Summer is officially here and with it comes late nights and long weekends outside enjoying our incredible Rhode Island weather. Now more than ever our homes have become our central hub for work, play, and entertainment. However you enjoy your outdoor area, a great looking, well-maintained deck is essential for enjoying your view from your back deck.
Over time, decks begin to show signs of natural wear and tear that need to be addressed. Most importantly, taking care of your deck will help keep your home protected from damage. Thankfully, our experts at Bruno Painting have put together a list of signs to look for so you know when your deck needs to be repaired.
The most common material for decks in Rhode Island is pressure-treated lumber. For many decades, this sturdy material was the default choice for builders on the classic coast. As with any natural building material, repeated exposure to the elements will cause wood to swell, split, crack, cup, and warp in humid, precipitous climates. Exposed screws or nails from splintering wood, fading or discolored boards, or boards that are soft and spongy to the touch are all clear signs that your deck needs to be repaired.
Deck railing and handrails are other common areas of your deck that require regular attention. Loose handrails can pose a serious hazard to you and your guests if left to weather and wear down over time. Railing is a key component to your deck’s aesthetic and to its function, most especially if you have a raised deck and the railing protects against a fall.
If your deck is attached to your home and has wood that is exposed, moisture can seep into joists, ledger boards, and siding of your home that is attached to your deck. This can ultimately expose your foundation to excessive moisture that may lead to larger issues such as mold, mildew, and decay. As long as your deck is cared for properly and regularly maintained over the years, your deck can support your home’s health, instead of causing damage to it.
A wooden deck shows obvious signs when it is time for a new coat of paint or stain. Previous coats of sealant will begin to fade and peel revealing exposed wood underneath. This can happen with heavy foot traffic, weather, and everyday life.
Surfaces needing to be repainted or restained should be completely cleaned and dry before applying a stain. Due to the necessary drying time for stains, the forecast will need to call for clear, sunny days with warm temperatures and low humidity to allow the stain to set properly. Without these conditions, your stain may not bind properly and may need to be reapplied.
There are pros and cons to both painting and staining your deck. Some prefer stain because it allows the natural wood grain of your deck to show through. With stain, an all-in-one protective layer with a wood preservative is already incorporated. On the other hand, paint can provide an added layer of protection, as well as a different look and aesthetic.
Regular cleaning and treatment of your deck is a great way to extend the life of your deck. On average, decks are typically repainted or restained every two to three years. This can vary, though, depending on how much you utilize your deck space.
While pressure-treated wood is one of the more common materials for residential outdoor decking, many homeowners are opting for more durable, upscale alternatives such as exotic woods like ipe and tigerwood. Other homeowners are utilizing composite deck materials (sometimes referred to as ‘plastic wood’) to reduce deck maintenance needs and enjoy a more splinter-free deck experience.
When you see signs that your deck needs to be repaired, our experienced carpenters can remove your old decking and replace it with any of these newer materials. During our consultation with you, we’ll discuss the pros and cons of each type of decking material. This will allow you to choose what fits your design aesthetic and your budget.
Bruno Painting has been built on core values like integrity, humility, attitude, discipline, and excellence. These values are why the mission to uphold and care for surfaces and relationships is so important with every project and interaction our company has. We focus on building long-lasting relationships with our team and clients to provide the best service possible. No matter your home project, we desire to bring great service with trust, honesty, and dedication as if we were working on our own homes. Contact us today to set up a free estimate and let us transform your home this summer.
Exterior paint projects aren’t always at the forefront of a homeowner’s mind. Think about it, when was the last time your home’s exterior was painted? If it was before 2011, your home may be overdue for an update. Professional contractors recommend homes be repainted every 5 to 10 years in order to keep you and your investment protected and healthy.
The benefits of taking care of your home’s exterior are far-reaching. To understand the advantages of having your home’s exterior painted, our experts at Bruno Painting have put together the top four reasons to have your home’s exterior painted this Spring or Summer.
Regular protection of your exterior surfaces ensures the longevity and health of your home. At its essence, paint is a barrier between your surfaces and the elements. By maintaining this layer of protection, you minimize the exposure your surfaces have to weather damage, insects, sun, dust, mold, and mildew.
Signs to look for when considering if your paint is failing to provide protection are easy to spot. Look for areas of paint that are peeling, flaking, bubbling, or cracking. These are signs that your paint has been compromised and will need attention. When it comes to painting the old saying rings true: an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Using paint to protect your home is a relatively inexpensive way to maintain your home's surfaces.
Before your home’s exterior is repainted, a good painting contractor will inspect all the surfaces, including your trim, siding, windows, and doors. If they find peeling, fading, bubbling, or any other paint failures, your painter will repair the area before they begin the complete exterior painting work. Doing so can keep your home from deteriorating and prevent you from having more expensive repairs in the future.
When repairs are necessary, finding the root cause of damage is imperative. Water damage, for example, can be caused by permeating rain or other precipitous weather we experience on the classic coast. No matter what the source of the damage is, preventing the source from causing recurring damages and making the necessary repairs is the only way to ensure that your home will not face the same situation in the future. Typically affected surfaces or spots to watch are windows, gutters, roofs, and doorways, all of which may be exposed to excess water.
At the end of the day, your home is one of the greatest investments you’ll ever make. Protecting your investment and ensuring the return on your home is as high as possible can be accomplished, in part, by keeping up with the maintenance and painting of your home’s exterior. When you maintain your home, you will prevent it from diminishing in value over time.
Newer-built homes are often painted with a lower grade of paint and applied with fewer coats than a high-quality paint job. While this allows a home to pass inspection, cutting corners by using below-grade paints won’t provide a durable, long-lasting paint finish. Professional painters have access to commercial-grade paints and primers that are engineered and designed to outlast and outperform many of the paints that a consumer can buy at a home improvement store. The results are longer lasting and less frequent need to repaint your home's surfaces, saving you time and money in the long run.
