We have at least one house-flipping show we can’t help but watch, however, the experience is much different when you’re the one doing the flipping. No matter what state or market you’re trying to flip a house in, the process can be expensive and time consuming, so it’s crucial that a flipper does their research and gathers as much professional house-flipping advice as possible before investing in a project.

Georgia, in particular, is a state with a lucrative return rate. In fact, the rest of the nation has been trying to keep up. According to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, “The national average for flipping’s share is the same now as Atlanta’s: 6.7 percent.” This rate has many buyers in the Atlanta area taking advantage of the opportunity, and they’re hiring different services or house painters to help them with the repairs. Learn how these professionals can help you successfully flip your house with the following house-flipping advice.

House Painting

Every house-flipper knows that the key to reselling a home for profit is to partake in projects that increase the home’s value. A fresh coat of paint, inside and out, is a great step in this process. Adding the touch of a professional painter to the updates of a home can create a smooth and seamless atmosphere with color choice, finish type, and skilled brush strokes.

Siding Repairs and Replacement

Certain house painters also deal with siding projects. Siding must stand up against constant exposure to the elements, so many professionals will suggest repairs before anything else. Not only does this project increase the home’s overall value, but it also increases the home’s defenses against the outside world.

Carpentry Services

Companies will also generally offer services for upkeep and maintenance throughout the home. Whether it’s the home’s baseboards or repairing shutters or rotted wood, if you want to flip your house successfully, you’ll need to ensure that you take care of even the smallest details, because they make a big difference.

Door and Window Replacement

To further protect a home, it’s important that it has sturdy and efficient doors and windows. Not only will this create a strong seal to protect the property but installing these replacements can help with the owner’s energy bills. Quality doors and windows insulate the home, and the owner doesn’t need to use as much energy to keep the house cool or warm in certain seasons.

Gutter Installation

Since these professionals offer several carpentry services, it’s important to note that some may also help with the gutters. A flipped home will need an updated and functioning gutter system to reduce the risk of flooding and, by extension, increase the home’s value.

If you’re looking for a company to help you flip your house in the greater Atlanta area, Bear Mountain Custom Painting has the professionals you’re looking for. Their trained painters in Alpharetta, GA know the ins and outs of all these necessary repairs and can help you get the results you’re after.

We spend more on home improvements every passing year. The 2018 Leading Indicator of Remodeling Activity, LIRA, projected that homeowners would spend nearly $340 billion on home improvements and repairs. This is a 7.5% increase from the estimate for 2017. This steady increase in dollars spent is a crucial clue for what it takes to sell a home in the current market.

The housing market is competitive, and homeowners across the country want to get the most out of their property when it comes time to sell. To do this, they make improvements, repairs, and even additions to their homes in the hopes they can sell it for a higher list price down the line. If you’re looking to do the same, then read on to discover some home renovations that add value to your home.

Refine Landscaping and Curb Appeal

One of the first things that potential homebuyers look at is the overall curb appeal of a property. If you want to raise the value of your home, make sure your home’s exterior looks fresh, clean, and just as attractive as the rest of the houses in your neighborhood. Homebuyers typically don’t want to invest in a home that requires extensive remodeling after they purchase it. It’s for this reason that first impressions are everything.

If you don’t know where to start with the exterior of your home, a new coat of paint never hurts. A fresh new look is the perfect way to make your home stand out and protect it from the elements. You may need to do some research on what paint finishes work best based on the area you live and how much sunlight your siding is exposed to.

Replacing your windows and front door in Cumming, GA can also be a worthwhile investment. Not only will the replacements give the home a new look, but it will also better protect the interior of the home from the elements.

As you pursue these projects, also be sure to keep up with the landscaping. A neat, well-groomed lawn is a great way to complement the beauty of your property and the rest of the neighborhood.

Update Select Areas of Your Home

Crucial areas that buyers look at include the bathroom and the kitchen. These two spaces generally have the biggest need for renovation, as the technologies and designs for these rooms constantly evolve. Adding the most up-to-date amenities can greatly increase the appeal of the home, and, by extension, increase the overall value.

