I had a phone call a few weeks ago from an un-happy customer asking me if I would take a look at some recent work, a so-called painter and decorator had carried out for this customer.
To my amazement the work that was carried out was shocking, the exterior render and paintwork was cracking and peeling. My first thoughts were they never prepared both the render and the woodwork.
Having now paid these flyby-nights a considerable amount of money this customer has to now folk once again.
We had to start all over again preparing all areas in the correct way.
Cutting out the cracks, filling with a exterior filler (Toupret) for the render and a 2 pack filler for the woodwork, We then sanded all areas down to form a smooth finish.
We then applied a primer coat to all woodwork followed by 2-oil based exterior undercoats, and 1 coat of exterior gloss finish (Dulux weathershield).
The render was primed in certain areas followed by 2 full coats of Sandtex masonry paint. We updated the customer on every process so they felt confident in our works and our procedures.
The customer was very pleased with the outcome and offered to add a review for us, also adding that they would recommend us to family and friends
Please be warned people that there are many cowboys out there who claim they are painters and decorators and they will only cost you money in the long run.
If you own a property then you need to maintain it right, skimping on the painting and decorating is a false economy.
Here is a List to do to avoid getting had over.
- Get a written quote detailing the work to be done
- Ask for references (to prove they are capable of doing the job)
- Ask to see some relevant qualifications, or are they a member of a trade organisation (check out if they are)
- Make sure you have an address for the company so they are accountable for what they do
- Keep a close eye on the work in progress and make sure it is up to scratch
- Always check the work before you pay up
- Speak up if you are not happy
- Never employ someone who says they can start tomorrow, if a painter/decorator are good at your job they should be busy
- Call RM Décor Solutions for free advice and a fee no obligation quotation