Paint is primarily made up of three components: solvents, binders, and pigments. Pigments provide color and add depth and character to your home. Over time, pigments that are exposed to the sun and precipitation will fade leaving behind a chalky dull appearance. If your home looks remarkably different today than it did five years ago, it indicates that it may be time to paint the exterior of your home.
Updating the color of your home can also boost curb appeal. If you are thinking of selling your home or just want to enjoy the beauty of your outdoor areas, consider a color change to brighten up and bring positive attention to your home’s exterior. Making a lasting impression, not only boosts the overall aesthetic of your home but can make a large difference in your resale value if and when you choose to sell your home.
Regular maintenance of your home’s exterior is important regardless of the materials used to build it. Protection for your home this Spring can extend the longevity of your home’s surfaces as well as create a beautiful and welcoming home for you and your family.
At Bruno Painting, our mission has always been “to uphold and care for surfaces and relationships.” Our highly skilled team of painters and carpenters shows this high level of care in each and every project we take on. We have restored Rhode Island homes to their highest potential with our services that reach well beyond painting. Contact us to discuss your exterior painting and other home improvement projects.
There’s an old Czech proverb that says, “A good neighbor increases the value of your property.” If you’re lucky, your neighbors will take good care of their homes. Your neighbors will appreciate you as a ‘good’ neighbor as well if you also take care of your home’s appearance. There are some excellent ways to improve your home's curb appeal, not only to make your home a more beautiful space for you to enjoy but also to increase the value of your property and maybe even the property of your neighbors.
While you shouldn't judge a book by its cover, many people do judge a home based on its outside appearance. A good-looking home with excellent curb appeal goes far in the real estate market. Drawing upon our decades of painting, remodeling, and carpentry experience, we've compiled our top 5 tips for you to increase your home's curb appeal.
Pressure washing is a quick, affordable, and satisfying way to clean your home’s exterior surfaces and brighten up your outdoor space. By using specialized nozzles, water or cleaning solution can penetrate through oil, dirt, pollutants, and other buildup on and around your home.
Pressure washing is like a before and after makeover that allows your house, walkways, and the other hard surfaces around your home to look their absolute best. A word from the professionals — not all pressure washers are equal. If you are unsure which surfaces can be pressure washed or the best power nozzle to use, let a professional pressure wash your home, instead of doing it yourself. Using incorrect nozzles or power on surfaces not made for pressure washing can actually damage the surfaces, instead of cleaning them.
not only makes them look good but actually can prevent future damage from occurring. Simple steps like caulking and making repairs keeps your windows looking great and your home sealed and safe. These minor repairs can then be paired with window cleaning and updates.
Shutters and curtains that are bright and uniform will make your home look its best inside and out. Allowing natural light to flood into your home can make your home look more attractive and provide an upbeat space. In a day and age where most house hunters have initial searches via the web, good photos with well-kept windows can help sell homes.
A relatively inexpensive yet highly effective way to boost your curb appeal is by applying a new coat of paint. While exterior surfaces of homes found in Portsmouth and Newport are designed to withstand our harsh weather conditions, over time they begin to show signs of wear. One of the signs that your home’s exterior paint is wearing down is a dull, lackluster look.
Dull paint can make a home look as though it isn’t being cared for, which is something that potential homebuyers may avoid. For those not planning on selling their home soon, fresh paint not only looks good but also acts as a barrier of protection between the elements and your home. Reducing the risk of moisture and rot taking hold is just one of the many benefits of maintaining and painting your home. Another option to give your home improved curb appeal is repainting your front door a new color. Home exterior paint's lifespan varies depending on many factors but should be redone about every 5-7 years.
One of the most overlooked areas that highly influences curb appeal is the condition of your roof. Signs that your roof may need work include loose or missing shingles, moss, or algae growth, and streaked or dingy spots. While these may be unappealing, they can also indicate damage beneath the surface which will need immediate attention. We recommend scheduling a contractor to come and inspect your roof to be sure there are no areas that need to be repaired or replaced.
You don’t need to have a green thumb to make your lawn and surrounding areas look great for curb appeal. Adding planters with bright flowers and long grasses can give your home that coveted coastal vibe. Mulch can be used near your foundation to reduce root growth and give your home a uniform base. Lighted paths and ornamental lights around your front entryway make a home look more appealing, well-cared for, and allow for your home’s curb appeal to be appreciated into the evening hours.
Whether you are getting ready to sell your home or simply want to enjoy your home’s exterior, curb appeal is a mood-boosting, price-increasing, great way to make your home look and feel better. If you have already started working to increase your home’s curb appeal, or if you don’t know where to start, the experts at Bruno Painting can help you in making your home look its best! Upholding and caring for surfaces and relationships is at the heart of our top-quality work.
Picture from: Finepaintsofeurope.com
Making your home a unique and comfortable space is at the forefront of many homeowners’ minds. From charming kitchens to cozy living rooms, making your home a pleasant, safe haven has never been more important. While it is a commonly known fact that the color of a room can influence your mood and how you feel in a space, the brand of paint you use can elevate your sense of pride in your home as well.
Many homeowners in Rhode Island have been trading out standard paint brands with ones like Fine Paints of Europe® to complete their home projects. Our professional painters at Bruno Painting are certified Fine Paints of Europe painters and want to share all about this brand: who they are, why they stand out, what customers have been saying, and how it may be the perfect fit for your home.
Picture from: finepaintsofeurope.com
Since 1987, Fine Paints of Europe has been an independent company that imports high-quality paint from the Netherlands. As a family-owned and operated business, their service and goal is straightforward; to provide the finest paints to homeowners, professionals, and the architectural and design communities. They are dedicated to bringing only high-quality Dutch paint to the U.S. through local reputable retailers.
