RC Painting Inc. Southern Utah

What to expect from a Painting Contractor

2011-03-19T18:10:00.001-07:00

Whether you are building a new home, buying an older home or freshening up your existing home, it is always a good idea to use a Professional Painting Contractor. Many homeowners, while quite capable of doing the work, after they purchase the required equipment and materials, and invest many of their own hours find that it may have been much more effective to hire a professional. A professional has all the required equipment, can often provide a better quality paint for a more competitive price, and is much more efficient. We can do the work in much less time and have your home back to normal quickly.

Inviting a stranger into your home is often a daunting task for many, here are some tips on choosing a contractor.

So now you are ready to contact a painter!

If you decide to call, remember, many painters are owner operators, therefore they may be working at a customers home and be unable to answer right away. Please leave a message and they will call you back. You can also email them using the contact us form on the web page.

At RC Painting, Chris Haught handles all the office duties and estimates. She will have a few questions for a homeowner in order to see if our company is a good fit for your needs.

Some of the questions she may ask are:

May I have your name and contact info?
How did you hear about us?
What size is your project?
When do you want the work done?
Have you looked at colors yet?
When was the last time the home was painted?
Was your home built before 1978?
Have you hired a contractor before?
Do you have a budget?

The answers to these types of questions will help to determine how to best meet your needs. We can then set and appointment to meet with you and anyone else involved in the decision making progress. The information we collect from the above questions will help us to be prepared when we meet and bring any color samples, product data or RRP materials.

RC Painting is a family owned and operated company, many times Rob and Chris will both do the estimating if our schedule allows, there are a few things we will do when we arrive:

We will arrive on time
We will walk through the proposed areas with you and take notes and possibly pictures
We will ask you about finishes and colors
We will provide a project book with testimonials and project photos for you to review
We will measure the space
We will provide a folder with our insurance and license information
We will provide you with a written, detailed, firm estimate
We will answer any questions you have
We will ask you if you would like to be added to our schedule

We hope to provide a professional, pleasant process to make your next home improvement project go as smooth and hassle free as possible. Our business depends on satisfied customers and referrals, and we love what we do!

Call Chris today at 435-439-5690 or email to see what we can do for you!

Visit our site here. Check our Facebook Page to see current projects.

Choosing Color-Before and After

2011-02-06T10:46:00.001-08:00

The internet is a wonderful thing, where else could you find articles like this to help you choose paint colors? There are sites to help you decide "what color am I" and "what are the most popular color trends" and on and on. There is so much information now that the average homeowner can easily be overwhelmed!

That was the case when I met a recent homeowner on an estimate. She had a lovely home with tasteful decorations and furnishings. She also had a whole basketful of color swatches and no idea which walls to put the color on. She had the home custom built several years ago and could not decide on colors then, and the whole home was still the original builders white.

So we sat down at the kitchen table and looked at color samples and talked about options. The first decision we had to make was what would be the main color, after looking at several samples of beige, we agreed on Kilim Beige. Now for the colors! We had a general idea of which palettes she preferred, based on her personal preferences and the colors of the carpets and furniture.

On many projects, we can pick up a "Color to Go" sample from our favorite paint store, Sherwin Williams. These are less than $10 and allow you to paint a small swatch on a wall to see it in different lighting during the day. We did do a few of those, but we still had decisions to make as to which wall would be the best for an accent wall, as this house had many angled walls and arches.

Back to the internet we went! By using an online Color Visualizer, I was able to upload photos and add any color to any wall with the click of the mouse! I was able to create several options and email them to the customer, she was able to look at them at her convenience and make suggestions or approvals. We still applied some color samples to the wall for the final color approval, as computer and monitor differences may vary, and this allowed us to fine tune the colors to match existing fabrics in the home. We also used Sample Boards to create several Faux Finish options for approval.

It was a lot of fun to work with a homeowner on choosing the colors, when we started, she was overwhelmed by the wide variety of choices, by the the end of the project, she was making color suggestions and confident of her choices. Because of her input and the use of technology, I think she made some great decisions!

Here are are a few pictures of the pictures we used, and the final product, which included 13 different colors!

If you would like to see a room in your home digitally colored, send me a photo and a few color suggestions and I'll "color" for you! If you like it, let's talk about how we can make color a reality in your home!

See and download the full gallery on posterous

Paint our Red Rocks Green!

