Bob's Custom Paint and Remodel

So, what steps do custom painters take when they perform a job? In another section of this site, we list the procedure that we consider to be "standard" for a truly professional, long-lasting paint job. We list them here again, as we feel it's very important that home-buyers have this information, so that they can ask their builder if the paint job that they are getting is truly a custom-quality job that is meant to last, or a lesser "builder-grade" installation.

There are steps in painting that must be followed for a long-lasting finish. Unfortunately, it looks as though these proven methods don't seem matter to anymore. The new world of "anyone can paint" is really nothing more than a big lie. Good builders know that the home-buyer trusts them as their builder to deliver a product they can depend on, with real quality. Most people will have one major investment throughout their lives, and that is their home. It is a shame that the large majority of the new, expensive custom homes sport paint jobs that don't even rate any better than track houses. Every home that is to be considered "custom" should be given a truly custom paint job. It's worth remembering that there is no real compromise for real quality, and in the long run, you do get what you pay for.

The basic procedure that we adhere to consists of the following:

Regardless of which company you end up selecting to perform your painting, at least be sure you are getting the quality that is consistent with an honest builder's reputation.

We welcome the opportunity to work with you in exceeding your expectations! Feel free to call us at (757)851-9618.

For all exterior wood : - TWO coats of oil-based primer

- Caulking
- TWO coats of top-line paint finish

The procedures outlined above are recognized as custom painting procedures for a top-notch paint job. Builders that adhere to them know that the homes they build will have the look that most homeowners are trusting them to give.

For all interior wood : - TWO coats of oil undercoater

- Sanding, puttying and caulking
- TWO coats of oil-based enamel (Sprayed Furniture Finish)

For interior walls : - TWO coats of wall primer

- Sand walls for over-sand from sheetrocker
- TWO coats of top-line finish
(These walls WILL be scrubbable)

- One coat of Minwax stain
- TWO coats of lacquer sanding sealer
- Sanding and puttying
- TWO coats of lacquer finish (Sprayed Furniture Finish)

All of the above includes a process of a major sweep for dust, as well as extensive cover-up of all glass, counters, door hinges, etc., which must be taped off for a custom finish.

If you are building a new house or are just simply buying a new older home, try and remember that the cost to paint prior to the move-in should always be considered first. The average builder has not shouldered this burden because of the intense decorating decisions and the actual cost of a real long-lasting paint job. Some decisions are based solely on competition and unfortunately this is often one of them (that is, if a builder feels that he can get away with a substandard paint job--or that the new homeowner may not notice--he may be inclined to cut costs in this area). If the luxurious beauty of a long-lasting paint job can’t be figured in before the move-in because of cost, know that the average homeowner will usually have to settle for an unprofessional, mediocre look for as long as they live in their new home for this very same reason. The average builder or homeowner who could not budget this cost in when there was no carpet/hardwood/tile floors or even blinds and curtains etc. will not even fathom the immense cost they have added by moving in with all their furniture as well as having to paint under these circumstances. This is why you get the builder-grade paint jobs, which are basically cheap primed walls/unpainted ceilings and low-grade trim work that were never meant to last. Many builders feel that the homeowner will paint later and unfortunately they are usually done very cheaply or not at all. Before you move in, try and remember that this is the time to do as much of this work as possible and if your builder does not offer this, remember that you will be the one that has to live with his decisions.

Skill. Experience. Integrity.