Waukesha County Home

By Michael Wetoska Special to HomesPlus WAUKESHA — When painting the exterior of your home, there are as many variables as there are colors in a rainbow. Whether you're set on hiring a professional or considering doing it yourself, a little painter- ly advice comes in handy. When looking for a contractor, Mark Eschenbacher, residential general manager of CertaPro Waukesha, stresses that it's important for potential cus- tomers to do their own research. Eschenbacher generally gives two tips for potential buyers to make sure they do their research properly. "First, it's important to make sure they have documentation or proof of insurance," he said about prospective contractors. "They are legally required to have it, but for the homeowner's protection, they should make sure that they have it." In addition to that, he also added that it's important for potential buyers to make sure to get references of homes that the company under consideration has painted in the area. And don't just take the reference's word. "What this does is it gives the potential customer the ability to go out and observe the previous work that the company has done," he said. Although hiring someone to paint is the more conventional method, there are plenty of tips for people who like to take on the job themselves. Don Grossman, owner of Grossman and Sons Painting in Waukesha, stressed that it's important to buy adequate mate- rials to get the job done right. C O N T E N T S While watering hangs on plant type, maturity and weather, try to mimic rain Learning the ins and outs of air conditioning units Exterior moulding, trim give homes that custom look A publication of the Waukesha Freeman and Oconomowoc Enterprise • JULY 2016 Your Guide to Homes, Home Improvement, Lawn & Garden and MORE! HOMES HOMES WAUKESHA + Getting your painting issues covered If you're planning on doing your own exterior painting this summer, the pros say it pays to buy top-flight materials including paint. There are key steps before painting, including preparing the surface and doing the job in the right weather conditions. See PAINTING/Page 5 249049002

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