Tag: huntley

If you are buying a home, or moving into a new home, then nothing beats the look and feel of your home. Painitng your walls, gives you a clean, neat, and perfect Feeliing!

Moving to a new house? Most customers want new paint colors. And since you are moving you are asking about how Painting your house before moving in can happen.

Hi, I’m David With Dfranco Painting and Wallpaper in Huntley. We serve towns like Barrington, Elgin, Crystal Lake, Pingree Grove, St. Charles, and Bartlett. Today we are discussing a call we receive frequently – painting your house before moving in. We are here to see how we can help you love the space your in by helping with your interior house painting before moving

Scheduling your painting before moving in

One of the biggest obstacles that we hear from customers is can you get the painting done on a certain date. We would love to say yes to every single one. (Here is our link to schedule an estimate for you). It has been an extremely high success rate for us because of the amount of crews, people, and resources we have access to.

When are you closing? This is the biggest obstacle. Closing dates are not 100% for sure, so if there is a delay, it can wreak havoc on our schedule as well as yours. So the more notice you have the better.

Working around other contractors when we paint

The next biggest issue on paint jobs is working around other trades or contractors. Painting your home before you move in usually means we need to be quick cause you don’t have much time. So we are gonna ask you some questions that week absolutely do need to know before we start your interior painting;

• will you be doing any work to your cabinets?
• are you having new carpet or flooring installed or removed?
• is there going to be an electrician moving lights, outlets or switches?
• do we need to move furniture?
• do you want or take out any mirrors or vanities?

These questions affect when we can paint. If you are getting new floors, then we don’t want to paint until old floors are out. We have painted before new floors are installed- I just don’t recommend it – it can. lead to issues later (knick/dings in walls, scrapes on trim etc)

Are there holes for new lights, if so-you must fix those holes. It is better to paint after completing all other work so that you can make the mess, clean it up, and then paint.

Knowing your colors before you move in

I would say picking paint colors is the most difficult thing to figure out. What colors do you want to paint?

We have designers we use to help! Best of all these designers are free to you! It can be tricky if your bringing in items from another house, as they have a color or tone that has to be considered in their new location. We have done a few videos on popular colors, check them out!

Once you have colors selected it is easy for us to come in the house, cover the floors, and start painting.

Can you paint after moving in?

Yes of course you can! We can help with that as well. It may take a bit longer, as we have to cover everything or move items out of the way. Residential re-painting after you are in the home is the norm.

So if your moving in, moving out, repainting, or repairing- we can help with your house painting needs

You are getting ready to paint your house. On the way home you went to the paint store to get paint swatches of colors you like. To make sure you like the colors, you bought sample quarts and painted your walls. When the paint dries- What the Heck! The Paint does not match the swatch Colors!

Hey Everyone- David at Dfranco Painting and Wallpaper here in Huntley, IL. Helping you with your questions on painting and wallpaper. This question was also our problem last week. As we were painting a house in Huntley, Painting in Pingree grove and Painitng in Barrington, we had 3 separate jobs where the paint and paint swatch were off. So lets look at why and what you can do to make sure it does happen to you! We are takig a peek at the 2 brand we use the most, Sherwin Willliams and Benjamin Moore.

Reasons paint colors may be wrong- Benjamin Moore

Let’s start with Benjamin Moore. We do use this paint, but as needed or when requested. Our reasons have been cost, locations and issues with color. They have great paint and colors. We are just tired of dealing with issues that cost us time and money. So – we have found that:

• BM colors are printed. (most are) These are printed in different areas of the country. So with different printers come different colors. There doesn’t seem to be any standard color verification process to verify color from location to location, or from different runs/years. Which means you can have color 1 from 3 different printers. They are dispursed at dozens of different stores- giving you a variation in color form store to store.
• Paint bases and Paint tints change every 2 years or so. If the paint swatches have not been updated or you have old fand decks- the color may be different
• proprietary colors. Each paint company has colors they pride themselves on. These paints are made by using, a base and tints that other companies do not use. For example, if BEhr uses black tints and SHerwin uses black tint the colors should match. But if one of these do not use black but use other colors to get black- the paint color will never match.
• matching chips vs computer match. This gets to the paint swatches again- if a swatch is being used to make or have the paint matched too- at store A, but store B uses the computer formula- there will be a difference.

Problems with wrong colors – Sherwin Williams

By and far the most common problem with paint colors being wrong is older or outdated paint chips. Next would be name or color spelled wrong. Lastly, it is trying to make a competitors color.

There are certain colors, that just cannot be made from one brand to another. Using a swatch to verify the color you want is the best method to make sure this issue does not happen to you! Paint stores with experience and good reps will just tell you that up front. These people will let you know up front- it will not match or be off by “x” percent.

We have been using Sherwin for some time now and we have had very little (zero) issues with colors being wrong due to swatch or color matches. Im not 100% sure why, but they seem to be more systematized which helps reduce these issues taking human error out of the equation. AGAIN.. best way to make sure this does not happen is to have the paint swatch in hand use it to verify color you want.

Other top reasons paint colors do not match

Some of these reasons may be the same as above. We just want to make sure you know what we know to be better informed.

