Painting is one of the most popular home improvement projects homeowners undertake, but it can be more difficult than you might think. Whether you’re planning an interior or exterior painting project, hiring a painting contractor will save a lot of time and energy in the long run.

Before you hire a painting contractor, there are some considerations that could help you decide which painting contractor is the best one for your needs.

How long has the contractor been in business? There can be a high turnover rate in the painting industry. Make sure to hire someone who has been operating for at least two to three years.

Are employees experiences painters? Make sure the painting contractor hires skilled workers. Ask what training or qualifications they have.

Does the painting contractor have insurance? It is absolutely critical that the painting contractor have all the necessary insurance. A reputable, licensed painting contractor will have coverage. Remember, it protects him, and any workers he may have on site, as well as you.

What kind of preparation work does the painting contractor do? A cheaper job will skimp on the prep work to cut corners. A good painting contractor will take the time to do everything the way it should be done. The workmanship will show in the end good or bad.

Can your painting contractor provide you a list of references? Once you have the references in hand, call them. You’d be surprised how many homeowners skip that part!

Can the painting contractorr make recommendations on what materials will work best for your project? A professional keeps up-to-date on the latest products and techniques. He or she will have suggestions for colors and finishes and be knowledgeable about the latest trends. Experience counts.

Make sure the painting contractor puts everything in writing. A professional painting contractor provides his, or her, customers with written contracts and specifications.

Will the painting contractor offer a maintenance program? Some will, it’s worth asking.

How much does the painting contractor charge? Getting the lowest price should not be your first consideration. You want to get someone with skill, experience, insurance, awareness of safety issues and good workers. That will not likely be the guy with the lowest bid. It doesn’t need to be the highest bid either. Just make sure not to hire on price alone. Look at the whole picture. Painting contractors operate on very tight profit margins. You will hear of homeowners who hired college students and were happy with the work. If the price seems too good to be true, however, it probably is.