Painting your home can be the easiest way to add high impact to your home renovation.

One of our clients recently bemoaned the state of her DIY renovation saying

“my entire house needs renovating, inside and out, and I just don’t know where to start!” 

Further discussions revealed that what she really needed was a painter!

Whether painting your own home or an investment property, the last thing you want is a painting headache.  So let’s have a look at the steps required for minimising those headaches and maximising the results, with a hassle free paint job.  

Step 1: Engage a painter

Do you honestly have the three essential ingredients for a professional looking result – time, energy and perfectionism?  If you answered “no” to one of these then your best solution is to engage a painter.

But how do you choose a reliable painter that is not going to cost you an arm and a leg?

Word of mouth is by far the best way to find the right painter for your home.  Can friends or family recommend someone they have used?  If they weren’t happy with a painter’s services they will certainly let you know!  If this isn’t possible then check your local paper, gumtree and don’t underestimate the power of facebook.

Step 2: Check credentials and experience

Avoid future hassles by receiving satisfactory answers to the following key questions:-

  • How long have you been in business? Peace of mind can come from knowing the contractor is experienced in his trade.
  • What is your registration number? Under the Building Services (Registration) Act 2011 a painter is required to be registered to carry out painting work valued at over $1000.  In WA, the Building Commission provides a list of all registered painters.
  • Do you have public liability insurance? This helps determine whether your painter and any hired workers are insured for injury and liability.
  • Can you provide references? Word of mouth and personal references are the best way to assess that previous clients were happy with the outcome.
  • Do you offer written guarantees of your work? It’s handy to have something in writing if the need arises to question the work.
  • Does your quote include preparation and clean up?

Step 3: Choose a colour scheme

Let the fun begin!

If choosing colours is not your forte, here are some tips to keep you from becoming overwhelmed with the seemingly infinite choices.

  • Choose wall colours to tone in with new or existing décor pieces such as paintings, rugs, wallpaper and fabrics.
  • It’s really important to match your underlying tones so make sure to take fabric, tile or wallpaper samples with you when shopping for your paint colours.
  • If you’re working with a print fabric, choose a coordinating wall colour from the background of the print.
  • Consider the natural light in a room.  It’s a good idea to use half strength paint in dark areas such as hallways and stronger tones in areas with a alot of natural light.
  • Use a high gloss, quarter strength dilution of your wall colour for internal doors and frames.  This will allow them to blend seamlessly with the rest of your room.

Dulux and Haymes have great websites for helping you get started on your colour selections.

Step 4: Communicate

Communication is the key when dealing with any contractor or tradesperson.  Painters are no different.

Give the painter a written description of the scope of work to be carried out when you meet him.  Physically show him the areas to be painted so that he can assess the amount of preparation work required.

Being clear about what you want means the painter doesn’t need to second guess anything and can just get on with the job he loves – painting.

In my last renovation, I invited four painters to give me a quotation.  I met each of them on site, gave them a printed copy of the scope of work and discussed areas requiring special attention.

I received all four written quotes back within 24 hours!  If you’ve ever been frustrated with unresponsive contractors and tradespeople, you will understand my delight in discovering that this method of communication actually works!

Here is an example of a simple quotation form you can use when choosing your painter.

Painting scope of work template

So have fun creating the new mood for your home in 2018.  If you get stuck, comment on facebook and we will be happy to help.

Julie