2010-10-23T06:47:00.001-07:00

Southern Utah Home Builders Association is working hard to promote Green Building Practices in Southern Utah. They have created the Southwest green Building Council and are trying raise money and awareness. Won't you please take a minute and vote!

More info here!

Thanks!

A brush with.... John Howell

2010-10-22T17:34:00.001-07:00

Meet John Howell! John started painting by his father's side as soon as he was able to hold a brush! John says,

"When I was a kid I painted with him and grew to love painting. My dad was a guy that loved to see a job done right - the first time, every time."

John has carried on the family tradition and has run a successful painting business in the Portland and Vancouver areas since 1993. Contact him at John Howell Construction. John has mastered many aspects of the trades and can help any homeowner protect and beautify their home.

In his free time, John likes to network and offer advice to other painters at a poplar online forum, Painttalk. There John is known for his quick wit and cryptic responses! He is always willing to share his knowledge of paint products and procedures. He is always interested in seeing what others are up to and is a valued online friend! Great to "know" you John!

How to choose a Painting Contractor!

2010-10-22T15:40:00.001-07:00

Some people spend more time doing research to choose television than they do to choose a contractor!

In the small town of Cedar City, like many Southern Utah towns, most of our work comes from referrals. Our satisfied customers are always happy to give out our name out to friends and family, and we appreciate that!

Southern Utah is also a desirable place to retire or build a second home, so we often get calls from people who have no local connections and found us by Googling "Utah Painters". Many of the people we meet are from the "big city" and have often been let down by unscrupulous contractors in the past. They are often surprised by the small town honesty and friendliness they encounter in our area. But I still encourage all homeowners to follow some basic steps when hiring a contractor.

1. Ask for referrals from family friends and neighbors. More than likely, you've been a guest at a home that's been recently painted by a professional contractor. If your first reaction to that paint job was favorable, be sure to ask the homeowner which contractor they used.

If you don't have a referral from someone you know, there are plenty of contractors that regularly advertise in your local newspaper, flyers, or online at sites such as Facebook. Check your local paint store like Sherwin Williams and ask the manager for the name of a good painter.

It's generally a good idea to get an estimate for your project from 2-3 different contractors. You can set multiple appointments with prospective contractors for a particular day, or spread them out over the course of a few days in the same week. Generally, initial estimates are free.

2. Before you meet with a contractor, write down the details of the project you have in mind as well as a projected budget. Some things you can check before they come.

Are they licensed with the State? Click here to the State Licensing Board to look up any contractor.

Are they insured? They will have to show you a copy of their Liability Insurance.

Are the employees covered under Workers Compensation? Click here to verify. If a worker is hurt on your property, you could be liable for medical bills!

What type of experience do they and/or their employees have? They should be able to show you samples of their work.

While price is always a factor, having skilled workers and a reputable company that has been in business for a minimum of 2-3 years should be high ranking factors as well in your final selection.

3. Was your home built before 1978? If so, your contractor must be EPA Certified. Click here for more info on Lead Paint.

4. When you meet, both decision makers should be available. As you and the contractor are take a look at your painting project, ask what type of preparation work they do. Painting is 90% preparation and 10% painting!

Ask for recommendations from the contractor for types of materials you can consider for your project. If you are wanting to do a more eco-friendly painting project, be sure to ask if the materials the contractor uses are low-VOC or zero-VOC paints, primers, etc.

A well-versed and experienced professional contractor will know the latest trends in color, materials and techniques and can make suggestions that will best fit your particular project.

The Painting Contractor should provide you with a detailed, written scope of work outlining all the work proposed, a price and proof of qualifications. Some may also provide references from other customers, if not, don't be afraid to ask! On larger projects, some contractors may prefer to complete the proposal at their home or office and present it to you later, in person, or by fax/email. Some projects are simple enough that a contractor can complete the proposal on the spot and may have a contract ready as well.

5. Gather your notes as well as the contractors' estimates and compare experience, price, etc. It's important to compare "apples to apples", some contractors may use a cheaper paint or skip important prep.If you feel you're ready to make a final selection from the contractors you've interviewed, great! You're ready to contact them to begin the project. If you're still unsure, or don't feel like you've found what you are looking for, you may want to consider calling another contractor for an additional estimate.

Interior Paint Makeover

2010-10-08T14:07:00.001-07:00

This homeowner wanted a fresher, brighter interior before the long cold Utah winter sets in! We finished the mudroom and gave the interior a bright coat of paint!

