We have finally gotten organized so we can get our blog updated on a more timely basis. As we go forward you will see entries from myself, Michael Grabham, President and Andy Olson who does a lot of things for us. My promise to everyone is to provide some interesting (at least to some people) information about the finish work we do with our clients. Our clients include residentail builders, commercial general contractors and homeowners. Since we do work in Paint, Carpentry and Tile installation we see a very diverse customer base. With the diverse base comes some very interesting events and challenges that we are going to share with you.

We will also be sharing some insights we know are important to the homeowners and builders we work for. We will not be disclosing names of our clients but we will be able to describe for you the place and challenges we come across and some of our solutions. It would be great if everyone could comment on what "you" think on what we are or are not doing. Maybe you have a better idea or a different/new product that would make it easier for a certain challenge we have described. Let us know what you know and even if you think we did something you don't agree with.

In our business there are many correct ways to do things and many incorrect ways to do things, our goal is trying to do a project the best way for "that" project. And since every project is unique this brings many challenges for us to face. Which of course we enjoy immensly. Have an Amazing Day, Michael

Tags: tile | painting | carpentry

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Here's a few tips for getting started on a painting project. When we start a customer's project, these are some of the things we do.

Start Out Right

* You'll enjoy the job more if you get everything together at the start. Organize a tool station in the middle of the area you'll be working in. Gather together your paint, brushes, rollers, hammers, screwdrivers, plastic bags, plastic wrap, rags, paint can opener, and drop cloths.

Plan for a Day of Prep

* Don't try to get everything done in one day. Use the day before painting day to gather furniture in the center of the room, patch cracks and holes, put blue painter's tape around doors and windows, and cover wall and ceiling light fixtures (light bulbs removed, of course!) with large plastic bags.

Clear the Decks

* If you can, clear out all the furniture and accessories. Take everything off the walls. If you can't move everything out, place the furniture and lamps in the middle of the room and cover them with a good drop cloth. Be sure that you tape the cloth around the furniture. Then put a second cover of plastic or old sheet over everything.

Remove All Hardware

* It may seem easier to paint around door knobs or cabinet hinges, but unless you're a professional, very experienced painter, you're bound to get drips around. So carry around some zip top bags and remove all cabinet knobs and hinges, door knobs, light switch plates and outlet covers, and light fixtures. Place the pieces together in separate bags and clearly mark the contents and location (top left cabinet, bathroom door, etc) you took them from. This is a great time to clean the hardware! Put them back when you're done painting.

Don't Paint Over Problem Walls

* If your walls have holes or cracks, fix them before you start with the paint. Any home center or paint store has knowledgeable personnel to guide you to the best products for the job. Wide cracks and large holes can be "bridged" with fiberglass tape, spackle will fill small holes and cracks, and texturizing products are available to match your existing wall finish.

Tags: painting

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