The quality of paint you choose affects both the immediate finish quality and the long-term durability. Fine Paints of Europe contains zero fillers and only superior pigments, binders, and solvents. While these components are found in every paint, the quality of their formula is simply unmatched.
With high-end ingredients, paint lasts longer, provides richer color, and performs best, standing the test of time. While less expensive brands use fillers to stretch the paint to increase coverage and lower costs, higher quality paints do not. Surfaces painted with lower quality paints will need to be repainted more often which can become just as expensive as using a high-quality brand like Fine Paints of Europe.
Proper application, including preparing your surfaces, will influence the longevity of any painting project. With a well-prepped surface by a professional painter, a project using Fine Paints of Europe is expected to last 8-10 years–well over the average length which most U.S. homeowners wait before repainting. Some have even reported having great results upwards of 15 years later with only minor necessary touch-ups.
Regardless of how long you are looking to go between repainting your surfaces, a high-quality paint will retain an even finish, require fewer coats of paint during application, and will better stand up to everyday wear-and-tear. Ultimately, better quality paint will provide your home with a more durable, brilliant finish that will protect your surfaces for a longer period of time.
Customers have been extremely happy with the results they have seen using Fine Paints of Europe. Those who have been to the Netherlands can attest that Dutch doors and colors are an incredible sight to see. Bringing those vibrant hues to homes creates a welcoming and unique environment that US homeowners will be excited to select and have on their homes.
Many painting customers are happy with the low environmental impact of Fine Paints of Europe. As a U.S. Green Building Council member, they follow environmental guidelines and requirements to ensure that these paints are safe and effective. These low-VOC paints guarantee low odor and contaminants in every gallon, which safeguards those with respiratory problems.
Skilled professional painters want to exceed their customers’ expectations with every project. Painting contractors have not only seen delighted customers, but they themselves are impressed with the ease of application and superior quality Fine Paints of Europe offers. The quality of this paint outmatches many of its competitors.
The creators of this paint value fine finishes and workmanship so highly that they strongly recommend their clients utilize an experienced, professional painter when using their product. In fact, Fine Paints of Europe has created a Master & Certified Painters Program for clients to identify which painting contractors employ the most skilled craftsmen. Holding this high standard for professional painters speaks to Fine Paints of Europe’s commitment to meeting a higher standard of excellence.
Our owner Rick Bruno has dedicated himself to continually improving his trade. Rick has recently graduated from the Fine Paints of Europe Certified Painters Program and continually challenges himself to bring quality work to every home in Portsmouth and the rest of the classic coast.
Spring is slowly blooming around Portsmouth and with it brings excitement in the air. If the season of re-birth has inspired you to repaint any part of your home, contact us and let our skilled professional painters transform your home this Spring.
Spring is upon us. It represents a time of rebirth and fresh starts. As you make your plans for this season, be sure to include a refresh and reset of your home. Take the opportunity to evaluate the interior and exterior and prepare for the warmer days ahead. The experts at Bruno Painting have created a Spring Home Maintenance Checklist that goes beyond basic spring cleaning, detailing a variety of projects for homeowners. If you find you need a hand, Bruno Painting is here for you every step of the way!
It’s a good idea to take care of your interior projects during the cold and wet weather season. As soon as the weather breaks, many of us who’ve stayed inside because of the cold may find it difficult to spend time indoors working on and finishing up the projects we started. To ensure your interior projects are completed before the Spring weather arrives, check these small indoor projects to be sure your home’s interior is refreshed and ready.
Inspect your screens to make sure there are no holes or gaps, especially since mosquito season is coming.
Fluctuations in temperature and exposure to damp, humid air will break caulk down over time. Look for cracks, gaps, or discoloration around all windows and doors. If you’re unsure about the condition of the caulk, you can also gently pick at the edge; if it crumbles or easily separates, then the caulk needs to be replaced.
Every season you should test and dust all home safety products, including smoke, gas leak, and carbon monoxide detectors. Be sure you have backup batteries on hand. Nothing is more annoying than a smoke detector whose battery is low and then, not having the ability to change out the old battery right away.
Make sure your fire extinguishers are in good condition and haven’t expired. If your extinguisher requires professional inspection or recharge, contact the manufacturer or your local fire department for help.
Inspect faucets, under sinks, around dishwashers, and under and around washing machines for standing water or evidence of leaks. Look for discolored pipes, water spots, peeling paint, soft wood, mildew, or mold. Contact a contractor or plumber immediately if you suspect a leak.
Check to make sure lighting, appliances, and other essentials are running effectively. Also, consider conducting an energy audit to evaluate your energy consumption. If replacements are necessary or would cut future utility costs, research the cost-benefit of newer energy-efficient models.
Plan to replace your central air filters every three months. New, unobstructed filters ensure your system is both running efficiently and pumping in cool, clean air.
After spending winter inside, staring at the same walls, you may decide it’s time for an update. Check out our blog for some inspiration for your next painting or carpentry update.
Termites are typically a nuisance between March and June. If you notice a large number of winged insects flying out of one location this spring, it’s time to call pest control experts. After the infestation is addressed, look for a contractor to replace the rotten wood and prevent future problems.
As the weather breaks, there are several outdoor inspections you’ll want to make to ensure your home is in the best condition possible.
While inspecting a roof sounds like a task requiring a roofer, an initial roof inspection can be done relatively easily – no ladders required. Simply use binoculars or take a photo on a smartphone and zoom in to inspect your roof. You want to make sure there is no damage to your shingles, chimney, or vents. Take note of any debris or grime left over from the winter and contact us to wash your roof if needed.