Before and After Painting in Cedar City, Utah

2010-09-18T19:26:00.001-07:00

See what a difference a professional painter can make to your home!

Call Rob at RC Painting to see what a difference we can make!

Exterior Painting in Southern Utah

2010-09-12T11:53:00.001-07:00

Many of the homes in the Southern Utah area are stucco with rock trim. This is a great option for our desert climate. There is very little wood trim to maintain on most houses. The stucco still requires some care though, we will talk about how to keep your home looking clean and fresh next week, so check back!

Stucco homes still need to be inspected every year, look for small cracks, efflorescence and flaking paint. These should be addressed and repaired by a professional painter. Often, a yearly check can prevent later problems. If your home is already showing signs of failure, it may be time to call in a professional for a proper prep and repaint.

If your stucco is failing, fading, or you are ready to update the look of your home, call RC Painting today to solve all your Stucco problems!

Look what a simple color change did for this home!

Commercial Painting in Cedar City, Utah

2010-09-11T16:38:00.001-07:00

Living and working in a small rural area often presents many challenges for small businesses. Many small business owners find it difficult to keep a full crew busy all year long, especially in these economic times. The construction industry has been especially hard hit in Southern Utah.

There are many contractors who have downsized their staff and then find themselves without an experienced crew to complete larger jobs in a timely manner. Many of these contractors will hire day labor from an employment agency like SOS Staffing, and hope that the employee has some safety training or experience.

Some may hire a friend, an inexperienced person, or worse, an illegal immigrant. They will often pay cash under the table, as setting up someone on payroll and Workers Compensation can be costly and time consuming.

RC Painting of Cedar City and Piazza Painting of St. George have had these same issues, we wanted to keep our experienced, insured and trained employees working all year round. In order to accomplish this, we work together often on larger projects, such as the Genpak addition in Cedar City. By combining our resources, we are able to complete jobs like these with experienced staff and the right equipment!

Untitled

2010-09-11T15:42:00.001-07:00

The weather in Southern Utah is starting to cool off........

Summer is coming to an end, the kids are back in school and the leaves will be turning soon! Did you get all your home improvement chores done? Are you ready to spend a few months indoors? How do your walls look?

If you are ready to add some warmth and personality to your home, call RC Painting at 435-691-1246 to schedule an appointment to freshen up your living space!

Our latest project!

2010-08-28T15:54:00.001-07:00

Five new homes in Enoch, Utah!

Free Speech and Profanity

2010-08-28T14:08:00.001-07:00

What has happened to the way we speak and present ourselves lately online? I participate on a number of online forums and social media sites. I have noticed an increase in the use and the common acceptance of profanity and vulgarity on many sites.

As a moderator on two construction related forums, I hear (see) a lot of good natured conversations with an occasional profane word thrown in for emphasis and it really does not bother me. In both forums, there are private (members only) and public sections. For the most part, the members in the public sections show restraint, and in the private areas, not so much! But that is ok, because in the private areas, you know what to expect, as contractors can be an "expressive" group!

What about the public areas? Should they be censored? Should anyone be allowed to use language that others may find objectionable? Many members have their business name visible, does it matter to them that a potential customer might find their post? Do people really worry anymore on how they appear? Does it make it a difference if it is "in context" or "gratuitous"? I don't know?

This morning, I asked a member of a forum to remove the words bitch and jackass from a signature line (this appears in every post they make, sometimes a personal statement or opinion, most often a link to their own site). I was astounded by the response I received. I was accused of violating his Right to Free Speech! I had not asked him to edit his political opinion, only remove the two words. Was I being a prude? Is that oppression?

I did some googling and found some interesting articles like these:

Why do Educated People use bad words?

South Carolina Considers Law That Would Criminalize Profanity In Public Forums

Youtube patron outraged over profanity filter

What's up with all the profanity?

It seems there is a lot of controversy on this subject! Maybe I am just an old lady who still believes in good manners?

What do you think?

A Building Marathon!

2010-08-21T17:41:00.001-07:00

We are on the home stretch of painting 5 homes in 5 weeks in the Nichols Landing area of Enoch, Utah for SMJ Homes of Cedar City, Utah. This was a tight schedule, but having a General Contractor like Shem Mackert with an experienced staff and a group of subcontractors who are experienced in working together made it a very smooth build. Justin Bowler of SMJ Homes is the project supervisor and he made sure that all the trades were scheduled in a way that allowed everyone the access to do what they needed to do. This allowed for a quality home to be built in an efficient and budget friendly manner without sacrificing quality. Call SMJ Homes now to see what they can do for you!