Another home renovation that adds value to your home is turning your unfinished basement into a more welcome and inviting space. While unfinished basements can be used for storage, the value of a home increases when the buyers are given options on how to use a space. By finishing your basement, you create the possibility for new individuals to use that space how they see fit. The key with this renovation is to make the space as open and usable as possible.

If you plan to pursue these renovations, however, there are a few things you should consider before you start. Renovations like these can be expensive, so it’s crucial to weigh the price you’re going to pay for the work against the overall value that will be added to your home. You may not get all your money back from these repairs, and you need to adjust your renovation plans to fit with what you can afford.

Catch Up on Necessary Repairs

When it comes to home improvement, sometimes the details are where you’ll see the most impact. Whether it’s a leaky faucet or a broken air conditioner, even the smallest problems can collectively make up the bigger picture of your home. Fixing these small issues will not only prevent larger ones down the line, but will also increase the property’s value, as the new owners won’t have to do any of the work themselves.

Some potential repair projects include the following:

• Reroofing
• Updating siding protection
• Fixing electrical issues
• Repairing water damage
• Removing damaged or rusted pipes
• Removing mold
• Fixing damage from pests
• Repairing the foundation

Be prepared to correct these issues, and others not listed, as they occur so you can avoid more severe damage. While these repairs can be expensive as well, it’s crucial that your home is in pique condition if you want to preserve its value.

Consider Additions

While the most expensive renovation, one of the ways to dramatically increase a home’s value is to add useable floor space to the property with an addition. This could be in the form of a spare bedroom or even a new study. Adding bathrooms to a home tends to increase the value more because homes with multiple bathrooms are typically in high demand.

Deck and patio additions are also extremely sought after. Remember, you’re taking up some of the yard space with these additions, so it’s important to plan them out carefully. Large yards are also popular among homebuyers, especially young couples who wish to start a family, so weigh the pros and cons of the addition carefully.

When evaluating home renovations that add value to your home, remember that they also need to coincide with neighborhood regulations. You may need to make a request with your town hall to start the work. Depending on the town you live in, you may also have specific codes to meet. The town hall will have to agree to the work and give you a permit to build the addition if this is the case. Generally, this isn’t a problem; however, if the town wants all its homes to remain uniform in appearance, you may not be able to make the changes you want. If you live in a gated community, for example, one of the main appeals is that the homes mirror each other, so your options may be limited in what you can pursue.

If you’re looking for a painter in Cumming Georgia to help with your renovation process, Bear Mountain Custom Painting has just the professionals you need. We can take away some of your renovation stress and leave your home with beautiful, lasting results.

According to HPAA, “Color affects your behavior, moods, and thoughts,” thus demonstrating the importance of picking the right color scheme for your home; color psychology is essential to take into account. However, staring down a wall of paint color cards can be overwhelming, especially when you’re unsure of what you want. With colors and types all over the spectrum, many homeowners find choosing paint to be one of the most difficult parts of home renovations. Even after deciding on one, many still can’t help but wonder if they made the appropriate choice. But that’s what learning how to choose paint colors for your home interior is all about: trial and error and learning as you go. Going into the process with an open mind might even show you that choosing the right paint is easier than you thought it would be.

However, it never hurts to use paint color advice from professionals, either. Read up on the following tips to gain the knowledge and confidence you need to make the right paint color choices.

Think About the Look and Finish

Before you even start thinking of a color, it’s important to plan out what kind of look you’re going for—specifically, what sheen you want the walls to have. Whether it’s vibrant, elegant, or subtle and soothing, determining the look and atmosphere you want to achieve will ultimately help you narrow down your color options. Furthermore, knowing what sheen you want the walls to have will help you enhance that look and protect your walls from damage. Be sure to research your paint finish options thoroughly to figure out which one will work best for you.

Get Ideas from Décor

If choosing an atmosphere doesn’t help, try taking some paint color advice from the color schemes you already have in your home. It makes the process easier and less costly if you create a color scheme from preexisting colors instead of needing to buy new furniture and décor to match the walls. Experiment with different colors to pair with the ones you already have or have your local hardware store custom mix a unique color just for you.