Winter weather and disuse can lead to a buildup of dirt and debris on and around outdoor AC units. Make sure all sides of your unit are clear and free of debris or landscaping that might inhibit sufficient airflow. Use a broom or brush and a hose to clear accumulated dirt on the grates.
Clogged gutters and downspouts can lead to rot, which can further snowball into multiple problems including bug infestations and rotten wood trim. Check this project off your list as quickly as possible to prevent problems from fall buildup and to prepare for spring rains.
Utilize warmer spring days to reseal exterior wood such as fences, decks, and railing. Resealing every year or two will help your outdoor structures last longer and look better.
Winter is a great time to plan and Spring is a great time to schedule exterior painting projects. The fresh colors of Spring offer great inspiration for a new exterior color. Consider scheduling the painting projects for your Spring home maintenance checklist with your local residential painter now to beat the impending warm-weather rush.
After harsh winter weather, your patios, decks, driveways, walkways, outdoor furniture, and siding could all use a thorough cleaning. While your home is getting pressure washed, make note of any irregularities and address problems or damages before they grow.
Check decks and wooden walkways for loose nails, rotten boards, discoloration, and buildup of debris between boards. Routine care will extend both the life and beauty of big-ticket items like a deck. Simple care like hammering down loose nails or sweeping in between boards, up to larger tasks, such as replacing individual planks, can significantly increase a deck’s longevity.
Finally coming out of our winter hibernation can feel exciting, but that initial enthusiasm may wane when we start going over our spring to-do list. While a homeowner’s top priority is providing regular maintenance and care for their home, remember that you don’t have to do it alone. If your schedule is already full or you feel a project is beyond your ability, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We have expert designers, carpenters, and painters on staff to help you with all of your needs for your Spring home maintenance checklist.
At Bruno Painting our mission is “Upholding and Caring for Surfaces and Relationships.” Whether you need a team of excellent painters or expert carpenters, we are ready to help you with all your home’s maintenance and updating needs!
Despite a global pandemic, the housing market boomed in 2020 and shows no signs of slowing in early 2021. People are selling their homes with gusto—the freedom to work from home has afforded many people location independence, while others have needed more square footage to accommodate life in quarantine.
With so many houses going up for sale, it is more important than ever to make sure your house looks its best in order to compete in today’s market. Before you and your real estate agent photograph and list your home, make sure you prepare your home to sell by doing the repairs, updates, and refreshments that will make it appealing to potential buyers.
No matter the age of your home, consider completing any major repairs that may be revealed during a home inspection. To prepare your home for sale, check out the roof, pipes, foundation, electrical, and other systems.
If you’re uncertain about what to look for, consider having a professional pre-sale home inspection to identify potential problems that could lower the value of your home or derail its sale. Completing pre-sale repairs allows you to list your home for top value with confidence. Be aware, however, that if any unwanted house conditions are found during this inspection, you’ll be responsible to share them on the Property Disclosure.
After making essential repairs, the next priority to prepare your home to sell is updating it to make it modern and inviting. The two areas potential buyers consider most when looking at a home are the kitchen and bathrooms, so focus on updates in those areas first.
For a kitchen update, small changes can create an entirely new look. Replacing cabinet knobs and pulls, refinishing wooden cabinets, or re-grouting tiles can quickly and relatively inexpensively upgrade a dated kitchen. You can also replace a worn kitchen faucet or install new light fixtures to help brighten and modernize the space.
In the bathroom, the same concept applies––you can make relatively inexpensive changes to achieve a new look. For an outdated bathroom, you may want to replace the vanity and toilet, or simply the toilet seat. You should also check the bathtub or shower to see whether refinishing, de-liming, or re-grouting would help them shine.
Next, refresh your home with deep cleaning and painting. While you may not have the budget to complete expensive repairs or remodels, most sellers can add value and appeal to their home with this frugal step.
Plan to deep clean your entire house. Make sure to clean easy to ignore places like baseboards, light fixtures, and closets. Tackle the buildup on often-touched electrical faceplates and the hard water stains on shower doors. If possible, plan to get carpets and tiles professionally cleaned to make sure your house is looking its best. If your house has been painted in the last year, clean the walls to remove any scuffs or stains. If it's been longer than a year, repainting can make a big difference.
Painting is one of the least expensive ways to make your house look clean, refreshed, and inviting to buyers. If you decide to paint, here are a few things to keep in mind:
Once you have followed these steps to prepare your home to sell, you’ll be ready for staging and photography. Working with a professional photographer will showcase the features and updates you have made to your home. Refreshed spaces and high-quality photos are especially important in 2021 as many buyers have come to rely heavily on online house tours to help them purchase a home.
No matter where you are in your home preparation process, we are here to help. Our mission at Bruno Painting is Upholding and Caring for Surfaces and Relationships. Our teams of professional painters and carpenters are eager to help you to get your home ready to sell for the highest return on your investment. Reach out to get an estimate for your painting, carpentry, and remodeling needs!
Getting a house painting quote shouldn’t feel like a guessing game. Whether you’re refreshing a single room or giving your entire home a new look, an accurate estimate is key to avoiding surprises. From materials and labor to prep work and cleanup, knowing what to expect ensures a smooth process. In this guide, we’ll break down what makes a quote reliable and how to choose the right painter for the job.
Before you start reaching out to painters, take some time to understand what your house painting project entails. Consider the size of the area you need painted, the type of finish you prefer, and any specific repairs that might be needed. Knowing these details upfront will help ensure you get a house painting quote that reflects your actual needs.
Factors Influencing Cost Include:
It’s always a good idea to get multiple quotes before committing to a painter. This allows you to compare services, pricing, and professionalism. If one quote is significantly lower than the others, it could be a red flag that the quality of work may be where the “savings” lies.
Hiring a licensed and insured contractor protects you in case something goes wrong during the job. Always verify credentials before signing a contract.