See the full gallery on posterous

We love what we do!

2010-08-01T19:38:00.000-07:00

Rob and I were talking about our business, RC Painting this weekend. The economy has presented many challenges to small businesses in the past year.
Many contractors kept busy during the building boom of the past and with the number of building permits down, many companies have gone out of business. We are so fortunate to have a loyal customer base, and a few quality General Contractors like Shem Mackert of SMJ Homes to keep us busy.

Rob and I love working with Homeowners, Property Managers and General Contractors to provide a stress free home improvement, renovation or new build.

We would not be able to provide the excellent service that keeps our repeat customers coming back if were not for the members of our team. So I'd like to thank Rob, Bill and Robert for all they do! We love what we do!

Interior Painting

2010-08-01T17:48:00.000-07:00

Well, summer is drawing to a close! Are you ready for a long winter indoors staring at the walls? Before the snow hits, let RC Painting of Cedar City, Utah give your interior a new look! Call Chris now at 435-439-5690 to schedule your free estimate!

The Erecta Rack

2010-07-23T15:18:00.000-07:00

After using the Hinge Mags to paint the doors while they are hanging we move the doors to keep them safe from overspray and damage from other trades. We used to move them all out to the garage, moving 27 eight foot doors thru the house was a tough job, but Robert from RC Painting was able to do it using a lot of time, sweat and energy. Once out in the garage, they were still prone to damage from wind and trade traffic.
We recently had the opportunity to try the Erecta Rack System. This allowed us to stack the doors in one central area in a space no larger than one door. That meant Robert did not have to carry them all through the house! He was very glad to only move them a short distance and stack them. This also made it much easier for him to roll a coat of primer and paint on the bottom edge of the door. This is a step often skipped by many painters. He could then cover them with plastic and continue on with other details.
The Erecta Rack is not designed for spraying on, but as a stacker to allow doors and trim to dry.
It is well designed and sturdy, perfect for doing cabinet doors. I think this is something we will get a lot of use out of! Thanks Erecta Rack for a great product.

Hinge Magnets

2010-07-23T15:02:00.000-07:00

Another product RC Painting likes to use is hinge magnets. These flexible magnets cover the hinge on a door and allow us to spray the door and the trim in place. Many painters use braces or stands to spray the doors all in one room and that can work as well, but we prefer not remove the hinges from the door. Often times a screw will get stripped or the door will just not hang the same.
Spraying the door hanging allows the sprayer full access to all edges except the bottom, which is dealt with later. Check out our video to see how well they work. You might have to turn your monitor;)

Using the right equipment.

2010-07-23T14:50:00.000-07:00

In my previous post, I talked about using certain products to help increase efficiency and quality while painting New Construction homes in Southern Utah. One of the favorite products of RC Painting's is Tub Sealer. This is a product we spray on the bathtub as soon as it is installed in the home, this is usually done in the framing stage. The home is still exposed to the elements, and subject to damage accidentally by the plumbers, electricians, insulators, drywallers and others. This product is a thick rubbery substance that protects the bathtub until the home is completed. Currently, RC Painting is the only Painting Contractor in Cedar City, Utah to use this product. Shem Mackert of SMJ Homes is very happy to have not had to replace or repair a bathtub since he started using it.
Contact us if you would like to learn more!

Scheduling in New Construction Painting

2010-07-23T14:28:00.000-07:00

RC Painting specializes in painting new construction homes for General Contractors and Owner Builders. Painting New Construction in Cedar City is a great experience, we are lucky to have a core group of subcontractors that we encounter in each home. Often times, many of the trades are in the house at the same time trying to get their portion done. When it is ready to paint, all other activity must stop so that the painting can be completed. This means that we must complete our work as quick as possible, while still providing a quality finish.

Rob Haught of RC Painting and his crew have a procedure and system they have spent years refining. This enables them to complete an average home (1700 sq. ft) in three to five days, depending on finish requirements. They have also kept up with new products in the industry to provide the best service and finish. Look for upcoming blogs to see what products we like!

Here is a video of our process.