Test Colors

When you have it narrowed down to a few options, you should test them before you begin the project. After acquiring a few samples, paint a few strokes onto the wall to see how it will look once it dries. You can also paint a piece of poster board and compare it to the color of your furniture if you’re looking for a specific match. Keep in mind that the colors of your walls and furniture don’t have to match exactly, but you do want them to complement each other.

Pair Bold Colors with Neutrals

It’s important to remember that no matter which color you pick you should also consider incorporating a neutral to balance it out. Bold colors in particular, while creating a strong atmosphere, can easily overwhelm a room that already has a lot of patterns and textures. If the color you’ve decided on is bright and bold, you might want to consider pairing it with a neutral color to keep that brightness from becoming the focal point of the room. Color schemes such as these will help create contrast within a room while also taking the edge off a particularly bright section of it.

Keep it Consistent

While you don’t have to paint your entire house the same color, it’s important to keep some level of consistency as you maneuver between different rooms. Avoid using colors that are in sharp contrast as they can evoke an atmosphere of chaos rather than the one you’re going for. Depending on the room, you may want to go a few shades darker or lighter of your preferred color; don’t pick hues on opposite ends of the color wheel.

If you need help choosing the right finish and color for your home, Bear Mountain Custom Painting has the interior painting experts in Atlanta that you need. Also, feel free to check out our friends at Redfin for some more great paint color advice!

Adorning the exterior of a home with stained cedar siding is great for achieving a natural and rustic look. However, to maintain the look, you must know how to stain cedar siding.

Staining will not only preserve the value of the home but also prevent the siding from becoming unsightly with signs of visible damage such as splintering, flaking, and fading. As these occur, the fresh wood underneath will be exposed to the outside conditions, and it can begin to decay as well. Luckily, Bear Mountain Custom Painting is here to help you prevent this from happening by providing professional tips on how to stain cedar siding.

If you are looking for house painters in Alpharetta, painting services in Roswell, or help elsewhere in North GA, please get in touch.

How Often Should You Paint or Stain Cedar Siding?

You should paint your wood siding every 3-7 years, or stain it every 4 years or so. How often you’ll need to restain or repaint will depend on your region’s weather conditions as well as how often your home suffers damage. Cedar wood itself deteriorates slowly over time due to its concentration of protective natural oils. However, that protection begins to decay as soon as the wood is exposed to the elements.

Splintering, flaking, and a light gray color on the surface of the siding are all visible signs of damage. As these occur, the fresh wood underneath will be exposed to the outside conditions, and it’ll begin to decay as well.

How To Clean Cedar Siding Prior to Painting It

Before painting or staining cedar siding, it’s essential to clean and prepare it to ensure optimal adhesion and a long-lasting finish. Start by inspecting the siding for any damage, rot, or loose nails. Make repairs as needed. Next, clean the surface to remove dirt, mold, mildew, and old paint or stain. Use a mixture of warm water and a mild detergent, or opt for a specialized wood cleaner. For stubborn stains or mildew, a diluted bleach solution can be effective. Apply the cleaning solution with a soft brush, working in sections and rinsing thoroughly with clean water to avoid residue buildup. Allow the cedar to dry completely, which may take a couple of days depending on the weather conditions. Once dry, lightly sand the surface using a fine-grit sandpaper to smooth any rough spots and promote better paint or stain adherence. Ensure you remove all the sanding dust. Now, your cedar siding is prepped and ready for a fresh coat of paint or stain!

How To Apply New Stain or Paint on Your Wood Siding

Choose Good Weather For Your Paint Job

Before you even pick up a paint brush, you should consider the local weather, as it could affect how well the stain will stick to the siding. Once you decide on the perfect day to do the job, think about the effects you want the treatment to have. When you’re treating cedar, in particular, you’ll want to know how much of the real wood you’d like to cover up and how much stain you’ll have to use to achieve the desired color.

