1. PUMPKIN ORANGE

Even with a delicious color, sometimes a little goes a long way. A whole room of orange might be overwhelming, but a pop of color can add life to an otherwise neutral room. If you don’t have an appropriate wall, consider painting the inside of a bookshelf or adding an accent square to frame a favorite piece of art.

Image:  Design Glory

2. BARK BROWN

This light brown reminds us of toasted marshmallows, warm sweaters, and evenings by the fire in a cozy cabin. Bonus: it pairs well with other subtle hues as well as vibrant colors and patterns you can change to fit the season (or your mood).

Image: Homedit

3. DENIM BLUE

Blue may not be the first color you think of for fall, but—like your favorite pair of faded jeans—it’s always comfortable. And—like your jeans—it goes with pretty much everything. What could be cozier than that?

Image:  Country Living

4. SAGE GREEN

Not the bright green of spring; a softer, dustier tone that soothes while it whispers the promise of new growth to come next year. This is not an in-your-face green; it acts as a neutral backdrop for anything you want to pair with it.

Image: DIYPaintingTips.com

5. MUSTARD YELLOW

A perennial favorite, mustard yellow made our summer list of colors, too—which only proves that this color will look great in every season. Try it on a ceiling paired with white walls (like our inspiration photo), add a splash of sunlight to an accent wall, or go for it and paint a whole room.

Image: HGTV

Looking for help with your next home design project? Our ProTek Painting Services Team is safely serving Middle Tennessee right now, and we’d love to help! Reach out for your consultation and estimate today.

The post 5 Colors You’ll Fall For This Season appeared first on ProTek Professional Painting Services.

This year, one fall shade that’s especially hot is the color green. From forest green to moss and everything in between, green is the fall paint shade you should consider for your next room refresh. These amazing colors will work in your bathroom, bedroom, living room, and more. Which of these shades of green is calling your name?

LIGHT GREENS

The brightest and lightest shades of green may remind you of spring. But they can actually bring cheeriness and warmth to your home year-round! These shades look especially great in bedrooms, bathrooms, and nurseries. Yet they can be used anywhere that you want to add a soft uplifting touch to your space.

Shades to try: Sherwin Williams Clary Sage and Benjamin Moore Limesicle

DARK GREENS

The perfect dark green shade will instantly bring a dose of moodiness and sophistication to your space. When choosing a dark green, think rich, luxurious tones. Then, compliment them with lighter accents like whites, gold, and wood. We especially love these dark green tones in dining rooms, living rooms, and as an accent color in the kitchen. Here are a few of our favorite examples.

Shades to try: Benjamin Moore Hunter Green and Farrow & Ball Green Smoke

Feeling inspired by this fall paint shade? Ready to give your space a refresh? Reach out to our ProTek Painting Services team to see how we can help with your next project!

The post These Must-Have Greens Are the Perfect Fall Paint Shade appeared first on ProTek Professional Painting Services.

While for heavy-duty renovation projects we always recommend reaching out to a team of experts for help, you can definitely start the work on your own with research online. The digital age has provided so many resources to help you decide on what you want to do, how to use color and design in your home without going over budget. Here are a few of our favorite websites and tools for gathering ideas and inspiration to get you started on your next home design project!

Get inspiration:

The first step of any home renovation project should always be gathering inspiration. This will help you to accurately shape your vision, and decide your budget and what type of help you’ll need. There is a whole slew of resources online for gathering inspiration on color, design, and more! A few of our favorites? Start with our ProTek blog right here for budget-friendly tips and painting and design tricks. Then be sure to check out other popular blogs and resources like Pinterest, Apartment Therapy, HGTV, and Houzz to round out your vision.

Start Planning:

After you’ve put together your design vision, it’s time to start planning how you’ll execute it and the exact tools you’ll need to get started! For more in-depth renovation projects, it’s always good to connect with a licensed and insured painter or contractor who can help execute the work. (You can request a consultation from our team right here.) For the rest of your planning needs, try Wayfair’s 3D Room Planner, the Pantone Studio App (for iOS only), and the Magicplan app for laying out your floorplan.