New Lead RRP Rule

2010-02-03T20:50:00.000-08:00

This is a copy of a letter I recently sent to local newspapers.
Good afternoon, my name is Chris Haught, and I own and operate RC Painting in Cedar City, Utah. We primarily focus on residential and light commercial painting.
Part of my success in the painting business has come from not only sharing my knowledge with others but also learning from other contractors via the internet who share my passion of doing things "right". One of the most pressing issues that legitimate contractors are just starting to learn about is the EPA's new Renovate, Repair, and Painting (RRP) regulation that takes effect April 22nd.
A recently completed survey has shown that 9 out of 10 affected contractors (remodelers, plumbers, electricians, painters, etc...) do not know about this new regulation. The other scary part is that most of those contractors, could find themselves in trouble for not complying with part of the regulation that is already in place – namely the notification aspect effective December of 2008. The fines are well in excess of $30,000 for non- compliance.
I will be taking the required certification class and have applied for Firm Certification as required by the EPA. It is a complex regulation that will affect every single homeowner, nationwide with a home built prior to 1978. This will hit them right in their pocketbooks and they will have no choice as to whether they comply or not. Currently, there is an "opt-out" clause in the regulation. Due to a court settlement with the Sierra Club and others, it is most likely going to be removed prior to the regulation's start date on April 22, 2010.
We, as contractors and even homeowners working on their own rental properties, face major fines if we do not follow the regulations exactly. The process we must follow is rather complex even for simple "in and out" projects like a simple vinyl window replacement. This will add significantly to our costs, which we will then pass on to our customers.
Many of us are questioning not only the procedures that are sometimes contradictory, but even if they will even benefit the homeowner. There are also a few interesting issues still outstanding; namely will the local inspection departments request proof of certification in order to pull a permit for older houses. How will the insurance companies handle claims on older homes? How many contractors are going to be surprised, when they find out that their policies exclude issues dealing with lead? How many contractors will have to stop working on an existing remodeling project or postpone one because they have not gotten their Firm Certification back in time? Should a homeowner unknowingly hire an unqualified contractor and a fine is levied, what are the chances that the contractor will complete any unfinished work?
Here are a few news clippings of other newspaper, and additional links that you may find of use
Kansas Article
NY Times Article
Webinar
I feel it is imperative that the public be made aware of this immediately since there are many homeowners who are currently planning projects that will be affected by this rule. Please note that contractors who have not yet applied to the EPA can expect to wait 90 days for their certification to become valid, and we are less than 80 days away from the rule taking effect. Unfortunately many of these homeowners may have already signed
contracts.
Although cases of reported Lead Poisoning in children are rare in Utah, there is still a risk when improper procedures are used during renovation, whether it is a homeowner or a professional.
Feel free to contact me if you have any questions.
Email me!

Color your world!

2009-10-26T20:59:00.000-07:00

Do you like to play it safe and pick neutral colors when choosing colors for your new home? Are you afraid of trying something new? Do you get overwhelmed by all the color choices?
You are not alone! Many people feel the same way, and several experts have offered their expertise to help you. You can check out Toronto Colour Consultants to see how to use color on your ceilings! Look at Sherwin Williams Lifestyle Collection to see the latest in color trends. Launch the Sherwin Williams Color Visualizer for even more color ideas!
Are you ready for color now! Let RC Painting help you bring warmth and life to your home with color! Check out the colors some of our customers have chosen!

Colors

2009-10-06T18:53:00.000-07:00

Have you ever thought of how colors can affect you? Last summer some children experimented with color and created this video! Check it out!

Festival of Homes

2009-09-04T19:25:00.000-07:00

I love when Cedar City, Utah has the annual Festival of Homes! The public gets to see the finest our lovely area has to offer in quality homebuilding. These homes are built by some of the finest craftsmen and decorated beautifully! If you have the chance, take the tour! If not you can see one of last years homes in this video. This home was built by Shem Mackert of SMJ Homes in Cedar City. His home this year, the Chateau D' Terre is in the Old Farm area on a quiet cul de sac. There are many other plans available from SMJ Homes.

Gel Staining a Fiberglass Door

2009-08-30T14:17:00.000-07:00

Here in the Southwest Desert of Utah, wooden doors take a lot of abuse. It is vital to apply protection to them every year to prevent fading, splitting and warping. Many people choose Fiberglass Doors, but still desire the look of wood. RC Painting can make can make your Fiberglass Door look like wood! Our painters have the skills to transform any door into art! Look at this video and see!

Social Media Part 1

2009-08-23T16:53:00.000-07:00

I have been a member of forums for years, mostly Painttalk and Contractortalk and recently a new one, Remodel Crazy. The sharing of information on these forums is incredible. The range of experience in years and types of businesses is vast!

