Frequently Asked Questions
Everything homeowners typically ask us before starting a painting project.
Don’t see your question? Give us a call, we’re happy to answer.
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About Us
Where are you located and who do you serve?
We’re based in Central Iowa and we serve homeowners across the Des Moines metro and surrounding communities, including Des Moines, West Des Moines, Ankeny, Urbandale, Waukee, Clive, Johnston, Grimes, Norwalk, Altoona, Pleasant Hill, and Ames. Not sure if we serve your area? Give us a call.
Are you licensed and insured?
Yes. We carry general liability and workers’ compensation insurance, and we’re happy to provide certificates on request.
What is the CIP Certification Program?
The CIP Certification Program is our internal 8-week training program every painter completes before working solo on your home. It covers everything from safety and jobsite setup through advanced spraying and customer communication. Every painter on the crew is either CIP Certified or working toward certification under a certified crew lead.
Estimates & Pricing
Is your estimate really free?
Yes. Estimates are free and no-pressure. We visit your home, look at the space, ask what you’re hoping to accomplish, and follow up with a detailed written proposal.
How much does a paint job typically cost?
Cost depends on the scope of work, surface condition, product selection, and access. A single room might run a few hundred dollars; a whole-home interior or exterior repaint runs several thousand. The best way to get an accurate number is to request a free estimate, we’ll walk your home and give you a written proposal covering everything.
Do you offer written proposals?
Every project starts with a written proposal covering scope, prep, timeline, paint products, and price. Everything is in writing before we start.
Do you require a deposit?
We typically request a deposit to secure your spot on the schedule, with the balance due on completion. Specific terms are outlined in every proposal.
Scheduling & Timing
How far out are you scheduling?
Scheduling depends on the season. Interior work is generally available on a shorter timeline; exterior work fills up faster in spring and summer. During your estimate we’ll give you an honest lead time.
How long will my project take?
Single rooms typically take one to two days. Whole-home interior repaints run three to seven working days. Exterior repaints usually take three to seven days, weather permitting. Deck and fence staining is often one to three days. Your written proposal includes a specific timeline for your project.
What happens if it rains during my exterior project?
We watch the forecast closely and pause when weather requires it. We don’t paint exteriors in poor conditions, rushing an exterior in the wrong weather is one of the most common reasons a paint job fails. If weather affects your project, we’ll communicate the updated timeline.
Prep & Process
Do I need to move my furniture?
For interior work, we ask that you remove small, fragile, or valuable items, electronics, art, personal items. We handle moving larger furniture into the center of the room and covering it. If you’d prefer we not move certain pieces, let us know during the estimate.
Do you handle drywall repairs?
Yes. Minor drywall repair, nail pops, small holes, hairline cracks, is part of every interior project. For larger repairs we’ll flag them in the estimate.
What kind of prep do you actually do?
A great finish starts with prep. On interiors that includes masking, filling nail holes, sanding, spot priming, and repairing damage. On exteriors it includes washing, scraping loose paint, caulking, and priming bare wood. On decks and fences it means cleaning, sanding where needed, and letting the wood dry properly before we stain. Prep is the biggest single factor in how a finished project looks and how long it lasts.
Will you protect my landscaping?
Yes. Protecting plants, hardscape, and outdoor furniture is part of every exterior project. If plants need to be tied back, moved, or covered, that’s part of setup.
Paint & Products
What paint brands do you use?
We work primarily with Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore. Both offer excellent residential lines across interior, exterior, and specialty applications. If you have a specific brand or product in mind, we’re happy to accommodate.
Do you help pick colors?
We can offer input, but color selection is a personal choice. For homeowners who want more help, we can recommend a local color consultant.
What sheen or finish should I use?
Depends on the surface. Ceilings usually take a flat or matte, walls typically eggshell or satin, trim and doors semi-gloss or gloss. Exterior siding is usually satin; exterior trim is semi-gloss. We’ll recommend specific products during your estimate.
After the Job
Do you offer a warranty?
Yes. We stand behind our work and address any workmanship issues after completion. Specific warranty terms are included in your proposal.
What if I find a touch-up needed later?
Give us a call. If it’s a workmanship issue, we’ll come back and address it. If it’s normal wear or a scuff you’d like touched up, we’re happy to talk about it.
Will you leave leftover paint with me?
Yes. We label and leave any usable leftover paint with you at the end of the project, so you have it for touch-ups.
Still Have Questions?
We’re happy to answer anything specific about your project.
Reach out and we’ll get back to you within one business day.