Tools for the process:

You’ve gathered your inspiration and you’ve done your planning. Now it’s time to execute your renovation! You can find a host of information on painting tools on our blog right here. We also love the Sherwin Williams website which has a ton of helpful videos from staining concrete to exterior painting tips. There are also plenty of helpful apps like the Photo Measures app that can be used as a reliable tool mid-project.

—

Want to get started with your home project but need a little help? Gather ideas and make your plan, then reach out to our ProTek Painting Services Team! We have decades of experience and are licensed and insured so you are covered for your next home renovation project. We can’t wait to hear from you!

The post How To Plan Out The Perfect Home Renovation Project Online appeared first on ProTek Professional Painting Services.

If you’re looking to do something fun and memorable to do but also want to stay socially distanced, we have the list for you! From enjoying the great outdoors to finally tackling your home design projects, here are 5 COVID-approved things to do in Williamson County this fall.

Head to the drive-in theater.

Just in time for 2020, Franklin has introduced a brand new, drive-in theater! Located behind Rolling Hills Community Church off of Columbia Avenue, The Field at Franklin is now screening beloved classics and family favorites. They will also occasionally hosting musical events and more! The suggested price for movie nights is $35 per car. You can find the schedule and more information at https://franklindrive-in.com.

Go camping in the great outdoors.

Autumn is the perfect time to get out of the house and spend time in nature with your loved ones! Pick up a roomy tent (or pack the RV if you have one!) Then head to a campground nearby or take your adventure on the road. The choice is up to you. This website has a great list of campground options in Williamson County and the surrounding areas.

Tackle that home painting project

You knew we would add this to the list, right? If you’re staying home more often than usual, why not take on the house projects you’ve been putting off all year? As the weather cools down, fall is a great time to paint your house exterior, stain your fence, or even give your indoor living areas a whole new color scheme. Whether you’re in Franklin, Brentwood, Spring Hill, or beyond, our ProTek team is ready to serve you, with a fully customized quote for the job at hand.

Visit Arrington Vineyard

Year-round, Arrington Vineyard continues to be an amazing place to relax and unwind for families and date nights alike. Bring a picnic lunch, try a wine tasting, or catch a sunset if you can. Visiting Arrington is a great way to stay socially distanced, while still enjoying the experience of eating out. This fall, Arrington is operating at a limited capacity, so be sure to check their website before you arrive.

Embrace and enjoy your outdoor space

Finally, if you’re staying home, you might as well do it in style! While the summer heat and bugs can be stifling, September -November are great months to finally get to enjoy your outdoor space. Whether you’ve decided to stain your deck or stock up on brand new patio furniture, why not spend a little more time with your family or a few close friends outside? Try turning off the TV, grabbing a beverage, and enjoying your neighborhood with a little outdoor living!

—

So there you have it! 5 great ways to have fun with your family or friends in Williamson County or Middle Tennessee this fall. Which of these activities are YOU excited to try?

The post 5 Ways To Have Fun This Fall In Williamson County appeared first on ProTek Professional Painting Services.

For spring and summer 2020, we’ve rounded up 5 essential house projects that are more than worth your time and money. Our ProTek Professional Painting team serves Middle Tennessee including Franklin, Spring Hill, Nashville, and more. Would you like a free consultation for your next project? Reach out to us today!

Refresh A Room With Paint

You had to know this would be our #1! If you’re on a tight budget or short on time, a fresh coat of paint in your home will still do wonders for your space. Go light and bright to make your home feel more spacious, or bold and daring to show off your unique style. The sky really is the limit. For some color scheme inspiration to get you started, check out some of our latest blog posts here and here.