• To be 100% fair across the board- every paint maker will tell you color from swatch to paint can vary 1-3%.
• old paint swatches. Paints ae updated often. New tints, new base formulas from year to year change the coloration
• human error. Did you know that people with blue and brown eyes see color differently? With that in mind- your color may look different because of eye color!
• lighting affects colors. Different light makes color look different. Time of day the sun will shift color appearance. Fluorescent vs LED will make a difference.
• Reflection. As you paint, reflection will matter. If you have a lot of green trees outside your window, that green will refect in your home, affecting the color. Have you ever painted red? the red turns white paint colors pint because of reflection!
• Sheen. the sheen of paint will change how colors appear as well. (this is a issues with swatches more than anything else)

How to make sure your paint colors are correct.

Lets list this one out…

• give your painter a list of name and number of colors you want
• if you have paint swatches- take them to store or give them to the painter so the color can be matched
• make sure you have the most up to date color swatches
• hire a designer to do the work for you!

HAve other questions about painting- let us know how we can help!

As we were working last week doing a wallpaper installation, we received a call asking for a price to install wallpaper in a bathroom. The customer asked us several questions about our pricing. We in turn had to ask the customer a few questions such as:

• What are the dimensions of the bathroom?
• Is the room painted or does it have wallpaper needing to be removed?
• Have you selected a wallpaper for the room yet?
• What type of wallpaper has been selected? (Grasscloth, self stick, commercial)

The answer we received for 3 of these questions was “we are not sure”. Do the size of the room and the wallpaper being installed really matter to give an estimated cost to install wallpaper? Yes, it does.

• Wallpapers all require some prep work.
• Some call for specialized primers to be used prior to installation. 
• Self Stick wallpapers have issues with paint that are low VOC
• There are different requirements for the type of adhesive or glue to be used.
• Depending on the wallpaper it will take longer to install as various wallpapers require them to be wet (pasted with glue) to allow the glue to set up time prior to installation.
• The cost of wallpaper in the Chicago area can vary also depending on the location, i.e. downtown will be more due to travel, parking building restrictions etc.

How do I know how much wallpaper I need?

This is the question that comes up at every wallpaper installation and estimate. To find out we will:

• mesure each wall, ignoring any openings
• verify the paper be ing used and how much paper is on a roll
• look at the repeat if any
• figure out the width of each panel
• determine how may pices we can get from each rolls with the needed waste and repeat

So…what is the cost to install wallpaper in the Chicago area?

There are some wallpaper installations that are fairly simple to estimate. And without getting into too many details which may just really bore you, expect to pay about $680 to do an installation. There are always fixed costs such as:

• transportation
• tools used
• primers used
• materials to apply primers and adhesives
• workman’s comp
• standard insurance policy
• and of course taxes.

This may not answer all of your questions regarding cost to install wallpaper for your home or business, but it is a start as to what we need to know what is the minimum cost for an installation in the Chicago area.

Give us a call to schedule an estimate or send us a text to 847-553-1726. We will be glad to help!

In the world of home improvement, there exists an often underestimated hero and villian: the oak trim. Oak trim, with its classic charm and timeless appeal, has the power to elevate the aesthetics of any living space or make it look outdated or old. Transforming this type of wood into a modernn and updated look requires the right knowledge, patience, the right tools and materials.

Lets take a look at understanding why it costs so much to Paint Oak Trim, the step-by-step process, the best materials to use, potential issues, and what you can expect to pay for this service in the Huntley, Pingree Grove, Elgin area.

The Cost to Paint Oak Trim

The journey begins with a question that often puzzles homeowners: Why does it cost so much to paint oak trim? The answer lies in the inherent challenges of working with oak. Oak is a dense and porous wood, which makes it absorbent and resistant to paint. Achieving a smooth, even finish requires expertise, time, and the right producs to get that amazing finish our customers are looking for.

How to Paint Oak trim – the Step-by-Step Process

1. Preparation: Our old Scout Master used. to say “Proper preparation prevents piss poor results”. So this starts with a plan. Where will you start? How much time do you have to get it done? Like it or not preparation includes cleaning the trim, sanding it to remove any imperfections, and filling in gaps or holes. This step sets the stage for a flawless finish
2. Masking! you are going to need to mask the floor and walls (of your not painting the walls) so the caulk, nail hole filler and primer/paint do not get on the surrounding areas.

1. Filling and caulking! When you have wood or oak trim, odds are no one caulked anything or filled nal holes. hat means you have to do it. Caulking will be the easier step. Filling the nail holes is another matter. This is usually a 2 stap rpcess and snading between coats as well as after the 2nd coat of filler has been applied.
2. Priming: Now apply a high-quality primer. Oak has alot of grain in it- so you are going to need to either fill that grain or not stress about seeing verby single vein in that wood. ( we hate the veining) When you prime with a sprayer- you will see these lines. If using a brush and roller you can fill in these lines to hise some of the graining. Primer is a crucial step as it will seal the wood, prevents tannin bleed (common in oak), and ensures better adhesion for the paint.
3. Painting: Armed with brushes or sprayers, you can start to paint. Thin, even coats are essential to prevent drips and achieve a professional look. Two or more coats may be needed for complete coverage.