Time is of the Essence – Cedar Can Become Discolored

If you’re staining your cedar siding for the first time, keep in mind that cedar will start to discolor about two weeks after it’s installed. To prevent this discoloration, you’ll want to stain or paint the wood as soon as possible. If your main goal is to protect the cedar, the best option is to paint over it, as the solids in paint ward off light and can postpone the deterioration process.

Learning how to stain cedar siding can be intimidating, so don’t be afraid to reach out for help. Bear Mountain Custom Painting will work with you to help with any of your home painting needs in the Atlanta area. We have the finest painting contractors in Woodstock, Cumming, and elsewhere.

If you’re preparing to spruce up the exterior of your home, you may find yourself wondering about the best and worst weather conditions for exterior painting. And you should, since painting a house is no easy task. Luckily, the professionals at Bear Mountain Custom Painting are here to help with advice on which exterior painting weather conditions to avoid.

Water and Moisture

You obviously shouldn’t paint the exterior of your home while it’s raining, but how soon after the rain can you paint the exterior of your house? The answer is simple: as soon as the surface is completely dry. This is because a wet or damp surface won’t allow for smooth paint application. Painting on a wet surface also leaves your results prone to frequent flaking, cracking, and blistering.

Extreme Temperatures

The extreme heat can be bad for you—and it can also be bad for your paint job. Applying paint in hot weather can cause the paint to dry too quickly. The paint won’t have enough time to spread into the crevasses of your home, resulting in cracking and chipping. The hot weather can also dry out the paint on your brushes and rollers, causing it to harden.

It can also be too cold to paint outside. According to The Balance Small Business, “cold weather slows drying time and extends recoat times. Recoat time using latex paints at 75 degrees Fahrenheit requires a period of four hours. If the temperature drops to 50 degrees, the recoat time will be extended to six hours.” Therefore, it’s crucial to consider the temperature when you’re about to begin a project, as it could affect the project’s timeline.

Sunlight

Like an extremely hot day, direct sunlight can also dry out your paint too quickly—though it happens for a different reason. Direct sunlight can break down the binding agents and pigments in the paint you’re using. Over time, this can make the paint less durable and even more susceptible to the elements. Too much sun exposure can ultimately cause the paint to prematurely deteriorate, resulting in chalking, fading, and even erosion.

If you’re still unsure about which exterior painting weather conditions to avoid, Bear Mountain Custom Painting’s trained professionals will be able to give you more answers. After assessing the situation, we’ll make sure your exterior painting project in Cumming, GA is a successful endeavor.

Transforming your home with a fresh coat of paint is not just about choosing the right color; it’s also about selecting the appropriate finish, sheen, and texture that suit your space and lifestyle. Each type of paint finish offers unique benefits and can significantly impact the ambiance, maintenance, and durability of your painted surfaces. This comprehensive guide from our house painters in Johns Creek will delve into the various paint finishes, their sheens, textures, and the costs associated, helping you navigate through the options to find the perfect match for your painting project.

Paint Basics: Understanding Sheens and Finishes

The sheen of a paint finish is essentially its glossiness level, influencing how light reflects off the painted surface. High-gloss paints offer a shiny, reflective finish, making spaces feel brighter and more vibrant. On the other end, low-gloss or matte paints provide a more subdued look, absorbing light and giving walls a softer appearance. The choice between gloss levels affects not just aesthetics but also functionality, as the sheen level impacts cleaning ease and surface imperfections visibility.

Light-colored, shiny surfaces can make rooms feel cooler by reflecting more light, while darker, matte finishes absorb heat, adding warmth to a space. These characteristics are crucial in both interior and exterior painting projects, as they can alter the thermal dynamics of your rooms.

Gloss Finishes: High Gloss and Semi-Gloss

High Gloss Paint Options

Known for its 70-89% gloss content, high gloss paint is the epitome of shine and durability. Ideal for areas prone to dirt and moisture, such as kitchens and bathrooms, it offers unparalleled ease of cleaning. However, its reflective nature can highlight wall imperfections, requiring meticulous surface preparation. High gloss paint typically costs between $50-$70 per gallon, with higher-end brands possibly costing more.

