Get ready for outdoor painting projects with these tips
Yes, many readers may step outside and realize that winter isn’t quite ready to give up control of the thermostat. However, that doesn’t mean a successful painting contractor should just be thinking interiors till Spring finally arrives.
Preparation time is now for the exterior season, even if you might not be applying paint outdoors anytime soon. Here are a few ideas to ensure you hit the ground running and maximize your exterior painting opportunities once the weather allows.
Promote, promote, promote! Get your customer base thinking about a project to update the look of their home, refinish their deck or paint their garage. Perhaps they’re gearing up to sell their home — the market is expected to remain hot, and a repaint can help improve their curb appeal and add value to their most important investment. And if you haven’t used the multiple tools available to you via your PRO+ online account, you’ve still got time to learn how to create effective Customizable Marketing Materials (CMM) or professional-looking bids using the Project Bids tool, which is available via the PRO+ app. The Color Toolkit, also available via the PRO+ app, can assist in color discussion and help sell your project proposal.
Improve productivity with new product innovations. Recent product innovations available from Sherwin-Williams offer real benefits for you and your customers and prospects, so be prepared to use the CMM tool to share and explain their benefits. For example, Emerald Rain Refresh is formulated to be self-cleaning by shedding dirt upon rain or water contact. And Latitude Exterior Acrylic Latex is formulated with ClimateFlex Technology™, combining moisture resistance, extreme temperature tolerance and a durable finish, delivering stunning results while keeping projects on track all season long. Products such as the new Purdy® 14-inch Roller System will also improve your productivity by up to 55 percent over a 9-inch roller. Talk to your Sherwin-Williams sales rep today about product innovations that can improve your productivity and add value to the exterior projects that will soon be on your schedule. Your Sherwin-Williams store is a one-stop shop not only for the best coatings available for your next exterior project, but for all your painting tools and supplies.
Ensure your crew is ready to go. There’s still time to teach yourself and your crew a new trick or two. Visit PaintProTraining.com for a series of videos that can grow your team’s skill set before you finally head outdoors.
Give your equipment an annual check-up. Does the van have another season in it? Check the tires on all your vehicles and get your maintenance up-to-date, ensuring that you won’t compromise your productivity due to van or truck service once you get busy outside. Make sure your pressure washers and sprayers are all functioning properly and will meet your upcoming needs. Consider upgrades or adding capacity. And give your ladders and safety equipment a closer look to ensure they’re all up to standard.
Outdoor painting season will be here before you know it. Prepare now and you’ll maximize your productivity and profitability once it arrives!