your questions, and we will be glad to consult with you on colors, scheduling and more. Please contact us to learn more.