Bruno Painting isn’t just about flawless paint jobs—we also specialize in custom carpentry to bring even more value to your home improvement project. Whether you need crown molding, wainscoting, trim repairs, cabinets installed, or a whole new wall, our expert carpentry team can enhance your space. Combining painting and carpentry in one project offers seamless results, ensuring that newly installed or repaired woodwork is finished perfectly with a fresh coat of paint. Instead of hiring multiple contractors, our integrated approach saves you time, reduces hassle, and guarantees a cohesive look throughout your home.
For homeowners looking to refresh their interiors, custom carpentry can add architectural detail and character, elevating a space from basic to breathtaking. Picture a freshly painted room with elegant coffered ceilings, chair rail, or new cabinets. If your exterior needs attention, we also repair or replace rotted wood, ensuring a durable, professional finish that lasts.
By bundling your painting and carpentry needs with Bruno Painting, you get a streamlined process and exceptional craftsmanship in one package. Our team works in sync, ensuring that every surface is prepped, painted, and perfected without delays or miscommunications. Whether you're updating your home's aesthetic or addressing structural repairs, our custom carpentry services paired with expert painting make for a transformation that looks polished and professional. Contact us today to learn how we can bring your vision to life with precision and care!
Getting a house painting quote isn’t just about finding the cheapest option—it’s about finding the best value. Look for experienced professionals who provide detailed estimates, use quality materials, and stand behind their work. Investing in a skilled painter will ensure a job well done, saving you headaches (and repaints) in the future.
When it comes to painting your home, don’t settle for vague estimates or questionable quality. At Bruno Painting, we provide clear, detailed house painting quotes that ensure you know exactly what to expect. Our expert team delivers top-notch craftsmanship, using high-quality materials to bring your vision to life. Contact us today for your free quote and let’s transform your space together!
Interior painting is one of the easiest, least expensive ways to improve and revitalize your home. Finding the right interior paint colors combination will, not only tie a room together, but most importantly will make your entire house tell a visual story as you and your house guests move from one room to the next.
Starting this colorful storyline can be a challenge but thankfully the masterful color experts at Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams have recommended color palettes for each room of your home. The question is, “Are certain interior paint colors better for specific rooms?”
Our answer to that question is, yes, “Specific colors in different rooms serve different purposes and can even alter your mood and how you feel while in the room.” There’s that, but of course, there’s a lot more to color theory and how different colors impact the way you feel in each room in your house. Here are a few tips as well as suggestions to consider when selecting the best interior paint colors for each room in your house, as you plan out your interior paint project.
Most people desire their bedroom to be a relaxing, calming space. As a sanctuary of sorts, your bedroom should feel like a safe haven where your cares and stress melt away. To create this harmonious and calming effect, muted blues and muted greens both work well. Rosemary Green - SW 6187 from Sherwin-Williams, for example, elevates any space while bringing a tranquil feeling.
Photo from: Sherwin Williams
The kitchen is the lifeline in every home. The kitchen is the heartbeat that brings life to every other aspect of your home. Choosing an interior paint color that expresses your family’s heart is an incredible way to bring an emotional connection from you to your home to your family and guests. A pure and crisp look to a kitchen with a subtle addition of color like Hawthorne Yellow from Benjamin Moore can radiate that feeling of life and warmth to the rest of your home.
Photo from: Benjamin Moore
There is a great amount of flexibility in color choice for your living room because it can and should be an expression of what you want it to be. For the idealist or optimist, bringing light and hope to a room can easily be accomplished through color. This Cloud White and Pale Oak, both from Benjamin Moore, bring a sense of optimism into your home.
Photo from: Benjamin Moore
If a bolder, more grounded feeling is what you desire for your living room, consider a deep green. Cape Verde - SW 6482 from Sherwin-Williams promotes a peaceful and harmonious balance to any space.
Photo from: Sherwin Williams
Children also need a space to feel safe and their bedrooms are the place for them to unwind after a busy day. For a calming yet bright approach, try Oxford Gray from Benjamin Moore which actually gives the room a cool, blue feel. If your child’s space is small, consider an accent wall matched with a light neutral or white.
Photo from: Benjamin Moore
As the first place you and your guests see upon entering your home, it is important to set the tone with just the right foyer color. Many of our clients ask, “What’s the best color for the foyer? A dark, dramatic color or a light and bright color?” Our answer … “The color choice for your foyer depends somewhat on the size of your foyer area, how open it is, how much natural light it gets, and how it’s connected to other walls without a room break.” Your foyer color choice can be difficult if all your space is open. Even if there’s a corner break, you must consider the nearby colors and hues to be sure the flow of the foyer is harmonious with the nearby spaces.
Cyberspace - SW 7076 by Sherwin-Williams can boldly make a statement to your guests unlike any other.
Photo from: Sherwin Williams
Smaller spaces such as bathrooms can be overlooked when it comes to interior painting updates. Instead of a remodel with a new vanity or tiling which can become expensive, an update to your bathroom’s paint can do the trick in transforming the space. A green hue like Prescott Green from Benjamin Moore is great in this space, where the serene feeling from the color can make you feel like you’re at the spa.
Photo from: Benjamin Moore
The best part of having a powder room is that you can express yourself in ways that you may not be able to in other rooms in your home. Maximizing these small spaces as a statement piece with a bold color can pack a punch and bring that wow factor.
Alexandrite - SW 0060 from Sherwin Williams is just one of many interior paint colors that shows how to pull off this beautiful bold approach.
Photo from: Sherwin Williams
Bruno Painting has been serving homeowners in Rhode Island, in the Newport area and beyond, since 2004. Our mission has always been Upholding and Caring for Surfaces and Relationships. We take great pride in the work we do for homeowners and area excited to help you with the process of choosing the right colors for your home. Reach out to schedule your interior painting estimate!
When you take on a home painting project yourself, you’ll find an almost excessive number of paint types within each paint brand from which to choose. Though there are many choices, it can be difficult to know which paint is best for your specific painting project.
When you hire a painting professional to paint your home, on the other hand, you’ll have a wide variety of professional paint brands at your disposal, plus a painting team with the knowledge and information needed to select the best paint for your particular home and its unique characteristics.
We’ve put together a list of some of the best interior and exterior paint brands for your home. You can use this information to better understand all the different paint technologies available and be better able to have a conversation with your painting contractor about the best paints for your home.
Source: Benjamin Moore
For interior paint, some paint characteristics we believe are important are paint thickness, paint coverage or spread, fumes or paint odor, “green” considerations, color variety, sheen selection, specific chemical and preservative ingredients, and ease of application.
When we consider if a paint is “green,” we look at the presence or absence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). VOCs release gasses into the air that cause a strong paint odor, and which can be harmful to people and animals, possibly causing respiratory problems as well as harm the air quality.
Along with these factors, we look at customer satisfaction and overall performance for the price. Here are our top recommendations for interior paints:
Source: finepaintsofeurope.com
Fine Paints of Europe created the Eurolux™ Interior Acrylic Paint line to serve as an odorless acrylic paint option, which has been perfected over the last two decades. The coating quality is unmatched by this remarkable paint. Many have compared the durability and scrubbable strength tile, with the same washability! It is both quick drying and Low VOC, making this a wonderful option for lasting beauty in any home. We recommend this in both kitchens and bathrooms due to its impeccable ability to be cleaned.
As an alternative, Eco™ Waterborne Paints by Fine Paints of Europe offer the benefits of both alkyd and acrylic formulated paints. With easy clean-up and application, this self-leveling paint dries to a beautiful finish while also being Low VOC paint, making it an eco-friendly choice. We recommend this paint for dining rooms, family rooms, and even bedrooms.
Source: Benjamin Moore
Aura by Benjamin Moore is another paint we recommend for homeowners specifically looking for a paint that goes on effortlessly. The Gennex color-technology in this paint has maximum performance for long-lasting results. As a paint and primer in one, this paint dries quickly and adapts well to different surfaces. We recommend Aura in bedrooms for its low VOCs and minimal-odor qualities. Additionally, Aura Bath and Spa is designed specifically for high-humidity areas like your bathroom.
Last, but not least, for interior paint Regal Select by Benjamin Moore has performed well for more than 50 years. With its unique formula, a wide variety of beautiful colors, and an easy-to-clean finish for all sheens, this paint is one of our favorites.
As a paint and primer in one, Regal Select performs consistently on many different surfaces. The greatest advantage is that it has zero VOC and low odor making this a versatile choice for any room in your home.
Exterior surfaces require paints that match the needs caused by local conditions. For homes that are near a body of water, for example, mildew-resistant paint will protect best; a stain- and dirt-resistant paint performs well in urban areas. Our exterior paint recommendations are based on specific attributes that may apply to your home’s unique needs.
Benjamin Moore’s Regal Select Exterior Paints offer optimum coverage with protection and durability. This paint holds up its appearance to weathering very nicely. This is due in part to the alkyd technology, which provides ultimate adherence to all surfaces. Its resistance to cracking, dirt, mildew, and color change make this a good overall choice for homes whose exterior requires extra protection from moisture and other elements.
Source: finepaintsofeurope.com
EUROLUXⓇ Housepaint by Fine Paints of Europe provides the advantages of both traditional oil formulas and modern acrylic features with a state-of-the-art formulation. Thanks to the advanced, durable coating this paint application is known for easy use. Weather resistance and environmental conscientiousness are associated with this paint which boasts superior adhesion to surfaces with flexibility making it a great choice for exterior paint as it stands up to numerous cycles of contraction and expansion that we see on the classic coast.
We use a number of different paint lines from these companies outside of these and always prioritize the highest quality paints. These are a simple selection of some of the best options as a starting point for you to consider. There are many paints on the market, with professional-grade paints offering the most technologically advanced qualities. Choosing one or more of these paints that are manufactured using the latest in paint-performance technologies will give your home greater protection and a better paint finish in the long run.
We know paint selection can be difficult, even confusing. Our mission at Bruno Painting is Upholding and Caring for Surfaces and Relationships. We take great pride in the carpentry and painting projects we do for Rhode Island homeowners and are excited to help you with the process of choosing the right paint for your home's interior and exterior. Contact us for a fresh coat of paint for your home!
Spending more time at home means you start noticing things. Outdated cabinets. Faded walls. Maybe that awkward layout you've been tolerating for years. You might be thinking about interior painting, refreshing your kitchen, or finally taking down that wall that divides your space in all the wrong ways. And while you're dreaming up these ideas, one question tends to pop up: which home improvement projects offer the highest ROI?
You may have seen listed homes that depict a design fantasyland: emerald green carpet, neon kitchen tile, and an all-avocado colored bathroom. But in reality, most of us make changes with resale value in mind.
Good real estate agents will gently remind you that your bold backsplash might not charm the next buyer. So unless you plan to stay forever, it makes sense to focus on home improvement projects with highest ROI. These are updates that improve your lifestyle now and increase your property value later.
Should you remodel? Paint? Redecorate? Tear out a wall? The answer depends on your goals, your budget, and how long you plan to stay in the home. But painting is a consistent winner when it comes to return on investment.
When you're home day in and day out, your mood is shaped by your environment. New furniture can make a room feel lighter. A statement light fixture can wake up a tired ceiling. Interior decorating has a real impact on how you feel, but it can get expensive fast.
Buying a new sofa, replacing rugs, or hiring a designer to bring it all together can take a serious chunk of your budget. And those updates rarely return what you spent when it comes time to sell. Decorating has value, but it usually isn’t one of the top home improvement projects with highest ROI.
Painting, on the other hand, transforms a room quickly and affordably. It brightens, calms, or energizes a space depending on the colors you choose. And it's easier to update over time than your larger furniture pieces. Painting improves how your home feels and increases its value at the same time.
As the seasons shift and more time is spent indoors, air quality becomes a bigger concern. Some homeowners add filtration systems, dehumidifiers, or upgraded HVAC units. These can be useful, especially for those with allergies or asthma.
But one of the most overlooked home improvement projects with highest ROI is paint. High-quality paint acts as a moisture barrier, helping to reduce mold and allergens. When you use low or no-VOC products, you improve indoor air quality without adding toxins.
Painting won't replace a filtration system, but it supports the same goals. You get cleaner surfaces, less dust buildup, and healthier air overall.
Remodeling can completely change the look and feel of your home, but it's also costly. Kitchens and bathrooms are especially pricey and may require permits, contractors, and weeks of disruption. If you are staying in the home for many years, the investment might make sense.
But if you are focused on home improvement projects with highest ROI, painting is one of the best paths forward. It costs far less and offers excellent returns. Fresh interior or exterior paint shows potential buyers that the home has been cared for. It also improves first impressions instantly.
Houses with recent, professional paint jobs often sell faster and for higher prices. While a remodel might add luxury, painting adds value and marketability without straining your finances.
Since the pandemic, people care more than ever about how their homes function and feel. They want calm, clean, flexible spaces that support work, school, and rest. At the same time, they want to be smart with their money and pick the best home improvement projects with highest ROI.
That’s why painting continues to rank high among home improvement projects with highest ROI. It delivers on emotional impact and practical benefits. It works across every style of home. And it prepares properties for the market with minimal investment.
Painting may not be flashy, but it works. It protects surfaces, refreshes the atmosphere, and enhances curb appeal. It makes your home feel newer and more welcoming.
If you're staying, you’ll enjoy the clean, fresh look every day. If you’re preparing to sell, buyers notice it right away. And because painting is relatively affordable and quick, it’s often the smartest choice on a long list of potential upgrades.
This is why painting holds a steady spot among the home improvement projects with highest ROI year after year.
At Bruno Painting, we’ve been helping Rhode Island homeowners increase their property value since 2004. Our professional team of painters and carpenters know how to prep properly, apply paint that lasts, and care for your home as if it were their own.
We use top-quality low-VOC paints, tailored to your home’s needs. We respect your space, communicate clearly, and work efficiently to deliver results you’ll be proud of.
Painting is more than a job to us. It’s a way to care for your home and help you make the most of your investment.
You don’t have to start a huge renovation to get meaningful results. A fresh coat of paint can protect your home, boost your mood, and add market value. When it comes to home improvement projects with highest ROI, painting is a smart, simple place to start.
Want a cost-effective update that actually improves your home’s value? Bruno Painting is here to help you plan and complete your next paint project or home improvement projects with highest ROI with craftsmanship and care. Reach out today for your estimate.
The English writer Sydney Smith once said “A comfortable house is a great source of happiness. It ranks immediately after health and a good conscience.” If this is true, then caring for your home and making it a beautiful and well-protected space is important. And now, more than ever, with all the time we’re spending at home due to COVID, have space you love is important for your mental well-being and peace of mind.
To keep your space feeling fresh and updated, it’s important to care for the walls and other painted surfaces on a regular basis to prevent your interior from feeling old, scuffed, and unclean. A healthy home starts with a fresh coat of paint every few years. Here are the top five reasons to schedule a painting contractor for your home’s interior this year.
A home that is well lived in has quite a bit of character. Sometimes character is beneficial, but not so if it means scuffed, dingy walls, or damaged surfaces. Instead of feeling homey or cozy, a home in this type of ill repair only looks like it’s not well-taken care of. Not only is it important to repair worn or damaged areas of your interior wall space, keeping up with your home’s interior maintenance is essential for a healthy home environment.
Typically speaking, interior walls are composed of materials that absorb moisture naturally. Over time, these surfaces can absorb too much moisture if exposed without a coat of paint to protect them. This means that damage internally to the structure of your home can begin to occur. Moisture within the walls can also lead to mold which is never good for your health. Thankfully, the solution is simple; a fresh coat of paint regularly applied to walls seals out moisture and gives your porous walls the protection they need.
Local professional painters have knowledge about high-quality paints and which types and brands protect your home in relation to how you live. From children to pets to the occasional recliner rubbing against the wall, paint acts as the perfect buffer between your family and your home.
Interior painting can be a surefire way to make your home a happier, more comfortable space. For new homeowners, this may be an essential step in order to make your house your own. Older colors even can feel dated and nonconforming to your style. Whatever the case may be, making the colors of your interior appealing to you should be a priority.
New colors are released yearly to help homeowners keep their homes looking sharp. Many homeowners like to stay on-trend, while others prefer to use classic colors, despite what shows as new or popular at the moment. Popular colors such as Coral Clay or Naval from Sherwin Williams and First Light or Blue Danube by Benjamin Moore can bring new life to any space. Jeweled tones like dark blues and sage greens are popular with many homeowners recently, though, Sherwin-Williams has recently introduced their 2021 palettes that show some unique color combinations and many of Benjamin Moore’s 2020 colors are lighter hues. What’s important is that your new paint color makes your home happier for you.
Older paint can influence you in more ways than one. The health and wellbeing of people indoors have become a vital piece to the improvement of paints used around the house. Advances in technology have made it possible to offer interior paint with low or zero VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds), which give off a strong paint “odor” and actually release harmful vapors.