Semi-Gloss Paint

With a gloss percentage of 41-69%, semi-gloss strikes a balance between sheen and subtlety. It’s less shiny than high gloss but still offers good durability and cleanability, making it suitable for high-traffic areas. Similar to high gloss, semi-gloss paint can also accentuate surface flaws. The cost for semi-gloss paint ranges from $40-$60 per gallon.

Non-Gloss Finishes: Eggshell, Satin, Flat, and Matte

Eggshell Paint

Offering a soft, low-luster finish with 10-25% gloss, eggshell is washable and hides imperfections well. It’s ideal for living spaces with moderate traffic. However, its susceptibility to scuffs may not suit homes with young children. Eggshell paint is generally priced between $30-$50 per gallon.

Satin Paint

This finish features a 26-40% gloss content, providing a pearl-like sheen that’s easier to clean than eggshell. Satin is versatile, used in kitchens, bathrooms, and children’s rooms. Touch-ups can be challenging, as they might show up against the original coat. Satin paint costs around $30-$45 per gallon.

Flat Paint

With less than 4% gloss, flat paint offers a non-reflective, matte finish that excellently conceals wall blemishes. Ideal for low-traffic areas and ceilings, it provides a rich color depth. However, its propensity to mark easily and difficulty to clean makes it less ideal for busy spaces. Flat paint is typically the most affordable, costing $20-$40 per gallon.

Matte Paint

Slightly glossier than flat with 5-9% gloss, matte paint offers better washability and resistance to marking, making it suitable for high-traffic areas desiring a velvety finish. The cost for matte finishes ranges from $25-$45 per gallon, depending on the quality and brand. Our house painters in Cumming, GA have seen significant demand for matte paint in recent years.

Painting Costs and Considerations

The total cost of your painting project isn’t just about the paint itself; labor costs can significantly affect your budget. Professional painters typically charge $2-$6 per square foot, depending on the complexity of the job, the surface conditions, and the type of finish chosen. Glossier finishes require more prep work to ensure a smooth application, potentially increasing labor costs.

For DIY enthusiasts, choosing a paint finish that’s forgiving and easy to apply might save on labor but consider the long-term maintenance and aesthetic appeal. Investing in higher-quality paint can also reduce the need for frequent touch-ups, offering better value over time.

How To Choose The Right Paint For Your Home

Selecting the appropriate paint is pivotal in transforming your home’s appearance and ensuring its longevity. Whether you’re painting the interior or the exterior, the right choice not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also protects the surfaces. Here are some guidelines to help you make informed decisions for both interior and exterior painting projects.

Choosing Interior Paint For Walls, Furniture, Cabinets and More

When choosing paint for the interior of your home, consider the room’s function and the ambiance you wish to create. Durability and washability are key for high-traffic areas such as kitchens and bathrooms, making semi-gloss or satin finishes ideal choices due to their ease of cleaning and resistance to moisture. For living rooms and bedrooms, eggshell or matte finishes provide a soft, inviting texture that hides imperfections well. Also, opt for low-VOC or VOC-free paints to ensure better indoor air quality, especially in bedrooms and children’s rooms.

How To Choose the Right Exterior House Paint

Exterior paint must withstand varying weather conditions, from scorching sun to freezing temperatures. High-quality latex paint is often recommended for its flexibility and durability, resisting cracking and fading over time. Consider the finish based on the surface: satin finishes work well for siding because they hide imperfections and clean easily, while glossy finishes are better for trim and doors due to their resistance to wear. Additionally, color choice can impact maintenance; lighter colors reflect the sun and may help keep your home cooler, while darker colors may fade faster but absorb heat, useful in colder climates.

Contact Bear Mountain Custom Painting

As the leading painting contractor in Alpharetta, we’ve helped hundreds of clients choose a paint and transform the interior or exterior of their house. We also offer house painting in Buford and the entire surrounding area. We offer complimentary quotes to anyone in the area, and we’d love to hear from you.