Frequently Asked Questions About Painting & Staining
Your Painting & Staining Questions Answered
At Hazelwood Painting, we know that choosing the right painting or staining services can bring up a lot of questions. Whether you're wondering about the best paint for your home, how often you should paint your home's exterior, or what type of stain is best for your deck, we’ve got you covered. Below, we answer some of the most commonly asked questions to help you make the best decision for your painting or staining project.
Our Services & Process Questions
What types of painting services do you offer?
We offer interior and exterior painting, cabinet painting, deck staining, wood finishing, and select pressure washing as part of prep for painting.
Do you offer free estimates?
Yes, we provide free, no-obligation estimates so you can understand the scope, timeline, and cost of your project upfront.
Are you licensed and insured?
Yes — Hazelwood Painting is fully licensed and insured for your peace of mind.
Do you offer any warranties or guarantees?
Yes, we stand by our work and are committed to your satisfaction. We’ll go over any guarantees specific to your project before we begin.
How far in advance should I schedule a project?
Booking a few weeks in advance is ideal, especially during spring and fall. That said, feel free to reach out — we’ll do our best to fit you in!
General Painting Questions
How often should I repaint my home’s exterior?
Exterior paint typically lasts between 5-10 years, depending on factors like climate, surface preparation, and paint quality. Regular maintenance and touch-ups can help extend the lifespan of your paint job.
What type of paint is best for my home’s interior?
The best paint depends on the room’s use and lighting. High-traffic areas benefit from durable, washable finishes like satin or semi-gloss, while matte or eggshell finishes work well for living rooms and bedrooms.
Do I need to move furniture before painting starts?
While our team can assist with moving light furniture, we recommend clearing out valuable or fragile items before the project begins to ensure their protection.
What is the best season to paint the exterior of my home?
Spring and fall are ideal seasons for exterior painting, as mild temperatures and low humidity help the paint adhere and dry properly.
How can I prevent paint from peeling over time?
Proper surface preparation, including cleaning, sanding, and priming, is essential to prevent peeling. Using high-quality paint and ensuring adequate drying time between coats also helps extend the lifespan of your paint job.
How do I know if my walls need a primer before painting?
A primer is recommended for new drywall, surfaces with stains, or when transitioning between dark and light colors. It helps with paint adhesion and improves color vibrancy.
Staining & Wood Finishing Questions
What’s the difference between painting and staining?
Paint provides a solid, opaque finish that covers the surface, while stain penetrates wood fibers to enhance the natural grain. Stain requires reapplication more frequently than paint but offers a more natural look.
How often should I stain my deck?
Deck staining should be done every 2-3 years, depending on weather exposure, foot traffic, and the type of stain used. Regular maintenance helps protect the wood and prolong its lifespan.
What’s the best stain for outdoor wood surfaces?
Oil-based stains offer deep penetration and durability, while water-based stains are more eco-friendly and dry faster. The best choice depends on your wood type and desired look.
How do I maintain my stained deck or wood surface?
Regular cleaning, sealing, and reapplying stain as needed will keep your wood surfaces looking great and protected from moisture and sun damage.
Can I stain over old stain, or do I need to remove the previous layer first?
It depends on the condition of the existing stain. If the old stain is still in good shape and you’re using the same type of stain, you can apply a new coat. If it’s peeling or you want to switch stain types, stripping or sanding is recommended.
How long should I wait to stain my new deck?
It’s best to wait 3-6 months before staining a new deck to allow the wood to dry and acclimate. Pressure-treated wood contains moisture that needs to evaporate before applying stain for proper adhesion. You can test if the wood is ready by sprinkling water on the surface—if it beads up, it’s still too wet; if it absorbs quickly, it’s ready to stain.
Exterior Painting Questions
Do you pressure wash before painting outside?
Yes, we highly recommend pressure washing exterior surfaces before painting to ensure proper adhesion and a longer-lasting finish.
What happens if you paint over dirty siding or trim?
Painting over dirt, mildew, or chalky residue can cause the paint to peel, bubble, or wear out quickly. That’s why cleaning and prep work are so important.
How long does exterior paint typically last?
With proper surface prep and high-quality materials, exterior paint can last 7–10 years or more, depending on sun exposure and weather conditions.
Can you paint over old paint?
Yes, in many cases. However, the surface needs to be properly cleaned, scraped, and primed as needed to ensure the new paint bonds well.
What’s the best time of year for exterior painting?
Spring and fall are ideal, but anytime with dry weather and moderate temperatures is usually safe for painting outdoors
Interior Painting Questions
How should I prepare my home before interior painting?
We recommend removing small items, valuables, and wall decor. We can help move and cover furniture and protect your floors during the project.
Do I need to be home while you paint?
It’s completely up to you. Many clients prefer to be away during painting, and we’re happy to work independently as long as we have access.
How long does interior painting usually take?
It depends on the size and scope of the project, but most interior rooms can be painted in 1–2 days. We’ll give you a clear timeline before starting.
Can you help me choose colors?
Absolutely. We’re happy to provide input and samples, and we regularly coordinate with the experts at Chattanooga Paint for expert recommendations.
What kind of paint do you use for interiors?
We use high-quality products, mainly from Benjamin Moore, chosen for durability, coverage, and a clean, professional finish.
Still have a question?
If you have any additional questions or need a free estimate for your painting or staining project, don’t hesitate to contact Hazelwood Painting. Our expert team is here to bring high-quality, long-lasting finishes to your home or business!
