Painting the “White Picket Fence”

Painting the white picket fence is a must to keep your property looking its best and John Neill Painting & Decorating is the best quality paint company serving Philadelphia and The Main Line. The white picket fence has become an iconic image for life in the suburbs in America, but just like any other wooden surface that’s exposed to the elements, it too needs regular maintenance to stay looking it’s best. A thorough pressure cleaning will remove all of the build up, and a little prep work before applying a fresh coat of white paint will ensure the durability of the final outcome. On this particular fence in Devon, PA, we used an oil-based primer followed by two coats of solid stain. We suggest inspecting all exterior wooden surfaces every year for wear and tear to avoid costly repairs, which is often the result of leaving things unattended. Here’s to living the American dream, white picket fence and all.



 
 
 

 

 

Decorating for the Seasons

Decorating for the seasons is a great way to brighten your home and to get in the holiday spirit.
I came into work this morning and discovered this little guy on my desk. Of course, my first thought was to give him a face.

 

 
Fall is such a beautiful time of year, especially on the East Coast, so why not take your cue from Mother Nature and bring the splendor of the changing seasons into your home.  A few quick and inexpensive updates can have a big impact. Some suggestions include adding a fall wreath to your front entrance, changing out the decorations on your mantle (flowers, candles, mini pumpkins, etc.) or picking up a new runner for your dining room table.

 

 

When In Doubt, Ask A Pro Or Stick With Neutrals

Would you love to update the colors in your home, but are afraid to choose new ones on your own? If so, you’re in good company. Numerous studies have shown that one of the top reasons homeowners do not repaint the interior of their homes is out of fear of choosing the “wrong” color.
When in doubt, the best course of action is to consult with an expert. Candice Olson of HGTV has established herself as a leading interior designer and is known for her impeccable taste. Here are her favorite interior paint colors. We too have a great deal of experience with color consulting and have created our own palette of top interior paint colors. When in doubt, go with a neutral, or give us a call for help in choosing a bold color with confidence.

 

 

Sign Painting in Philadelphia & The Main Line

While we are best known for our craftsmanship when it comes to painting the interior and exteriors of homes, there isn’t anything we’ve come across yet in 39 years of business that we couldn’t paint (our most unique project was a totem pole). At John Neill Painting & Decorating, we also do sign painting in Philadelphia and the Main Line as well as the surrounding area. Also, if your sign needs restoration, we can take care of that too!
One of our more recent requests was to paint signs for several local developments. This type of work falls into our restoration category, and our craftsman love the opportunity to utilize their skills to bring beautiful, but weathered signs back to life. If you have something out of the ordinary that needs painting, we’re ready and waiting.


 

 

Creating an Optimal Workspace – Part III

Part III – Bring in Some Green
Last but not least, be sure to include a plant or two in your office scheme. Adding plants to your office space can actually help boost productivity. Areca palms remove CO2 and provide fresh air while plants like lemon balm can actually elevate your mood. Whatever you decide to include in your final office layout, be sure to make it personal. Only you know what you need to work best, and a few minor changes to your space could make a world of difference.

 

 

Creating an Optimal Workspace – