Exterior home painting is often the job of a contractor. Here are some tips on hiring one:

Be certain that the contractor is insured.

Get more than one estimate.

Ask the painting contractor to walk you through the entire process from start to finish. And ask questions. Will they power wash the house first? Will they fix any cracked boards? Will they apply a prime coat?

Ask for references and look at some of a contractor’s completed jobs.

Choose an experienced painting contractor who has a good reputation.

“Go with someone who’s been doing it a long time, not for a couple of years,” says Bernie Katz, owner of Atlas Wallpaper and Paint Company in Cherry Hill. “Painters come and go like the seasons.”

Ask for advice and references for reliable contractors from your local, reputable paint store or paint dealer.

Check the Better Business Bureau; make sure no formal complaints have been lodged against the contractor.

Before applying paint, be sure the surface is thoroughly cleaned.

Use a quality primer seal, especially when the change in color is drastic.

Don’t skimp on quality of brushes and rollers. Tools of poor quality can make the job harder to complete and dimish the finished appearance.

Buy quality paint. It could save you time and money in the long run. Price point is often a good indicator of quality; color steadfastness and durability are others. Cheap paint make wind up costing you more in additional coats.

Source: South Jersey Courier Post Online.com