With some home services, it does not much matter whom you hire; the job gets done all the same (septic pumping comes to mind!). Sometimes, however, the choice you take makes a tremendous difference to the appearance and health of your home. The exterior house painter you choose for your D.C. area home falls into the second category. The right painting contractor will leave you with a smile on your face for years to come, while the wrong one leaves you with lasting regret.

How can you ensure you get the right exterior painting company for your home? The key is in taking the time to perform two stages of research. While it might feel like a hassle now, it pays off for years to come. Once you have found a house painter you trust, you never have to repeat the process!

Research Stage 1: Reviews and Recommendations

Finding an exterior house painter begins with asking the right questions in the right places. First, talk to people you know and trust: neighbors, family, friends, and coworkers. Ask them whom they have worked with, and what their experiences were like. This kind of research may take a bit longer than searching for reviews on your phone or computer, but it yields better results, since you know the people you are hearing from.

That said, don't ignore the online tools either. Do a quick search and identify who are the painting companies nearest you. Then, use review tools like Google reviews, Yelp, Homeadvisor, and Angie's list. What you see there can also help you narrow down whom you want to contact in stage 2.

Research Stage 2: Estimate and Interview

Once you have identified 3 or 4 house painters to look further into, contact them to arrange an estimate. This should be free and not entail any commitment. While the cost estimate they provide you is important, this step gives you something even more helpful: a chance to get to know the company.

At this point, every interaction you have with the painting contractor gives you clues as to their level of professionalism and customer service. Look for the following items:

• Proactive, prompt, polite communication
• Timeliness
• Professional appearance (tidy clothing, company car, company letterhead)
• Knowledgeable
• Willing to provide proof of state licensure, liability insurance and worker's compensation insurance
• A guarantee on their work

In addition to these things, there are some intangible factors to consider. How do you feel when working with the company? Would you be comfortable with them in and around your home?

A Closer Look at the House Painter's Estimate

Finally, when you compare the exterior house painting estimates, look beyond the price to see the true value. What level of surface preparation will they perform? How many coats of paint will they apply? What specific surfaces are included or excluded?

Be skeptical of a painter who makes big promises but will not commit them to writing.

Williams Professional Painting

As you examine your options for exterior house painters in Northern Virginia or the Washington, D.C. area, we would be honored if you would consider Williams Professional Painting. For more than 40 years, we have been serving the capital region, earning a reputation for exceptional quality and excellent customer service. Give us a call: you won't be sorry you did!