Give Your Fence A Fresh Look

When someone mentions curb appeal, your mind probably jumps to the color of your home, the flowers in your flowerbed, or maybe even the nice wreath on your door. But one factor of curb appeal that lots of people tend to miss? The condition of your fencing! Not only do fences mark your property lines, but they can also do double duty to beautify your space. Painting, staining, or sealing your fence will be well worth the time and effort, whether you tackle the job yourself or hire a professional.

Stain Your Deck

Homeowners often tend to skip out on regular care and upkeep for their decks and patios. This can lead to dangerous decay. Don’t let your deck fade, split, or rot! Early summer is the perfect time to sand, stain, and protect your outdoor structures so that you can enjoy them safely for the year to come. Don’t skip out on this important aspect of your home’s maintenance.

Reimagine Your Home’s Exterior

Have you ever wished your house was a different shade? Could your current house exterior use a little sprucing up? This is an excellent time to tackle a larger scale project like repainting your home! Whether your house is stucco, brick, or any other material, our ProTek team would be more than happy to work with you on your vision through a free consultation.

Schedule A Pressure Wash

If the exterior of your home needs a refresh but not a full paint job, look no further than a pressure wash. Pressure washing provides a quick and easy way to remove dirt and residue from the elements, and instantly restore your home’s prime curb appeal. Pressure washers can be purchased or rented from your local home improvement store. You can also hire a local expert to help you tackle the job. (We recommend hiring help for multi-story homes.)

Focus on Landscaping and Outdoor Decor

As the weather warms up, you’ll probably spend a lot more time outdoors. So why not bring the comfort and beauty of home along with you? Choose some comfortable waterproof seating that expresses your family’s unique style. Select some plants, flowers, outdoor rugs, or even string lights to add warmth and depth to your home’s outdoor areas. Then, kick your feet up and enjoy!

So there you have it! These are just five easy ways to inject a dose of new life into your home this summer. Which of these house projects would you most like to tackle? And do you have any additional ones you would add to the list?

Are you in Middle Tennessee and need a free quote for your next home improvement project? Contact our ProTek Painting Services team!

The post Staying Home? These 5 House Projects Are Worth Your Time appeared first on ProTek Professional Painting Services.

Do you have any house projects you’re hoping to tackle this spring? If a new paint job is one of them, then you’re in the right spot. Here 6 paint colors that declare spring is here to get your creative ideas flowing.

Need help bringing your design vision to life this spring? Our team is licensed, certified, and ready to help you tackle your next home project, no matter how big or small! Find out all about our Protek Professional Painting Services Team right here.

1. Explore an unexpected blush tone

Pink isn’t just for baby nurseries anymore! Shades of pink actually act as a surprisingly calm neutral in bedrooms, bathrooms, and even living rooms. If you’re new to the pink trend, try one with beige undertones, like Benjamin Moore Melted Ice Cream. 

2. Choose a sliver of silver

The right shade of silver paint can make your space feel shiny, new, and oh so fresh. If you’re looking for the perfect crisp and cool tone for the rooms in your home, the right shade of silver can be incredibly versatile. One of our favorites picks? Try Silver Strand by Sherwin Williams.

3. Choose a bright, powdery blue

Not afraid to add a little color? Forget the accent wall and paint an entire room with a bright, powdery blue shade that will bring a smile to your face. We love one like Benjamin Moore, Spirit in the Sky, which reminds us of blue skies on a clear summer day. Color perfection.

4. Dive into Beige

Do you tend to prefer a more classic look? You can never go wrong with a timeless beige, especially in the spring! For a color that makes your home feel calm, clean, and collected, try out Benjamin Moore in Balboa Mist. 

5. Go for the green

Everything turns green again in the spring! So, of course, we had to show off a great green shade that works well in kitchens, bedrooms, and even as an accent color! Behr Secret Meadow paint leaves just the right amount of drama without feeling overwhelming in your space. Add a classic white trim to really make the look pop.