Where else can you post a question about a difficult procedure or new product at any hour and have several responses and opinions from seasoned professionals across the country almost instantly?

These professionals also give their advice freely to young business owners, helping them to navigate the sometimes confusing maze of Licensing, Insurance, Bookkeeping and Marketing/Advertising.

At Remodel Crazy, homeowners are encouraged to join and ask for help! These forums are like a community and members often end up meeting or doing business together!

Over the past few years I have seen a huge change in the way we do business. It used to be a word of mouth and handshake sealed the deal and a tradesman carried his tools in a satchel. Now he also carries a laptop and Websites, SEO, Keywords, Directory Listings, Targeted Mailers and Branding are part of his daily vocabulary.

The “face of our business” has now become digital!

In addition to hammering nails or wielding paintbrushes, callused fingers are now tapping keyboards!

Social Media Part 2

2009-08-23T16:52:00.000-07:00

Recently I created Facebook , YouTube, LinkedIn and Twitter accounts.

Part of it was to learn what the hype was about. I am now hooked!

When I first started, it took a while to figure out what I was doing. Then I started making friends and connections, I now spend about 20 minutes a day and “make the rounds”. I set up logins and sharing tools that make it simple to add info at any time.

I am constantly finding new information from all my new online friends.

I can talk to like-minded people about business issues, new products, marketing ideas and more. Because I have a “history” with many of the members, they know enough about me and my business practices to be able to offer sound advice and share ideas.

The online forums I am a member of require more of a time commitment, the other social media I use in different ways are in the next post.

Social Media Part 3

2009-08-23T16:48:00.000-07:00

What I am using!

This is for professionals in many industries and trades. Great place to network, you have to request to connect and they need to know you from somewhere else. This lets you control your network. There are many groups you can join and post questions, articles, jobs, etc Great place for a subcontractor to connect with GC’s.

Facebook

I have a private profile that I use to keep in touch with family and friends. I have also connected with people “I know of”, you can request to be a fan or a friend, and I connected with locals and post painting info occasionally. There are a lot of applications in Facebook; you can play Mafia Wars, send a drink or a rose, a million others. If you are not into that (like me) you can hide them.

I also have a Business Page that is public. I use this to showcase recent jobs and hope to have customers “write on my wall” eventually. It is very easy to add pictures, comments, and videos, think of it as a mini web page!

YouTube

Creating a YouTube video was much easier than I thought! I just used the software on my computer and some still pictures, created an account and uploaded a video!

I have made a video on New Construction Procedures to give to customers as part of our Proposal Packet. I also made one to show a new product to protect bathtubs during construction and was able to use it to sell the service to a contractor.

Twitter

Some may think of Twitter as a bunch of teenagers texting about the latest music craze. Not so, I have used Twitter to make connections in my area and share info.

You can choose who you wish to follow, yes, there is twitter spam! The posts in Twitter have to be less than 140 characters, so you get “little bites” or links all day.

With Twitter, I looked for local “Tweeters” and follow them. When you follow someone, they will generally follow you.

I also add the links to Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter to my signature line in my email, forum signatures and my website. I continue to learn something every day!

I have made some online friends as well, feel free to contact me to network!

By now you are probably asking, “How many leads/customers have you received?”

Well, none that I can directly attribute to these efforts, YET! I hope that by slowly building a presence, along with my website, clean and lettered vehicles, mailers and yard signs will help to brand by company by keeping it visible in the public eye.

This video has some interesting numbers!

Protecting your Investment

2009-08-02T13:45:00.000-07:00

At RC Painting we work with many homeowners building their dream homes. Building your own home as often been said to be one of the most difficult experiences most will go through, right behind a divorce!

As a husband and wife team, Rob and Chris of RC Painting know the stress that many are subject to during this process. One of our goals is to help customers make this process run smoother. We can help you with the finish schedules and proper timing of trades to be more efficient and save you money.

One of the services we offer is a Tub Protection. The tubs are often installed during the framing process and subject to damage throughout the construction process. By applying a thick, rubbery coating, they will be protected. Contact RCPainting to learn more!

Click here to see the process!

Three Days to Build a House?!

