So it's time to paint the house and you are trying to decide if you should attempt it yourself and save the expense of hiring a professional painter or go ahead and spend the money to have it professionally painted. In this article we will look at what you will need if you decide to paint it yourself as well as what to look for if you decide to hire a professional to do it. So after much thought you have decided to do it yourself, lets look at what you will need to get started. First, you will need some basic tools and equipment to get started. You may want to write down everything you need before hand so that when you are ready to start you wont be delayed because you forgot something. The first thing you will need to do when painting an exterior of a house is to pressure wash it. Be certain to use a cleaning detergent that is formulated just for pressure washing. Most all pressure washers have a chemical injection device on it so that you can apply the cleaner directly to the surface. Be certain when using a pressure washer not to use too much pressure as this can damage the surface that you are cleaning. Second, you will need to decide how you want to apply the paint to the surface. There are three basic techniques that you could use, brush, roll or spray. Unless you have experience using a airless sprayer I would advise you to cross this one off of your list because you could end up doing far more harm than good with a sprayer. Next you will need to be able to reach whatever surface you are painting so you will need ladders, probably a extension ladder and also a step ladder. You will also need something to cover your shrubs and sidewalks so you will need some tarps or dropcloths. Last there are several small tools that you will need, a caulk gun, putty knife, scraper and of course a good paint brush. If you do not have some of these items such as ladders, pressure washer or an airless sprayer you can rent them at your local equipment rental store.

The number one priority when taking on this type of project is safety. Many people are seriously injured or killed each year by falls. Also, when moving ladders always be aware of where the power lines are at as this is another safety hazard you must look out for.

Last, you will need someone to help you. This is a large project and you will need some help with it. Since painting is very labor intensive, the more help you have the easier it will be.

If you decide to hire a professional, check with some of your neighbors, coworkers and friends and see if they have someone they used before they could recommend. This is usually the best method for finding a good painter. In addition you could call your local Chamber of Commerce, check the internet for local painting contractors or look in your local Yellow Pages.

Always get bids from three different painting companies, but be sure to compare apples to apples. Many companies will be much cheaper but use subpar material and cut corners where ever they can. Next, ask for proof of insurance, not only general liability but also workers comp insurance. Obtain at least three references and go and look at their work and also talk with the homeowner. Also, if you did not contact the local Better Business Bureau already, give them a call and find out if the company you are considering has had any complaints filed against them.

If you are going to paint your house yourself or hire a professional I believe that if you follow some of the guidelines that I have mentioned you should have very little trouble.

Copyright (c) 2008 Smoky Mountain Painting