6. Bring the sunshine in

Finally, we couldn’t end the list without a sunshiney yellow that epitomizes all things spring. The right yellow can be a great color for kitchens, bedrooms, and even in your main living area! Golden Straw from Benjamin Moore is a shade that feels particularly fresh for 2020.

Which of these spring paint color ideas are your favorites? We’d love to hear from you over on our Facebook or Instagram accounts!

The post 6 Paint Colors That Declare Spring Is Here appeared first on ProTek Professional Painting Services.

For most paint jobs, brushes are a necessity. They’re able to reach into tight corners, cut along the trim, and give you the cleanest result. But not all brushes are created equal. Here are 5 of the most popular paintbrush types and exactly how to find the right paintbrush for the job.  

Looking for professional help on your next paint project in Middle Tennessee? Get your free consultation from our ProTek team today!

1. Hog/animal bristle brush

All animal bristles have naturally flagged tips (think split ends), which hold oil paint in the brush’s edge and release it throughout the stroke instead of all at first contact. The black China bristle seen here is durable and is best for coating rough surfaces, like siding and decks.

2. Angular sash brush

Whenever you’re working with paneled doors, furniture, cabinets, trim, or anywhere that you’re painting close to another surface, you’ll always want to use an angular sash brush. These angular sash brushes are also called cutting brushes, and they make it incredibly easy for you to paint a clean line.  

3. Flat trim brush

Do you have a really small surface to paint? Look for a great flat trim brush! These brushes are typically 2-3 inches wide and give you a great amount of control when you’re painting. When you’ve got a small, narrow area to cover, reach for a flat trim brush.

4. Oval sash brush

Similar to flat brushes, oval brushes can be used anywhere, but they work best on flat surfaces! These brushes great for touching up small, narrow areas, and are used most often with oil-based paints.

5. Rollers

For large, flat surface areas like walls and ceilings, paint rollers will help you get the job done in about half the amount of time it would take with a paintbrush. If your surface is fairly rough, use the long naps. Short nap rollers work best on smooth surfaces. Textured rollers, which are best used on large surfaces, are designed for texture-painting that specific surface. The foam covers of these kinds of rollers have different patterns that will be reflected onto the surface that you are painting. This roller can give the effect of metal, wood, stone, etc. on different kinds of surfaces.

So which brush or roller type is right for your next paint job? Happy painting!

The post How To Find The Right Paintbrush For The Job appeared first on ProTek Professional Painting Services.

Do you have a big design or paint project coming up? Our ProTek professionals are on the job in the Middle Tennesse/Nashville area, and we’d love to help! Reach out here for your free quote today.

1. Hiring a professional painter is too expensive. I’m better off tackling my paint job on my own.

Many of our clients have found its actually less expensive to hire the experts on the front end! Working with experts helps you avoid costly mistakes like having to redo your work, not being able to find adequate help, or buying the wrong tools and materials on the front end. Never assume you can’t afford help when you need it!

2. Dark paint should always be avoided. 

We’ve addressed this in a few other blog posts here and here, but it’s worth repeating! In small doses and the right spaces, dark paint can add warmth and a unique flair to your space! From navy to dark red, and even a chalkboard wall or two, don’t be too quick to rule out darker colors on your next paint project. 

3. Hate your current wall color? Just paint over it!

While it can be tempting to jump in and just get your paint job over with, doing this without proper assessment and planning can do more harm than good. The quality of your paint job will depend on how well you prep the surface ahead of time, so don’t skip this step! You also may need to remove the previous paint or wallpaper, and you’ll most likely need to prime your surfaces before you begin. These extra steps will ensure that your new paint will look it’s best and go the distance long term.

4. White paint is always the best way to make your space look larger. 

The right white paint really can be magical because it’s versatile and looks great in a lot of spaces. But white is not always the answer! There are plenty of other shades of gray, light blue, and green that can also give your space an airy feel while adding interest, color, and much-needed dimension. Don’t rule out these other options when planning your space!

