Painting Jobs Contracted by May 15, 2015 will Receive 10% OFF. Call Now!

Top Questions Homeowners Ask About Exterior Painting

Choosing a reliable painting company for exterior house painting is one of the most significant decisions a homeowner has to make. The exterior is your home’s first impression, so naturally, it would be best if a professional with experience and an excellent reputation does the job. You not only want the paint job to look good, but you want to be confident that the paint will endure the elements and have a significant lifespan. Online reviews are helpful, but they are not always the most accurate indicator of quality workmanship and industry knowledge. C&M Painting are the top exterior home painters in Shelton, Milford, Orange, and nearby CT areas with the know-how to get the job done to your satisfaction, and the reputation to back it up. If you are looking to get your home’s exterior painted, consider the following questions as you discuss the job with prospective companies.

​When is the best time of the year to paint the exterior of a home?

Waiting until June, July, and August will achieve the best results in exterior home painting. Exterior paint generally needs an ambient temperature of 50 degrees to ensure proper application. Painting a home in the spring or fall may seem acceptable, as daytime temperatures are above 50, but nighttime temps can drop to colder levels and hurt the quality of the paint job

​What is the best type of paint for the exterior?

Most painting contractors will be able to tell you the brand of paint they prefer to use and give you an explanation of why they choose that brand. It is always best to go with a top-quality name-brand paint, as lower-quality products often result in thinner coverage, shorter longevity, and poor color retention. When it comes to what finish you choose for the exterior paint, your contractor should be able to make a recommendation based on your needs. Typically, satin finishes have minor reflective attributes and a lower shine, but they are more challenging to apply and tend to amplify imperfect textures. Flat finishes are often better than glossier coats because they have a velvety, soft appearance and do not bring attention to gouges, bumps, and imperfections. Their primary drawback is that they are nearly impossible to clean. Your painting professional should be able to steer you in the right direction after inspecting your home.

How much does exterior house paint cost?

When you get an estimate from a painting contractor, it should always list an itemized description of all costs involved, including all materials, products, incidentals, and labor costs. The ultimate cost of your project will be determined based on the square footage of your home, how many stories tall it is, and how difficult it is to access the areas being painted. A typical home usually involves painting a space somewhere between 500 and 1,500 square feet, and the average cost is often between $1,000 to $3,000. These estimates, however, may vary, depending on the exact proportions and specifics of your home.

​How long does exterior paint last?

There are a variety of conditions that may affect the lifespan of your exterior paint job. A high-quality paint applied by a reputable painting contractor will typically last between seven and 10 years depending on factors like weather conditions. The best way to get a long life out of your paint job is to hire a contractor that performs all the proper surface preparation techniques and uses a paint that is known for its ability to withstand the elements, direct sunlight, and other environmental factors. Investing in regular maintenance like yearly washing and touch-ups is another way to get the most out of your investment in your home’s exterior.

​How do you prep the outside of your home for paint?

Once you have decided on the color and finish of your paint, it is essential that you prep your home for the project properly. It will help if you discuss preparation with your contractor before getting the estimate to be sure that they are performing the prep work, what measures they take to ensure the best paint job, and that this cost is figured into your estimate. The surfaces of your home should be clean and completely dry before the paint is applied. You want to be sure that any mold, mildew, or algae are thoroughly washed off before painting. Once the home is clean, all peeling or cracked paint should be scraped off, and the area being painted should be sanded and primed. Shutters should be removed and painted in a separate area if they need to be repainted as well.

​Is it better to brush, roll, or spray exterior paint?

Homeowners often wonder which option is best, and the truth is that they all have their pros and cons. Spraying paint on a home is typically faster and usually requires only one coat to cover the surface. The other benefits include ease of reaching difficult areas and no pesky brush strokes. The negatives of spraying, however, can include poor adhesion, uneven coverage, and longer prep time. Although rolling or brushing paint on can eliminate some of these cons, it does take longer, often requires two coats, and can leave brush or roller marks. Your contractor should be able to guide you in the right direction for this decision, which will depend on your home’s specifics.

C&M Painting: Best Exterior Home Painting in Southern, CT

Knowing the answers to these crucial questions will help you make your decision about which painting contractor in Milford, Woodbridge, Shelton, and nearby CT is best for your job. When you are getting house painting estimates, you will want to know what to expect before you choose the company for the job. C&M Painting is known as a company that far exceeds its clients’ expectations and produces the kind of quality work that allows the homes they paint to stand out from the rest. If you are looking for a top painting contractor that also specializes in power washing in New Haven or Fairfield County, contact us today at (203) 799-9584 to speak to one of our team members and find out how we can keep your home beautiful for years to come!