2009-07-19T08:23:00.000-07:00

Earlier I talked about getting involved in a Homes for Our Troops House here in Cedar City, Utah. A few weeks ago over 100 volunteers showed up to turn a slab into a shell of a home. It was an incredible experience! As a Painting Contractor, we don't often see this process. Watching a large group of men and women swinging hammers together, putting up walls and a roof was like watching a symphony! The homeowners, Travis and Stephanie Wood, their daughter Maddie and many other family members were there as well. They, and other volunteers, helped provide food and water to the hardworking crew. I met some of the neatest people! The build is still going on! If you or someone you know can help, let me know. See more on our Facebook Page!

2009-07-04T17:18:00.001-07:00

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Accent Walls

2009-07-04T09:50:00.000-07:00

Color can do more than add warmth to a home! Using the right colors can add personality and zing to any room! Bright Red Accent Walls can make a room appear rich and vibrant. Soft Blue Accent Walls can make a room seem cool and tranquil. Bright Green Accent Walls can make a statement to a theme room. These colors are best used on the main wall of a room or on a feature you want to highlight. The other wall colors can be tinted to compliment the Accent color. Contact RC Painting Inc today to see how we can add color to your home!

Adding Warmth

2009-06-30T20:18:00.000-07:00

Many new homes and apartments are painted a basic white. This can make a home feel cold and impersonal. A good way to add warmth and personality is to add color. In this picture we painted all white walls a Sherwin William Townhouse Tan Eggshell. Accent walls can also add color and personality to your home! Check back to see how! Contact RC Painting for more information on transforming your home!

Honor our Servicemen

2009-06-21T18:15:00.000-07:00

Last year I learned of Homes for our Troops, a nationwide non profit group that helps adapt older or build new homes for our servicemen injured in the line of duty. I thought it would be a great way to show our support and signed our company up. A local resident, Travis Woods is having a home built in our area so I was contacted. Next week, June 22-26 is the "Build Brigade"! Volunteers from the area will frame the walls and put the trusses and roof on in 3 days! That is going to an incredible task! I will be helping in the registration tent and will try and get some pictures. Check back for updates! If you are in the Cedar City, Utah area and would like to donate food for the volunteers next week, please contact me!

2009-06-14T15:02:00.000-07:00

In my last (and first) blog I talked about choosing a painting contractor, rereading it I realize I had omitted some things that might help a homeowner. How do you even find someone to call?

You can look in the yellow pages, close your eyes and pick at random.

You can wait until you see a flyer, lettered vehicle or mailer.

Plenty of good painting contractors use these methods. Some work mostly by word of mouth and these painters can be harder to find. If you are looking for a painter (or a plumber, electrician or roofer, etc.) there are several options.

Call the local Homebuilders Association for your town, in Cedar City, see the BIA.

Call your local paint supply store, not the big box stores, but a store that sells nothing but quality paint, like Sherwin Williams or Jones Paint and Glass, your town may have others. Ask the manager at the paint store who he can recommend.

Friends and neighbors can know a good painter, ask around.

The internet can help you too! Google "painters in my city" and look at their websites.

When you do search, you will find many companies like Service Magic or Reliable Remodeler. These are "Lead Service Generator Services". There is a lot of controversy concerning these companies. They work by charging contractors a set price for each lead. You are the lead! When you submit your name and project, they send your information to the contractors who have paid. Sometimes they sell your name to many contractors! They have no control over quality of contractor. Look for a local painter that has local references!

So you want to hire a contractor?

2009-06-07T13:02:00.000-07:00

So you want to hire a contractor?

• Talk with several contractors and get quotes from each. Ask about
insurance and licensing.

• Determine what will be done for each type area (any wood trim,
stucco, aluminum siding, walls of each room, etc.) for:

- surface preparation
- priming; what primer (type and brand) will be used
- finish coat: type and brand, where the brand fits into the
manufacturer's line (premium, first, second, economy, contractor's,
etc.) how many coats

• For exterior work, what will be done to protect plantings; for interior work, what will be
done in regards to moving furniture, protecting furniture

• When will the work be started? And finished? How many painters will be working on the
job? What will the remedy be if the job is not completed on time?

• What is the warranty on the work? Length of time, what type failures are covered, what
is the remedy if there is a paint failure?

• Get names of previous customers from each contractor as references, and contact
them to get their recommendation.

• Note whether the contractor was courteous and businesslike, punctual with appointments
or in returning phone calls, quality-oriented, experienced ,and generally interested in doing
business with you.

Then, take into account the information on each contractor and the asking price, to make an informed decision on which one to choose for your job.