General Questions

What's included in a quote?

Our quotes cover everything discussed during the estimate. We give you a detailed list of all areas to be painted including the type of preperation involved. All of our quotes include labour and paint unless otherwise stated. We remove all hardware, replacing on completion. Garbage is moved off site once the project is completed. We dispose of empty paint cans leaving leftovers for you in the future.

How long does a colour consultation take?

A colour consultation is usually an hour long depending on the size of the project.

Do you have insurance and WSIB coverage?

Yes we have both. Certificates are available on request.

What can I expect from an interior paint job?

Once we have signed the contracts and confirmed the colours to be used we agree on a starting date. When we arrive we spend the first day setting up. Once set-up is completed we can begin to prep all surfaces ready for the finish coats. We work efficiently to ensure there is little disruption to your regular schedule. Prep work is the most labour intensive part of an interior project. We make sure all surfaces are clean of contaminents and dents before touching a paint brush. Floors are taped if needed and furniture is covered. Only when the surfaces are free of defects are we ready to begin priming. Depending on the contract we apply two coats of finish coat in the chosen colour(s).

What can I expect from an exterior paint job?

Depending on the surface and the condition it is in we start by prepping everything first. If it has been painted in the last five years with good quality paint and proper prep work underneath then our job is easier. If however the previous paint job is failing for whatever reason the majority of the project will be prep work remedying the problem. Sometimes a power washer is brought in to blast away dirt from brickwork which promotes proper adhesion of the top coats.

What is a change order?

A change order is implemented when there are changes to the original contract. It covers anything that arises after the quoting process and usually once work has commenced.

Why is your bid higher/lower than a competitors?

When you are getting quotes for your project it's easy to forget things when one contractor arrives and remember for the next. That's why it's best if you make a list of the areas to be included in the quote. Keeping the details consistent is key to getting an accurate and competitive quote. Things that can affect the final quote are paint, prep work, workmanship and level of service.

Do you have references?

References are available on request.

Do you provide a warranty?

Yes we provide a two year warranty for both interior and exterior projects. This covers workmanship as paint is covered by the manufacturer. Once the project is finished we pass the paint warranty to you for safekeeping.

Do you hire employees or sub-contractors?

All of our staff are on payroll. They are trained in all the inner workings of Element Painters Inc. If you have a question it can be answered by any of our team members. We let you know who will be working on your project during the quoting process.

How long will it take to complete?

How long is a piece of string! Included in your quote is an estimated time for completion. We try our best to budget our time wisely and allow for changes to occur. However if for any reason we expect to go over schedule we advise you well in advance.

Do you service the Greater Toronto Area?

Yes we do! We service Mississauga, Ajax, Richmond Hill, Thornhill, Pickering and Oakville.

Can you give me a quote over the phone?

It is our policy to not give quotations over the phone for a myriad of reasons. One being that we cannot see the project. A walkthrough is vital to ensure we get all the information neccessary for a fair and accurate quote.

Technical Questions

What paint do you use?

We have tried practically all eco friendly labelled paints on the market in North America. We have our favourites that our team are happy to work with and consistently produce nice results. If you have a brand that you want to use on your project just let us know during the estimate.

What are Voc's?

VOC is an abbreviation of Volatile Organic Compound. Volatile Organic Compounds are organic chemical compounds which have high vapour pressures, causing them to vaporize into the atmosphere. While various things are constantly vaporizing into our atmosphere, volatile organic compounds pose as major problems to both our indoor and outdoor environment. The American Environmental Protection Association found that the levels of several types of common VOC pollutants can be from 2-5 times higher inside than outside. An example of the detrimental affects of high indoor VOC levels can be seen with “Sick Building Syndrome”

What temperatures are ideal for painting?

Due to Canadian weather we have a short window of time to complete exterior projects. The usual exterior painting season begins in April and ends in October. The temperature can drop to 2 degrees celsius before it's considered too cold. It is best to paint when there is low humidity and little or no wind to prevent paint contamination during application.

Why is preparation so important?

Preparation is key to a long lasting paint job. No matter how good your top coat is, it's never as good as the surface beneath. Surface defects need to be leveled. Dirt and grime have to be cleaned. Stains need to be sealed and the list goes on. That's why your quote will include a detailed list of the prep work involved in your project for you to better understand.

How long does an exterior paint job last?

If the prep work is done properly and the surface beneath is in a fine conditon an exterior paint job can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years.

Why does my deck look gray?

Greying is a term used to describe the damage done by the weather. A brightener can remedy this before applying a new coat of stain.

Why is my deck peeling?

Your deck can be peeling for a variety of reasons. The previous stain applied may not be of the highest quality. Your deck may not have had the time to age properly prior to putting on the stain. Exotic woods that are more commonly being used for decks may not like certain deck stains.

How do I clean my freshly stained deck?

Just like you would keep you floor clean in the house. Get rid of debris that builds up in the corners, removing all leaves and other particles. Wash the deck according to instructions we provide.

What's the difference between toner and stain?

A toner has a slight tint to it compared to a semi-transparent stain that comes in a variety of colours to complement your home. Toners protect the wood from splitting and warping and have some UV protection. A semi-transparent stain pentrates the wood protecting it more so from UV rays than a toner. It also has the added benfit of lasting longer compared to a toner.

What's the difference between HVLP and an airless sprayer?

HVLP spray guns (High Volume Low Pressure) are a useful piece of equipment for doors and cabinetry in your home. When using a HVLP spray machine we work in our studio to ensure overspray is contained, returning and installing the parts once cured. Airless sprayers come in useful when the home is empty of furniture and belongings as it's necessary to tape everything not receiving a coat of paint. Particularily econmical for exterior brickwork and siding. Drying time is reduced when using an airless sprayer. We will advise you of the best route to completing your job during the estimate.

Miscellaneous

When can I clean my walls?

It would be prudent to leave your walls for a month a painting. If something does get on the fresh paint sooner, give it a gentle wipe with a damp cloth.

How do I choose the sheen?

A flat sheen is suitable for ceilings and low traffic areas. An eggshell or satin is perfect for all walls including the kitchen and bathroom. A semi-gloss is suitable for trim, doors and in some instances walls. High gloss is perfect for cabinetry, front doors and furniture.

What do I do with leftover paint?

Leftover paint should be properly sealed prior to storing in a cool place like a basement. We ask you to keep leftover paint not only for touch-ups but to help out in the future when identifying what went where.

How do you protect my belongings?

We ask you to move anything precious like artwork and antiques prior to work commencing. Anything that is left over should be moved to the center of the room ready for us to use plastic and sheets to protect it.

Do you charge for estimates?

No we don't charge for any estimates.

Are you animal friendly?

Yes we are animal friendly! We ask that they be kept secure whilst we are working, as cats especially have a tendency of liking full roller trays.

Do you work weekends and nights?

If the project is only accessible on the weekends or after 6pm we can accomodate you. Please note the quote will be higher for special requests like this.

How long will the paint take to dry?

For latex paints it's usually safe to assume it's touch dry in two hours. Exterior drying times vary widely due to the humidity, temperature and the surface the paint has been applied to.