Over time, the release of these vapors or gasses can cause respiratory or other health problems related to allergies, asthma, or other chemical-related issues. Thankfully, these issues along with allergens like dust and pet dander are kept to a minimum with interior painting, improving your home’s air quality.
Each home is unique in its imperfections and that is what often makes them special. Small imperfections add up eventually and these quaint marks can begin to make your home look unkempt.
Oftentimes, walls will have dents, scuffs, and dings from regular usage. Resurfacing and repainting your interior can remove these imperfections to give your home a pristine and refreshed look.
In a seller’s market, homeowners may need to move quickly after they sell their home, also quickly. One of the simplest and least expensive ways to get your home market-ready is by repainting. Both interior and exterior painting are a foolproof way to increase the overall value of your home.
Additionally, a professional paint job communicates to potential buyers that you’ve taken good care of your home. If your home has been on the market for a while, a paint update to neutral colors can move your home off the market faster, sometimes even over your asking price.
Not planning on selling your home soon? Not to worry, a high-quality professional paint job with the right contractor can last up to 7 years. It’s no wonder that so many make the smart investment to paint their homes.
The key to a long-lasting painting of your interior is a finding skilled contractor to prepare your surfaces correctly before completing the project. Finding a local professional that you trust and have confidence that they can meet your home’s needs is paramount.
Our Mission at Bruno Painting has been to uphold and care for surfaces and relationships. Our painting division consists of some of the most skilled professionals in all of Rhode Island. We look forward to the pleasure of helping you make your home, not only look beautiful but also provide a healthy environment for you and your family for years to come. Reach out to get an estimate for your painting, carpentry, and remodeling needs!
With the lingering warm days ahead of us and the remnants of summer still in the air, boosting your home’s curb appeal with a fresh coat of paint is a great way to wrap up this summer. While homeowners typically schedule exterior painting projects in Spring and Summer, Fall is still a good time of year to schedule your home’s facelift in Newport and surrounding cities, here in Rhode Island.
Few homeowners understand the extent of care and work professional contractors put into prepping their customers’ homes before the paint hits the brush. Thankfully, professional painters do take their time in the steps before painting to ensure the results are both long-lasting and smooth. We’ve detailed 8 essential tips to ensure your painters are focused on your exterior surface prep work for your enjoyment and home protection for years to come.
During the consultation and the planning stages of a home exterior paint project, a professional painter will take care to plan your project to perfection. The first step in this process is scheduling the painting project for days and times during the day when the weather and sun are most cooperative.
Strong winds and rain can shorten painting windows and leave your home exposed to the elements, effectively ruining your paint finish. High humidity and extreme temperatures can also influence how your paint dries and its eventual look and performance. Professional contractors know how to plan around these types of weather patterns and will ensure that your home stays safe and the best results occur throughout the entire project.
During the consultation and inspection, repairs identified will need to be taken care of before any painting begins. These sorts of repairs can include exposed wood, loose gutters and shingles, wood rot, leaking windows, damaged siding, and doors that stick. Having skilled carpenters ready and available to make these repairs provides the home or building owner with the valuable gift of ensuring the foundation is healthy for the protective coat of paint goes on. A professional painter has a keen eye to find these issues and make repairs before they become larger issues.
Once repairs have been addressed, cleaning should begin soon after. Professional contractors turn to pressure washing to cover areas that can safely and effectively be cleaned. If pressure washing doesn’t suit your home’s needs, a soft washing method or air blasting can be used. The goal in this process is to remove dirt, loose paint, and signs of mildew before advancing in your exterior project.
After your home is clean and dry, an inspection for loosened paint is conducted. Loose and flaking paint is removed with high-quality scraping tools. This stage in the project may take longer depending on how your home was cleaned. If a pressure washer wasn’t used, this step is essential to ensure your home is properly prepared.
The caulk on the exterior of a house is exposed to the sun and elements while it protects the seals around your windows and other areas. Over time, the caulk can crack and cause leaks. Any area of your home that has been caulked will need to be inspected and possibly recaulked to ensure continual protection. This includes doors, windowsills, and trim.
Once all the necessary repairs and cleaning are complete, the area will need to be prepped for painting. Protecting your landscaping should be a priority to your contractor. Using plastic wrap, tape, and other materials, your lights, plants, porch, sidewalks, and driveway will all be protected.
Depending on the number of painters in your contractor’s painting team, many of these steps can be completed simultaneously to save time between stages. It is, however, very important that your home is repaired, dried, and prepped before moving past this point. One last final inspection of each of these steps should be conducted by your contractor before priming begins.
Professional painters do not always agree about primer and its usefulness. Some professional painters believe using a primer helps your paint to adhere to your surfaces giving you better coverage that lasts longer. Other painting contractors forego the step of using a primer and, instead, paint two coats of your high-quality paint onto the surface.
Whichever way you prefer, with primer or using two coats of paint, be sure you and your painter agree and understand the best process for your home and its materials. The main and really the only consideration is the quality of the finish and its longevity.
The most crucial part of painting is allowing adequate time for your paint to dry in between coats and after the final coat. Most of the time, avoiding direct sunlight can be important, so professional contractors start with western facing sides of your building in the morning and eastern facing sides in the afternoon. However, sometimes it is useful to paint in direct sunlight, but as professional painting contractors, we know when or when to not paint in direct sunlight.
Beginning with the top of your home and working to the ground, high-quality brushes and rollers specific to your siding and paint base are used for even application. After the larger areas of your home are painted, window frames and trim are painted to ensure that your window panes dry properly. Finally, the foundation of your home is painted, if necessary.
No home project is complete until our clients are satisfied. Since 2004, our mission at Bruno Painting is Upholding and Caring for Surfaces and Relationships. We take great pride in the work we do for homeowners in the Newport area and in Rhode Island.
We’re excited to hear about your next project. Reach out and let us know about your home’s unique exterior painting project.
