Painting - Stain siding - what prep should I expect a pro do?
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ygillard
10-03-08, 07:43 PM
Hello,
I have a contractor who is restaining my siding (bevel cedar siding). They are almost finsihed and I can see that did not remove the old caulk (that is obviously in bad shape) and just painted over it. While I know that it would be better to have them do that (and I will ask), is it common parctice for a contractor to do that when they restain a house or is this something that is usually considered extra?
Thx,
Yves
I have a contractor who is restaining my siding (bevel cedar siding). They are almost finsihed and I can see that did not remove the old caulk (that is obviously in bad shape) and just painted over it. While I know that it would be better to have them do that (and I will ask), is it common parctice for a contractor to do that when they restain a house or is this something that is usually considered extra?
Thx,
Yves
marksr
10-04-08, 05:33 AM
A lot depends on the painting contractor - that's why it is always important to check references. Some painters only apply the coating, others like myself, want a good looking job that will last a long time and enhance our reputation :thumbup:
A good paint/stain job always starts with good prep! Often this includes washing the structure. Loose boards should be renailed and caulking done [or redone] as needed. Not all painters will replace rotten wood but a good painter should bring it to the customer's attention. Preferably all these should be addressed at the time of the bid although it isn't uncommon for things to be discovered while the job is ongoing.
The biggest thing you have in your favor is your checkbook. Let the painter know what you want fixed and expect out of the paint job. Pay him when the job is satisfactory.
A good paint/stain job always starts with good prep! Often this includes washing the structure. Loose boards should be renailed and caulking done [or redone] as needed. Not all painters will replace rotten wood but a good painter should bring it to the customer's attention. Preferably all these should be addressed at the time of the bid although it isn't uncommon for things to be discovered while the job is ongoing.
The biggest thing you have in your favor is your checkbook. Let the painter know what you want fixed and expect out of the paint job. Pay him when the job is satisfactory.