FAQ
It’s normal to have questions! We understand that hiring a painter can be a big decision. Here are some of the most common questions we get asked!
When should I have my home repainted?
Typically, one year before you think it’s ready! We have found the 7-year mark is a good time to schedule your home’s repainting. Ultimately, it varies depending on how well it was prepped and painted the very FIRST time it was ever painted. We have had homes we’ve painted last over 10 years!
Can I leave my home while your crew works?
Yes. Most people we work for are not home while work is going on. While you are at work or
running errands, our crew will be busy painting. We are licensed and fully insured so there is
nothing to worry about. Our 17+ year reputation is built on trust!
Do I need to remove anything from the rooms before you paint?
Please move all small items and breakables. Please also remove pianos, antiques, grandfather clocks. Unless agreed otherwise, we will move and protect all of the furniture and fixtures.
When is the exterior painting season for Central Virginia?
Central Virginia has fairly temperate weather, so in our region the best time of year to paint is from Easter to Christmas. We are typically fortunate with
warmer days as December approaches, and in the spring we stay conscious of the pollen season and adjust exterior projects accordingly!
What kind of paint do you use?
We use the only professional quality paints from Sherwin Williams, PPG & Benjamin Moore.
What is VOC / low VOC / no VOC paint and why should I care?
VOCs: All paints, varnishes, and solvents contain volatile organic compounds, or VOCs. Exposure to
VOCs can trigger asthma attacks, respiratory problems, eye irritation, nausea, or dizziness.
Because of these health concerns, a number of paint manufacturers have introduced Low or No
VOC paint alternatives.
Low VOC: The Environmental Protection Agency states that, to qualify as Low VOC, latex paint must
contain no more than 250 g/L and 380 g/L for oil paint.
“No” VOC: The term No VOC or Zero VOC for the paint is a misnomer. The No VOC labeled paint will
contain some (less than 5 g/L) VOCs. Adding pigment to the paint will likely add another 2-5 g/L
to the total.
Do you charge for estimates?
Nope! All our estimates are free!
Do you offer a warranty?
Yes, all of our work comes with a warranty. We guarantee a minimum of 1 year on all substrates and surfaces.
Are you an EPA Lead Certified Company?
Yes, we are EPA Lead Certified Company and have painters who have been certified.
When I get different bids from several companies, they are never the same, some high, some low. Why is there such a price difference?
The cost of a job is usually determined by the level of thoroughness, attention to detail, and quality desired. It costs more to properly prepare a surface for painting than to just pressure clean and scrape the surface. Most of the cost of painting is in the surface preparation and the labor involved in the application of the paint and not the actual cost
of the paint itself. As with most other industries, generally you get what you pay for.
At Widespread, we take care of our employees, which is why we have such high retention and dedication among our employees. We pay half of our employees’ health care, and after one 1 year of employment they qualify for our sponsored Simple IRA plan where we match up to 3%. Additionally, they receive 9 paid holidays, and 2 weeks paid vacation after two years. ALL employees participate in profit sharing as soon as they start. We have long-term, well compensated dedicated employees.
ADDITIONAL Resources
Tips & Tricks
Want to learn more about picking paint colors, hiring painters, or prepping your property? Check out these and more on our blog!
Need some inspiration?
Our team has painted houses of numerous styles in different shades to individual tastes. If you’re having trouble deciding what colors to go with, feel free to peruse our Residential projects gallery for ideas! Or you can always reach out to us for recommendations on the best colors for your home.