1. Drying: Patience is required as the hero waits for each coat to dry. Rushing this step can lead to imperfections. Primer alone can take 4-12 hours to fully cure- dont rush it!
2. Finishing: Once the paint is dry, a clear topcoat can be applied for added durability and a glossy finish.

The Best Paint for Painting Oak Trim

To successfully conquer this project, it’s essential to have the right tools and materials. Here are some recommendations:

• Quality Paint: Invest in premium paint that’s suitable for trim, such as a semi-gloss or high-gloss finish. We are a huge fan of Sherwin Williams Pro classic, it drues fast and looks great. Other paints are Emerald Urathanne trim paint. Uratahnes are avalable from other companies such as Benjamin Moore- BUT- they tae a long time to dry and cure- plus I think they smell more.

• Primer: Choose a high-quality primer specifically designed for oak or other hardwoods.
• Brushes and Rollers: Quality brushes and rollers ensure a smooth application.
• Sandpaper: Various grits of sandpaper for sanding the wood and achieving a smooth surface.
• Drop Cloths and Painter’s Tape: Protect your surroundings from paint splatter.

Challenges Along the Way: Issues with Painting Oak Trim

Oak trim presents its fair share of challenges, including:

1. Tannin Bleed: As mentioned earlier, oak is prone to tannin bleed, which can cause discoloration. Proper priming is key to preventing this issue.
2. Wood Grain: The distinct grain pattern of oak can be challenging to cover entirely, even with multiple coats of paint.
3. Cracking and Peeling: If the wood wasn’t properly prepared, the paint may crack or peel over time.
4. Time-Consuming: The hero’s journey of painting oak trim demands time and patience. Rushing can lead to unsatisfactory results.

The Reward: What to Expect to Pay in Chicagoland

In the Chicagoland area, the cost of painting oak trim can vary depending on several factors, including the size of the project, the condition of the trim, and the quality of materials used. On average, you can expect to pay between $2 to $5 per linear foot for professional painting services. This cost typically includes labor, materials, and preparation.

Remember that investing in professional services ensures a high-quality finish and saves you from potential DIY pitfalls.

Painting Oak is like other endeavors of home improvement- it take your longer than you exocet and costs you more than you think it will. While it may cost more than you initially expect, the transformation of your space and the timeless beauty of painted oak trim make it a worthwhile adventure. Equip yourself with the right tools, materials, and experts, and your journey will lead to a home that radiates charm and elegance for years to come.

If you have questions- let s know, we ar ehere to help or here to take this project off your hands so you can do something else you may enjoy more!

This is the time of year that most people are frustrated with just about everything. We get a call because the family is coming to stay for the holiday and they need “it” painted before they get here.

As much as we would love to fit everyone in the schedule and give everyone what they want for Christmas, odd is it may not happen. So save up those lists, put the decorations away then give us a call when we are typically slower (Jan-Mar) and we can really help each other out.

We look forward to your call and find out how we may be able to help you.

As Fall approaches, the most popular call we are receiving is about doing something with Kitchen cabinets.  Customers are tired of the honey oak stained cabinets, tired of the white cabinets that came with the house or want their pantry or island to stand out from the rest of their room.  What are your options?

1st question is, What do you want? The last 2 customers we had were looking to save money in remodeling their kitchen. There was nothing wrong with their cabinets, so the decision was made to refinish oak cabinets to a white glazed look, new tile backsplash, and granite counters. This was 50% cheaper than tearing out a Kitchen and getting all new.

Do you have an island that you want to have a distinct look from the rest of your kitchen? Maybe you have a pantry unit that you would like to make stand out? This can easily be done as a solid color, distressed finish, or restained to another wood color.

We are using ML Campbell industrial wood finishing systems. This is a greenguard certified product. They are low VOC. They are non-yellowing, unlike oil-based products. They are the highest rated to withstand kitchen substances such as juices, vinegar, ketchup, coffee, boiling water, nail polish, naphtha, alcohol, wine, gasoline, TSP, and many more.

Give us a call to schedule a free estimate. Pass this on to a friend to be part of our growing referral program.

I was asked this question this week during an estimate walkthrough. Who are you, why should I hire you, why should I trust you, how do I know you will do what you say, are you gonna do what the last guy did?

We are D’franco Painting and Decorating. We have come from a part-time hobby to 2 friends working together for Dfranco Inc. We have Taken over A Painted wall. We have bought The Finishing Touches inc. We are still looking to expand. In an economy of payoffs, our customers are on a waiting list. We have grown every single year in business. We never stop to learn.

Are you getting estimates from painters that are insured?

Is the person you are considering an out of work painter from another company working for cash? If so who will pay for the paint on the carpet- replace the new sink he just cleaned is tools out it an ruined the finish off?

What kind of references did you get? Homeowner? Businesses? Other contractors? Decorators? Realtors? We give them all to you, it’s not Aunt Jenny giving you the thumbs up to us.

How much does the contract tell you? It should spell out everything, does it?

You may pay a bit more but you can’t expect a Lexus at a Chevy Dealer.