—

These are just of the most common 4 home design myths that we hear often and wanted to debunk. What are some other bad home design myths that you’ve heard? Don’t forget to follow and share them with us on our Protek Facebook and Instagram pages!

The post 4 Home Design Myths Debunked! appeared first on ProTek Professional Painting Services.

For some, the thought of garish red walls will warrant an automatic, “No, thank you!” But we’d like to create an argument for it. Depending on your design style and the goals you have for your space, you may find that a red paint job is worth considering after all! Here are 5 places where we’ve seen red paint create an inspired look that’s worth emulating. 

Love the look of one of the spaces you see below? Reach out to our Protek Professional Painting Services team! We’d love to help you bring a vision like one of these to life in your home! 

Make a statement with your entryway.

When was the last time you infused some new life into your entryway? This is the first space your guests see when they enter your home, so it’s definitely worth putting a little time and attention into. A bright pop of red paint might be just the thing to add some much needed warmth and welcome to your space.

Go bright and bold in your bedroom

Your bedroom should be all about calm and rest – a place where you can kick your feet up and get away from the world for a while. But that doesn’t always have to mean blue and green shades! Try one of these warm reddish hues on your next bedroom project instead.

Use red paint as an accent wall

Afraid to go all-in with your red paint? An accent wall in your living space can be a great way to add interest and variety without making a huge commitment. From bright, bold reds to quiet, richer hues, you really can’t go wrong with this approach.

Add some fun to your child’s space

Do you have little ones at home? Red might be the perfect color to add fun and personality to their rooms. We like this road-inspired theme for boys and this half wall paint job for boys and girls. Don’t be afraid to get creative and let your little ones get involved too!

Small room, big impact

Whether it’s a dining nook or your master bath, sometimes red paint can be used to make a big impact in your smallest rooms! Don’t rule it out next time you have a smaller paint job on your hands.

What do you think of the red paint trend? Is it something you would consider for your own space? Why or why not? Let us know!

And don’t forget, if you’re in the Nashville or Middle Tennessee area, you can always reach out to our Protek team for help on your painting projects!

The post This Is The Unexpected Paint Color Your Home Needs appeared first on ProTek Professional Painting Services.

Regardless of how you’re getting the job done, there’s a whole lot of terminology and processes that can feel overwhelming when it comes to painting and home improvement projects. There are so many different brands and types of paint, not to mention all the different tools for different surfaces, and the different types of services that each painting company you interact with might provide. So we’re breaking it down and sharing a glossary of house painting terms you’ll want to know before beginning your next paint project.

Have questions on other terms that you don’t see here? Reach out to us through our Contact form or our ProTek Facebook page! 

21 Common Painting Terms

1. Acrylic

Acrylic is a type of paint that you will find at most all hardware and home improvement stores. These paints are water-based and water-resistant. They can be used for interior and exterior jobs.

2 Adhesion

If you hear painters talk about adhesion, they’re referring to how well the dried paint stays on the surface without cracking, blistering, etc. This is probably the most important attribute when looking for great paint because you want your paint job to stand the test of time! It’s also particularly important when researching exterior paints because of the weather and changing seasons.

3. Basecoat

You’ve probably heard this one before. Your basement will be the highly pigmented color on your paint job. Basecoats just about always require a finishing coat of clear protection/gloss to ensure that your paint job lasts.

4. Blistering

Have you ever had bubbles or moisture form in your finished paint job? This can be extremely frustrating, and it usually means your surface was not clean before applying paint. This can also be caused when you paint over a previous coat before it finishes drying. Remember – be patient between coats!

