More and more homeowners are choosing to use painting contractors rather than doing the work themselves. This is to save time and labor, and to achieve the best possible results.

When planning a paint job, the potential do-it-yourselfer should consider such things as:

• How much surface preparation is needed and will I have the time to finish it?

• Will I be able to handle the more demanding aspects of the job such as setting up and climbing ladders, moving furniture, containing dirt and dust, etc.?

• Will I be able to live with a room or area left unfinished if I am called away, return to my regular job, etc.?

• When considering which contractor to hire, be sure to do or determine each of the following:

• Talk with several contractors and get written quotes from each. Ask about insurances.

• Determine what will exactly be done for each type of area (any wood trim, windows, walls of each room, etc.) for:

• Surface preparation

• Priming; what primer (type and brand) will be used?

• Finish coat: Type of paint and brand, where the brand fits into the manufacturer's line (premium, economy, contractor's grade, etc.), what sheens are best for the substrate and how many coats will be provided?

• For exterior work, what will be done to protect landscaping? For interior work, what will be done in regards to moving and protecting furniture?

• When will the work be started? Finished? How many painters will be working on the job?

• Get names of previous customers from each contractor as references, and contact them to get their recommendation.

• Note whether the contractor was courteous, on time with appointments and returning your phone calls, experienced, and generally interested in doing business with you.

• Since the contractor you hire will be at or in your home for a period of time, make sure you feel comfortable with him.