frequently asked questions
What areas do we service?
We service Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs, Lower North Shore, and Inner West
What paints do we use?
As our work is guaranteed by applicable Consumer Laws and Product Warranties we use only premium or professional grade products. Our preferred products are the Dulux range.
Do I have to buy the paint?
Normally it is not advisable. As licenced tradesmen we have access to a range of products you cannot buy and at prices not available to you. Unless stated otherwise the Quote will include all materials.
Who or what is a Licenced tradesman?
The NSW Dept of Fair Trading protects consumers by issuing licences to tradesman who are qualified to undertake work above the value of $300. This includes all building trades and painters are no exception. Any licenced tradesman coming into your home should have a licence and you should ask to see it. To ensure your tradesman’s credentials are current, you can check their bonafides on the Department of Fair Trading website.
How much will my project cost?
We will visit you on site and discuss the range of options tailored to your needs. Before commencing any work, we will furnish you with a written Quotation, by email or in person. This will outline:
- the scope of the work,
- the work methods and/ or products involved
- the estimated duration of the work
- the likely commencement date
- the price
Once accepted this then becomes the agreement between you and us. Sometimes the Quotation will have an Exclusion. Sometimes unforeseen things can occur. This is known as a Variation.
What is an Exclusion?
An exclusion is something which is specified as not to be painted. For example a project may have a garden wall which will be built sometime after the site has been visited and when the work commences. Or a bathroom may have future tiling work to be undertaken. eg The Quotation may say something like “all ceilings and walls, excludes skirting boards”.
What is a Variation?
A Variation is something that occurs after the original quoted price is agreed. This may or may not be before the commencement of the work. For example, you may realise after walls have been painted that you should now also get the skirting boards done. This is despite them being excluded from the original scope of work. Sometimes you may also decide to add another room or doors to a scope of work. Another example is that timbers may initially appear sound but can be found to be rotten and not worthy of painting. In circumstances like these we are open and transparent and discuss your best interests. Once discussed you will be furnished with a written Variation which outlines any change and any additional cost. Minor things are often undertaken at no additional cost to you.
You do high end exacting architectural work, are you expensive?
We provide a higher quality finish by following traditional trade practices and using quality paints. We aim to provide an honest and reliable service that we believe offers the best value for money to our customers. Quotations for painting work can vary significantly and usually differ due to some of the following factors:
Preparation is a key area where compromises can be made. Shortcuts can be hidden under top coats and only become obvious over time when the top coats fail. Simple things such as dusting or washing down surfaces, if not undertaken, will cause expensive top coats to fail over time.
Inferior coatings. As in life, with paint, you get what you pay for. Cheap coatings have less colour pigment, less binder and are thinner. Consequently they do not look as good and do not last as long.
Unlicensed painters. Sometimes the only person in a company with a licence is the person who does the quote and collects the money. This is perfectly legal, but you have no control over who is sent to do your work. Obviously unlicenced or less skilled workers are cheaper than us.
What colours should I use?
If you are uncertain about which colours to use in your house we can make recommendations and assist you in this process. Our experience in a large number of homes along with our painting and finishing work for the film and television industry provide us with the experience to help you make the right choice.
Do I need to know what colours I am using before the job commences?
No. Most domestic work involves a degree of preparation, patching and undercoating. This obviously takes time and we will advise you in advance when colour choices have to be finalised.
Does my colour choice affect the price?
In most cases no. For most domestic projects, wall paints are bought in large quantities in white, pastel or soft shades and these are tinted for little charge at the point of sale. Intense colours such as reds are more expensive, and often require additional coats along with coloured undercoats. If a large variety of colours and finishes are required this will obviously add to the cost, however in most cases intense colours are bought in small quantities for such things as doors or a one off feature wall. Therefore, their affect on the overall price of a job is minimal.
Can you repair my damaged ceilings, walls or woodwork ?
Yes we can. “Making good” and repairing defects prior to painting is vital to get the best finish. Particularly with older houses this part of the job is the most time consuming and the one that is most often neglected in cheaper quotes. Virtually every paint job will require some repairs, these are normally included in the price. We recommend inspecting all surfaces to be painted at the time of the quotation so a decision can be made as to what level of repair is necessary. A careful inspection with a painter can also reveal any building issues, such as roof leaks or damp problems which should be fixed prior to painting.