5. Brush Types

There are so many types of paint brushes out there, we thought we’d quickly breakdown a few of the most common for you.

a. Natural-bristle brushes – These are made with animal hair and are great for paints with an oil base finish. The tips on these brushes of these brushes hold a lot of paint and help you have a smooth paint release and finish.

b. Nylon/polyester blend brushes – These common brushes are easy to clean and work great with latex paints. If you’re looking for a high-quality paint finish, get yourself a great nylon/polyester brush. Don’t be afraid to invest a few bucks on it! With proper care, they can handle quite a few projects and last long term.

c. Polyester brushes – These also work best for latex paints. They hold their shape and will help you to apply paint smoothly and evenly.

6. Caulking

You may have heard of caulking in terms of plumbing, but it’s an important part of your paint projects too! Caulking is when you waterproof the gaps around or between building materials using a flexible filler.

7. Eggshell

Have you seen eggshell paints on the shelf at your local home improvement store? Eggshell paints have a finish with very low shine, but they’re much more durable than flat or matte finish paints. This makes them great for interior walls in your home or office building.

8. Elasticity

Elasticity is all about how much your paint can expand and contract with showing any damage or changes to its appearance. The elasticity of your paint plays a huge part in its durability when it comes to things like indoor and outdoor temperature changes.

9. Enamel

Enamel paint produces a smooth and hard finish. While you don’t want to use this everywhere, enamel paint is great for trim, windows, and doors.

10. Exterior paint

Exterior paints are specifically created for outdoor usage and standing up to the elements. For most brands and colors, these are self-priming. A good one will all mention that it’s UV and weather-resistant.

11. Flat paint

Notice the word “flat” on your paint can? Although these paints are typically the most affordable, flat means that it has no gloss finish. Flat paints typically scuff or get dirty easily and may lack washability as well. For most home paint jobs, these are to be avoided.

12. Gloss

You’ll notice varying levels of gloss mentioned on different paints throughout your hardware store. Whether it’s a low gloss, semi-gloss or high gloss, this simply refers to the amount of light that a paint reflects.

13. Lead-based paint

Lead-based paints can be a major health hazard. If you’re living in an older home, it may contain paint with a high level of lead. To work with or remove this type of paint, you’ll need the help of a specialist. If you’re in the Middle Tennessee/Nashville area, feel free to reach out to our ProTek team!

14. Masking

Masking is an important part of your painting process. This is when you use tape or other coverings to prevent paint from ending up on your floors, windows, light fixtures, etc. Always be sure to prep your space with masking!

15. Matte paint

Similar to flat paints, matte paint is flat and void of shine. These are most often used for things like painting ceilings.

16. Nap

We’re not referring to a mid-day snooze. Nap refers to the length of the fibers on your paint roller. Short nap rollers work best for gloss finishes; medium naps are for lower sheen or matte paints, and long naps should be used for textured surfaces.

17. Pressure Washing

Before painting an exterior surface it’s important to do a cleaning to ensure that your paint sticks well. This is where pressure washing comes in. Using high pressure and hot water equipment and cleaners, it’s the most optimal way to prepare your outdoor surfaces for a fresh coat. You can find out more about our pressure washing services right here.

18. Rollers

When buying supplies for your paint job, you’ll find many options when it comes to paint rollers. But many of the ones on the shelf won’t be worth your time. Polyester rollers, for instance, don’t hold paint well and you’ll spent a good amount of time reloading them. Although these come at a low price, we don’t recommend them. Instead, look for a good quality blend or lambskin cover. Both hold more paint and are less likely to leave marks in your paint.

19. Satin

When you see paint that mentions a smooth finish with some gloss, it’s most likely a satin paint. These can be a great choice for interior paint projects because they have an increased washability over flat, matte or eggshell paints.

20. Sealer

A paint sealer is a special type of paint used to prevent interactions between coats. They can also cover things like knots in your paint surface to ensure they don’t show through your finished coat. They’re useful on new plaster and drywall, bare wood, and surfaces like brick and concrete.

—

Do you have questions about other paint terms we haven’t mentioned here? Reach out to our team!

The post 20 House Painting Terms You Need To Know appeared first on ProTek Professional Painting Services.