A decorating project runs more smoothly when everyone knows what happens next. Here is how we work, from your first message to the final coat, and what you can expect along the way.

Step 1: Tell us about the job

Phone 07960 485 880 or use the quotation form. Tell us where the property is, which rooms or surfaces you want painted, whether it is lived in or empty, and any dates you are working to. Photographs are useful, particularly of any stains, cracks or peeling paint.

Step 2: We discuss the work

We talk through what you would like and look at the condition of the surfaces. This is the stage to raise concerns, from colour choices to pets or working from home. We will tell you if we think something needs fixing first, such as a leak or damp, because paint will not solve it. We also explain the likely paint types and finishes, so you know the reasoning behind them.

Step 3: Your quotation

Once we understand the job, we confirm a quotation setting out what is included and how the work will be carried out. Read it carefully and ask questions. If something is unclear or you want to change the scope, this is the time to do it, before any work begins.

Step 4: The transformation

On the agreed day we arrive, protect your home and begin. The work follows a sensible order: preparation, priming, then coats, with proper drying time between them. When we finish, we remove protection, tidy and walk through the result with you.

Preparation: the part you do not always see

Preparation usually takes up a large part of the project. Cracks and holes are filled and sanded, loose paint is scraped back, joints are caulked so lines are crisp, glossy surfaces are keyed, and stains are sealed with a proper stain-blocking primer. Bare plaster is given a mist coat and bare wood is primed. It is unglamorous work, but it is what makes paint look smooth and last.

What to expect on the day

We arrive at the time we agreed and confirm the plan for the day with you.
Furniture is moved where needed and covered, and floors are protected with dust sheets or suitable covers.
Sockets, switches and fittings are masked or removed and refitted.
Sanding creates some dust, which we keep under control as far as is reasonable.
Paint has a smell that varies by product, and rooms should be ventilated. Water-based products are generally lower in odour.
At the end of the day, we tidy up and leave the space safe to use.

Dust sheets, tidying and respect for your property

We treat your home carefully. Dust sheets go down before work begins, tools and materials are kept in one place, and we clean up daily. For exterior jobs, we protect plants, paths and glazing and clear away debris. Where we need to move something fragile, we will ask you first.

What we need from you

Access to the property at the agreed times, and somewhere we can park or unload if possible.
Small valuables, pictures and breakables cleared from the rooms.
Colours and finishes chosen before we begin, ideally tested on the wall.
Information on pets, allergies and rooms that must remain usable.
Honesty about known problems such as damp or leaks.

Weather and timing

Interior work is largely unaffected by the weather, but exterior painting needs dry surfaces and suitable temperatures. Dates for outdoor jobs may move, and we will tell you as early as we can. We would rather delay than apply paint in poor conditions.