That’s why today we’re letting you in on a few professional trade secrets that most painting companies won’t tell you. So the next time you have a beckoning painting project that you want to get started on, grab your paint, your brushes, and this article. We’re letting you in on four big secrets that every truly professional painting company knows that will help you achieve professional results every time.

SECRET #1: Put adequate time into your prep.

Paint preparation often takes more time than the painting itself, but it’s always worth the work. Before you start, be sure to take ALL furniture out of the room. Use drop cloths to cover all surfaces. Wash, patch and sand your walls, trim or doors as needed. Use painting tape to protect windows and baseboards, and use plastic bags to cover doorknobs. Always remove any light switches and fixtures as well before you start. Paint can actually accentuate imperfections, so it’s best to take care of them upfront. The more work you do on the front end, the better your finished paint job will be.

SECRET #2: Make caulk your new best friend.

Here’s a tip that most DIY painters tend to miss. When you want professional results from your project, using caulk will make a big difference in your result. Filling gaps around your trim, doors, windows, and crown molding with caulk will give your paint finish a professional look and also make your trim look better than new. Always start with a thin application inside the cracks where wood meets your walls, and be sure to remove any extra caulk to keep things looking clean. You may want to consider purchasing a dripless caulk gun to achieve the most professional-looking results.

SECRET #3: It’s all in the tools you use.

Do you want to know the biggest insider secret to professional painting results in your home? It’s all about the tools you use! A great paintbrush is essential for a professional-looking finish, so be sure not to skimp on price here. Try to stick with poly brushes for exterior painting and soft nylon for the interior. Paintbrushes are available in 1 to 4-inch widths, and it’s always a good idea to keep a few different sizes on hand, depending on the areas you want to paint.

In the same vein, be sure to stay away from cheap roller covers. When your roller doesn’t hold enough paint, you end up with layers of paint with varying thickness and lap marks along your walls. When you’re shopping for a roller, try a ½ inch nap roller cover (preferably wool blend). If you take care of it and clean it properly, it will last you for many paint jobs to come. And while we’re at it, use top quality paint! The better quality your paint is, the fewer coats you’ll have to use, and the faster you will be done with professional results. Good paint doesn’t come cheap, however. Expect to spend at least $20 -$30 per gallon for a top of the line product.

Secret 4: Paint in the right order.

Did you know most professional work in a certain order when painting a room? Of all the painting secrets, this one alone will save you a ton of time and clean up on your paint job. Whenever you can, always paint the trim first, then the ceilings and walls. It’s easier to protect and tape off trim and baseboards instead of the walls. When you work this way, you don’t have to be super neat while painting your trim. After it is totally dry, simply protect it with an easy release painters tape. From there, you can paint the ceiling if needed, before moving on to your walls.

Are you looking for a company in Middle Tennessee to help you tackle your next home improvement project? Our ProTek team is licensed, insured, and ready to hear from you! Contact us right here to take the first step to make your design dream a reality. 

The post Four Professional Painting Secrets You Need To Know appeared first on ProTek Professional Painting Services.

That’s why this summer, we want to help you make lasting memories with the people you love in the place that you call home – and that includes your outdoor spaces!

So whether you have a patio, front porch, back deck, or another outdoor structure you want to enjoy, here are some super easy steps you can take to get the most out of your outdoor spaces this Tennessee summer.

1. Pressure wash your home

What does your home’s siding or brick have to do with your outdoor entertainment spaces? When you spend a lot of time outside, you’ll start to notice the condition of your home in ways that you haven’t before. Mold, mildew and other environmental residues can be a real eyesore when you want to enjoy some outdoor fun. By cleaning the outside of your home itself, you’ll automatically make your outdoor spaces a more enjoyable place to be. Taking this step will also increase the curb appeal of your home tremendously as well. Are you in the Middle Tennessee area? Then you can find out more about pressure washing services from our team at Protek right here.

2. Paint or stain your deck or patio

There’s no better way to make your deck or patio look and feel instantly brand new than with a fresh stain or paint job. We’d be willing to bet that taking this step will make your home itself feel remarkably cleaner and better taken care of to your guests. Choose a stain or paint that accentuates the color scheme of the rest of your home. Then choose patio furniture, pillows, or other accents to compliment the look! While you can definitely do this job yourself, we always recommend connecting with an expert when you’re able.

3. Add plants and greenery

As we mentioned in our previous post about your home’s curb appeal, greenery is a super affordable, easy way to make your outdoor space look incredible. Try a bit of home gardening, potted or hanging plants, or even shrubs or bushes that add some additional privacy to your property. If it’s alive and well maintained, there are thousands of options when it comes to flowers and plants that will add personality to your outdoor areas.

4. Choose appropriate seating

Don’t forget that your outdoor spaces are an extension of the rest of your home! If you want to fully enjoy your deck, patio or porch this summer, you’ll want to ensure that they’re comfortable, enjoyable places to be. There are many seating options available at your local home goods or home improvement stores. The key is to find the right fit for your space. From hammocks and benches to patio sets, tables and more, your seating will inform how you use your space, so choose wisely! We love resources like Pinterest, Instagram, and magazines like Better Homes & Gardens to help you fully envision the space.

As you can see, it doesn’t take much to make your outdoor areas a place that you, your family and friends love to spend time! So don’t let this Tennessee summer get away without trying out at least one or two of these projects. Then grab a cold drink, cook up something on the grill, and enjoy the space you get to call home.

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Need help with one of the summer projects on your home? We do everything from pressure washing, to staining, outdoor and indoor painting and more. If you’re in the Nashville or Middle Tennessee area, contact our ProTek team today to get a free, personalized quote!

The post How To Get Your Deck Ready for a Tennessee Summer appeared first on ProTek Professional Painting Services.