by Jeff Sommers, ESP Painting, Inc.
Let’s face it – many of us have watched our household budgets shrink over the last two years. Painting is one of the quickest, least expensive ways to update your space. So you buy some paint in a color you can’t resist, some rollers and masking tape, and maybe borrow a ladder from a neighbor. You say to yourself or your significant other: “I can do this!” “This is going to be fun!” “We are saving so much money!” You turn on some tunes and attack your walls. Then something goes wrong. For whatever reason, you are unable to finish the project as you pictured, and now you have a half-painted home that you are wondering how it will ever get done.
At ESP, we are passionate about painting. Of course, our preference would be for you to hire us. But even if you don’t, everybody deserves a beautiful home. Here are some things to consider before you begin your endeavor:
Do I have the skills and expertise?
Would you fix your car’s transmission, or install a toilet? If you know you have the skills and expertise to do these things, of course you would! But if you don’t have the know-how needed, wouldn’t you rather do what you do best and use the money you’ve earned to pay a professional and have it done right the first time?
Do I have enough time?
Many of our calls are from homeowners who just can’t seem to finish the project they’ve started. Whether they’ve run out of time or enthusiasm, 1 in 5 DIYers calls professionals to finish their project. Being realistic about the time involved will allow you to schedule your project accordingly and give yourself the highest quality finished product without cutting corners. Plus, you’re less likely to injure yourself if you aren’t rushing to finish! (Most ladder accidents are from 2 to 6 foot step ladders.)
Do I have the right tools?
Most homeowners don’t have all the tools they would need to complete a DIY project. If you do, or can borrow from a friend or neighbor, and the tools are in good working condition – great! Purchasing tools for a one-time project can be costly, and then you have to store them or sell them at a deep discount when your project is finished. Professionals purchase, store, and regularly inspect the tools they need to do their job, so you don’t have to.
Anybody can DIY, but a skilled craftsman can safely complete your project in half the time and deliver high quality results! It never hurts to give us a call to price out your project.
503.372.7981
