DO IT YOURSELF!
This section is full of videos and step by step instructions if you want to try it yourself. This is not reccomended! WE ARE PROFESSIONALS and make it look easier then it actually is. but if you want to give it a shot, be my guest!
Interior Painting
Gather your supplies: Before you begin, gather all the necessary painting supplies, including paint, paintbrushes, rollers, painter's tape, drop cloths, a paint tray, a stirring stick, and a ladder or step stool.
Prepare the room: Clear the room of furniture or move it to the center and cover it with drop cloths. Remove any fixtures or hardware that you don't want to paint, such as switch plates or outlet covers. Protect the floor by laying down drop cloths or plastic sheets.
Prepare the walls: Fill any cracks, holes, or imperfections in the walls with spackling compound. Once it's dry, sand the patched areas until they are smooth. Use painter's tape to mask off areas you don't want to paint, such as trim, windows, or ceilings.
Prime the walls (if necessary): If you're painting over a dark or heavily stained wall, or if you're using a drastically different color, it's recommended to apply a coat of primer. Priming helps the new paint adhere better and provides a uniform base.
Stir and pour the paint: Open your paint can and use a stirring stick to thoroughly mix the paint. Pour a sufficient amount of paint into a paint tray, filling it up to a level where the roller can easily dip into the paint without dripping.
Cut in the edges: Start by cutting in the edges of the room using a paintbrush. Carefully paint along the corners, edges of the ceiling, and trim where the roller might not reach easily. Take your time and ensure clean, straight lines.
Roll the walls: Dip the roller into the paint tray, removing any excess paint by rolling it against the ridges. Begin rolling the paint onto the walls, working in sections. Use a "W" or "M" motion to evenly distribute the paint and then fill in the area with vertical or horizontal strokes for a smooth finish.
Maintain a wet edge: To avoid visible lines or streaks, maintain a wet edge while painting. This means working from one section to another while the paint is still wet, slightly overlapping each stroke. Avoid letting the painted edges dry before rolling adjacent sections.
Apply additional coats: Once the first coat is dry (check the paint can for recommended drying times), evaluate if another coat is needed. Most paint colors require two coats for optimal coverage. Repeat the cutting in and rolling process for subsequent coats.
Remove painter's tape: Wait until the paint is completely dry before carefully removing the painter's tape. Slowly pull it back at a 45-degree angle to avoid peeling off any fresh paint.
Clean up: Clean your brushes, rollers, and paint tray with water or according to the paint manufacturer's instructions. Remove the drop cloths, return furniture to its place, and reattach any fixtures or hardware that were removed.
Exterior Painting
Preparation: a. Clean the surface: Use a pressure washer or a scrub brush to clean the exterior surface thoroughly. Remove dirt, dust, mildew, and any loose or flaking paint. Allow the surface to dry completely. b. Repair any damage: Inspect the surface for any cracks, holes, or damaged areas. Repair them using appropriate materials like patching compound or wood filler. Sand the repaired areas to ensure a smooth surface. c. Protect the surroundings: Cover nearby plants, windows, doors, and any other areas that you want to protect from paint splatters. Use drop cloths or plastic sheeting for this purpose.
Surface Preparation: a. Sanding: If the existing paint is in good condition, lightly sand the surface to create a better bond for the new paint. Use a sanding block or sandpaper with a medium-grit (around 120 to 150 grit) to smooth out rough spots and create a slightly roughened surface. b. Prime bare surfaces: If you have bare wood or metal surfaces, apply a coat of primer to ensure proper adhesion and protection. Choose a primer suitable for the surface material and follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Paint Selection: a. Choose the right paint: Select a high-quality exterior paint suitable for the surface material and weather conditions in your area. Look for paints labeled specifically for exteriors, as they are formulated to withstand the elements.
Painting: a. Start from the top: Begin painting at the top of the house and work your way down. This will prevent paint drips from ruining previously painted surfaces. b. Use a brush or roller: Use a brush for trim, corners, and edges, and a roller for larger flat areas. Use a brush to "cut in" around windows, doors, and other detailed areas. c. Apply multiple coats: Apply two or more coats of paint for optimal coverage and durability. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next one, following the manufacturer's instructions for drying times. d. Maintain a wet edge: When using a roller, maintain a "wet edge" by slightly overlapping each new stroke with the previous one. This helps avoid visible lines and ensures a smooth finish. e. Apply even coats: Apply paint evenly, avoiding excessive buildup or drips. Follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding recommended thickness and application techniques.
Clean-Up: a. Clean your tools: Clean brushes, rollers, and other painting equipment with the appropriate cleaning agents according to the type of paint you used. b. Remove protective coverings: Once the paint has dried, remove the protective coverings you placed to shield nearby areas.
Cleaning Service
Gather Cleaning Supplies: a. Stock up on essential cleaning supplies such as all-purpose cleaner, glass cleaner, disinfecting wipes, microfiber cloths, sponges, a vacuum cleaner, a mop, a broom, a dustpan, and garbage bags.
Declutter and Organize: a. Start by removing any clutter and organizing items in each room. Put away items that are out of place and find designated spots for them. Consider donating or discarding items you no longer need.
Dusting: a. Dust surfaces from top to bottom. Begin with high surfaces such as ceiling fans, light fixtures, and shelves. Use a microfiber cloth or duster to remove dust from furniture, decor, and other surfaces.
Vacuuming and Sweeping: a. Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture thoroughly. Pay attention to high-traffic areas and hard-to-reach spots. Use attachments to clean corners and crevices. b. Sweep hard floors using a broom or dust mop to remove loose dirt and debris.
Mopping and Floor Cleaning: a. Choose the appropriate cleaner for your flooring type (hardwood, tile, laminate, etc.). b. Mop the floors, following the manufacturer's instructions and using a suitable mop or microfiber mop pad. Wring out excess water to avoid damaging the floors.
Cleaning the Kitchen: a. Wipe down countertops, stovetop, and other surfaces using an all-purpose cleaner or appropriate cleaners for specific materials. b. Clean appliances, such as the microwave, oven, refrigerator, and dishwasher. Remove any spills, stains, or food residue. c. Wash dishes or load them into the dishwasher. Put away clean kitchenware and organize cabinets.
Cleaning the Bathroom: a. Apply a bathroom cleaner to the toilet bowl and scrub with a toilet brush. Wipe down the exterior surfaces. b. Clean the sink, countertop, and mirrors using appropriate cleaners. Disinfect if necessary. c. Clean the shower, bathtub, and shower fixtures. Remove soap scum, mold, and mildew using a suitable cleaner.
Wiping Surfaces: a. Wipe down surfaces throughout the house, including tables, chairs, countertops, and shelves. b. Use glass cleaner and a lint-free cloth to clean windows and mirrors for a streak-free shine.
Change Linens and Make Beds: a. Replace bed sheets, pillowcases, and towels with fresh, clean ones. b. Make the beds, fluff pillows, and arrange throw blankets.
Final Touches: a. Take out the trash and replace garbage bags. b. Do a final walk-through to ensure you haven't missed any areas that require cleaning. c. Enjoy your clean and tidy home!