The difference between painting and decorating & how to recognize a good contractor?

The painting and decorating services are usually offered in the package. But what is really the difference between these two? And, even more importantly, what skills should a good painter and decorator have? Our tips will save you some worries and make it easier to choose a contractor. 

The restoration of interiors or exteriors usually requires some painting. Some of you may decide on relying on your own skills. There is nothing wrong with that - doing something on your own can be really rewarding and, additionally, provides you with a sense of maximum control over the whole project.

However, there are some things you miss out on unless you have a professional background in painting and decorating. To achieve a perfect and durable effect, you need not only high-quality materials and tools but also some know-how and experience. In our article, we would like to point out the difference between painting and decorating, but also the skills that a professional painter and decorator should have.

What is the difference between painting and decorating?

Decorating is generally more complex than the painting service. It may include covering the walls with wallpapers, brick, or stone, as well as graining and marbling. The finishing of the painting also falls under this category. That means, for example, adding some dimensional effect or texture. Rough-surface walls are a popular choice among those who want to make the interiors more industrial, just as concrete ones. 

In some cases, painting and decorating means uncovering rather than adding up another layer. That usually happens in the historical buildings where there might be some beautiful wallpapers or frescos to save.

The professional painter and decorator should be familiar with the techniques that enable carrying out this kind of works with safe, durable, and good-looking results. Usually, it requires the usage of specialistic materials and additional preparation.

How to recognize a good painter and decorator?

There are few features that every good painter and decorator should have. What can you expect from your contractor?

#1 Carrying out an expertise

Professional painter and decorator will not get far without an eye for detail and an analytic approach. Even having the best technical skills, it is almost impossible to achieve a top-notch effect without the ability to analyse to a state of the walls. Through expertise, you can estimate the scope of work that needs to be done - most importantly, how many layers should you take off and apply.

#2 Saving the old layers

Sometimes the best what you can do is to take advantage of what you already have. If you live in an old building, maybe it is worth underlining the beauty of the textures and structures marked by time. A good painter and decorator will help you preserve them and bring them back to the initial state.

The difference between painting and decorating & how to recognize a good contractor?

#3 Seeing a big picture

Professional contractors should have an eye for detail. But paying attention to them should go in line with seeing the project as a whole. This way, they can give you some advice when you're a little bit stuck with your idea and not sure what color scope and materials to choose.

There is definitely more to it than just colors - a professional team of painters and decorators can help you choose the types of wood, marble, concrete, or brick. 

#4 Keeping you updated

A good and reliable contractor should keep you updated on the progress of the works. Before launching a project, you can expect a detailed quote with an estimated price and a range of expenses that it covers. The expenses may change depending on the choice of materials and other factors, but it is always good to have this basis. 

Constant exchange of information is the best way to avoid misunderstandings at any stage of the project. A good painter and decorator will make sure you stay informed about the current state of the works and the plans for its next stages. 

If you are searching for a reliable painter and decorator in London, check Ignas. We work on both residential and commercial projects for clients in all the neighbourhoods of the city. Reach out to us in order to get a quote.