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It is to not judge something the first time you see it. Studies show that people have a hard time getting past their first impressions. A series of experiments by Princeton psychologists indicate that opinions about others are formed in the blink of an eye.  The results of these experiments were based on evaluating the faces of strangers in photographs. But why would the outcome be any different, then say, looking at the outside of your home?

If you are a homeowner and are staying put for a while, this is a good time to evaluate the “first impression” of your home. A well-manicured yard (cutting the grass and using your weed whacker) makes a much better first impression. What doesn’t?  A yard where the grass is overrun, the weeds run a close second to the blades of grass and the landscaping beds are in need of a fresh load of mulch. If you are considering selling your home, or buying a home, these “details” become even more important. Curb appeal is the first impression and is everything if you are selling or buying!

Your Home: First Impressions

Homeowners know they need to have their homes painted every 8-10 years. You’ll have to have your home painted more often if you use a painting contractor who does not use quality products or has not prepped the house properly before painting. If the paint on your house is chipping within five years of painting, you were more than likely a victim of a painter with poor knowledge and experience with exterior painting.

Painting: Taking care of the Skin of your house

You need paint (or siding) to protect your home from rain, sleet, snow, wind, and sun. Use high-quality protection (paint) so it lasts as long as it is supposed to last. The caulking around the windows and doors should also be high quality. When painting contractors use cheap caulk, it will shrink causing rain and moisture to nest in and around your windows making them prone to wood rot.

Sorry to be to tell you, but…

• a common practice for ‘some’ painters is to put cheaper paint into expensive paint buckets.
• in a rush to get your check and move on to the next job, a painter will wash and paint your home in one day that results is paint bubbling.

How to Hire a Professional

• Ask for references before you hire a painting contractor.
• You always get what you pay for, don’t buy on price alone.
• Evaluate the website and look for reviews online (either Facebook, website, Google). Take the time to do your homework. You may not be selling this year, but you may find yourself wanting to sell 2-4 years later. Is painting your house an expense you want to have to sell your house?
• Ask what his/her process for painting the house is. The process should look something like this: remove downspouts, pressure wash, and allow time to dry, paint, caulk, and replace downspouts.
• It never hurts to pay attention to your first impression of a painter!

Unfortunately, you only get a split second to make a first impression. Walk around your house and look at it. Get up on a ladder (safely!) if you can and look at it. If your house needs it, do your homework and hire a painting professional. You’ll make a good first impression every time!