Choosing a painter

Sometimes we are asked the question, "How do  I choose a good painter?  Why should I choose a licensed painting contractor?"   Here are some insights.

House painters are a dime- a- dozen.   When the economy is struggling, people try their hand at anything to  survive and make money.  The great thing about painting is that you can learn on the job.   Home owners can find a great deal of satisfaction in doing their own painting projects.   Doing painting projects yourself can save money if you are willing to put in the time.   Not every project needs a painting contractor.  There are some projects, however, when a licensed painting contractor is worth the money. If the it is big project or is a project 
 you don't know how to do, get a professional. 

Check out his references and qualifications before you invest financially.

Why Choose a Licensed Painting Contractor?

• Licensed painting contractors are regulated by the state. Passing a state test is required before a license is issued.  Every state has its own requirements.
• License renewal is required every two or three years, along with proof of courses on techniques and business law.

Most state tests require knowledge in the following areas.

•  Reading and interpreting construction codes and regulations
•  Health department regulations
•  Appropriate building codes
•  Trade materials, tools, equipment and methods 
•  Surface preparation 
•  Problems  and prevention
•  Color
•  Business management principles
•  International Building Code and current state amendments
•  Code of Federal Regulations or  OSHA

Choosing a licensed painting contractor is for your own protection.  With a licensed painting contractor, your projects are most likely to turn out right.   If there is a problem, the contractor will know to find resolutions. If there is a problem with the contractor's work, the state can investigate and take appropriate action.  How do you know if your painter is licensed?

• Ask for license information
• Check your State Department of Commerce and Licensing Division.
• Ask if the license is issued under the contractor's name or the company's name.
• Check your local Better Business Bureau.

This is only a summary of qualifications that licensed painting contractors have to know.   Always investigate about your painter before you make a financial commitment.   Get two or three bids to make sure you know the price is in the ball park; not too low or too high.

Seely Painting, Inc.