Paint Like a Professional

October 31, 2012 By

Admit it. The color of your walls change everything, even if it’s just throwing in an accent wall. I always say there are 3 things that can change a room; a rug, painting the walls, and/or curtains. I love that one thing that spices the room up! If you’re like me, you want to learn how to do everything yourself. It just can’t be too difficult, or we’re calling in the professionals. I am still trying to decide if I want, and even have time to paint my owns walls, or if I want to call a professional. Regardless, I did some research. I want to know how to paint my walls the like a professional.

First thing’s always first; supplies. You will need measuring tape, blue tape, and a screwdriver. I am always thinking how to save money. Measure the walls, so you know how much paint to buy. Line the walls with blue tape, so that your paint doesn’t leak under. The screwdriver is to unscrew any light switches or anything you might want to take off before you start painting. It makes it a lot easier, and looks neater. It’s probably safest to buy plastic to cover the floor just in case you have any accidents.

Finally, the fun stuff. You will need the paint and a stirrer. Last time I bought paint from Home Depot, and the stirrer came with it. Badabingbadaboom. You will need a roller tray and a two inch angled brush. It’s always best to have an extra roller tray and brush in case you get some help. They aren’t too pricey, and it’s better to be prepared. Time to paint.

I was thinking about logging onto YouTube and searching for some “How To” videos on how to paint like a professional, but I thought, “who am I kidding?” I am a single mother, and I work full time. I personally don’t think hiring a professional painter is overpriced, so that is the route I took. You may have extra time on your hands to try it yourself. I hope it turns out great. If not, I would recommend comparing  some prices and seeing what you find.

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Why Hire a Painting Contractor?

March 26, 2012 By

There are several items that you will need to consider when deciding on whether to paint your home for yourself, or hire a professional painting contractors.  Both have their benefits and unique set of disadvantages, but do not make your decision until you’ve read on.

Safety and Health

This is the number on item over looked when doing your painting analysis. Are you prepared to deal with dust, paint fumes, and the dangers that come with heavy ladder use?  Too often, safety is only thought about after an accident occurs. It is important to plan ahead for the above mentioned items and not to let it be an afterthought.

An important side note here: If your home was built prior to 1978, you could have toxic lead paint lining your walls.  If you are unsure if your home had lead paint or not, be sure to hire a professional to take a look.

Preparation, Experience, and Cleanup

These are also very important to consider when making your paint vs hire decision.  Surfaces need to be properly prepared, certain areas need to be effectively taped off, and if there are imperfections in your sheet rock, these will need to be taped and bedded.  You will also need to take a good hard look at your walls and decide what areas can easily be painted over and what areas will require primer.

Experience can play a major role if you want a specific look for your home.  There are complex options available to you regarding types of paint to it your needs and painting strategies to provide the finish/texture that you desire

Cleanup is never a fun part of any project but if you choose to hire a contractor, it is no longer your problem.

Proper Selection

If you decide to hire a contractor, be sure to find a reputable painting company.  Check reviews, get reference, and make the phone calls.  If a contractor is unwilling to provide you references, you should probably move on to the next company.  Not all states require painting contractors to be licensed, but you still need to ensure that the contractor is insured.  You also MUST INSIST on a written contract outlining the work to be done and total cost.

Everyone wants your money, but some will give you a better bang for your buck. It is true that you get what you pay for so do your homework before you hire any contractor to handle your painting project.

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Paint like You’re Michelangelo

June 27, 2011 By

Accent wallsLets face it. Painting is never a fun way to spend your weekends. It is often tedious work and when it comes to edging and detailing the corners, you would rather spend a weekend with your in-laws. With that being said, if you are looking to spruce up your home and don’t have a huge budget, painting might just be the way to go.

Here lately, I have gotten into “accent walls.” My entire home is painted in white. I often feel like I am trapped inside of a hospital by the lack of color that is seen on my walls. Depending on your decor, there is a wide array of possibilities to make a room pop and become a conversation starter. There is a bit of a warning that comes along with painting bright colors. That conversation starter might start with someone telling you that the color choice it is “unique” or “odd.”



I chose to paint my downstairs bathroom in bright blue. Surprisingly, this has gotten a lot of compliments. It makes the room look clean and takes a small space and opens it up. I painted an accent wall in my dinning room a forest green and I paint a wall across from this space in a red. After staring at this project for approximately 30 minutes, it occurred to me that I had created a Christmas wonderland. Not a good idea so my red wall is back to white.

I tell you this for one reason. When painting accent walls, it is very easy to get a bit carried away. Be sure you plan ahead and don’t over accent. Choose colors that fit your tastes… don’t worry about what other might think. Truth is, accent walls are a unique style to you and your home. It would impossible to ever find an accent wall that is considered universally acceptable.

TenList Painting Contractors

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