FAQ

Q. What should I look for when hiring a painting contractor?

I would say the number one thing to look for is time in business. Painting is a very easy business to get into, especially in Montana. There a lot of painters out there with little to no experience. They are here today and gone tomorrow. Paints Well with Colors has been in business for almost 20 years. Although I am a Montana native, graduated from Billings West High 1987, I was living in Arizona when I started painting. In order be licensed in Arizona you must show years of experience, go to contractors school, and pass an in-depth test through the registrar of contractors, showing working knowledge of all paint related materials, proper application techniques, and business knowledge. I was a licensed painter in AZ for 5 years prior to returning to my home state of Montana. In my early years as a painter I was mentored by Doug Click, President of the PDAC (Painting and decorating contractors of America). I am confident there is no more knowledgeable painting contractor in the State of Montana than myself.

lso of great importance is employees. I believe in paying men a livable wage, not the least amount I can by with. My painters are all top notch, highly skilled, and experienced. Painters like this are hard to come by and I don't take them for granted. I make sure they are well compensated in the form of hourly wage, company paid medical care, and company contribution to retirement plans. I don't tolerate illegal drug use or any questionable behavior in my employees. I take great pride in my crew and you will understand why after working with them.

Q. How do I know you are licensed and insured?

You can call the MT dept of labor and industry to confirm. Unfortunately there website is not a good option as its often not up to date. My MT contractors registration number is 161522

Q. Can I leave my home while your painting crew works?

Absolutely, I have complete faith in the trustworthiness of my employees and would be happy to give unlimited references of previous clients upon request.

Q. What kind of paint do you use?

We primarily use Sherwin Williams but not exclusively. We use only to tier paint. Not contractor grade.

Q. Do you offer a warranty?

Yes, we provide a 2 year warranty. Written copy of warranty is available upon request.

Q. What is the best season to paint?

Summer is best for exterior although the min application requirement for exterior paint is 35 degrees. Interior is year round.

Q. What can I do to make the project go more smoothly?

We ask that the work area be generally clean, personal items removed and for exterior we also ask that trees bushes and other landscaping be trimmed away for house.

Q. Who will be there to answer my questions or to address any concerns I may have throughout the project?

Myself or my foreman will always be on the jobsite and available to answer any question or address any concern.

Q. Do you charge for estimates?

We always offer free estimates. You can call me personally to request a free estimate @ 406-530-1200

Q. How do you determine the amount you will charge for my painting project?

We take a lazer measurement of the entire area and then apply the applicable Per square foot or per linear foot price to those measurement. As part of the estimate you will receive a detailed breakdown of all charges.

Q. What do we do if you find dry rot?

If we find dry rot or any other necessary repairs outside of painting, we have a number of highly skilled contractors in every trade that we work closely with. We would happy to subcontract them to do the work prior to painting and include all work in one final bill.

Q. How long will it take to paint my house?

It depend on the size. Most houses, interior or exterior, take less than one week. Often times we can complete jobs in as little as 1-3 days.

Q. What hours do your crews work?

Our standard hours are Mon-Fri 8 AM to 5 PM. However during the long days of summer we regularly work later than 5:00.

Q. How will my personal property be protected from paint?

Protecting your property is a top priority. Prior to paint application the surrounding area is masked and tarped to protect from paint overspray or drips.

Q. What color should I choose?

Color is a very personal choice. I am happy to offer suggestions if you would like my help or I can refer a decorated/color consultant upon request.

Q. What are different paint sheens?

Today you have a lot of choices in sheens. These include, high-gloss, semi-gloss, satin, eggshell, matte, flat, low luster and more.

Q. What are the advantages/disadvantages of flat and lower sheen paints?

Flat and lower sheen paints reduce glare creating a more comfortable atmosphere. Flat paints are also excellent for hiding surface imperfections such as drywall repairs or weathered siding.

Q. What are the advantages/disadvantages of higher sheen paints?

Higher sheen paints tend to harden more that low sheen paints making them better for high traffic areas where you expect to be cleaning wall often. On doors and trim high sheen paints also offer the look many people prefer.

Q. When do I pay you?

Payment terms can vary depending on the size of the project. I most cases we ask for payment in full upon completion.

Q. What type of payments do you accept?

We use to accept credit cards but due to lack of interest, we no longer accept them. Cash or Check will be fine.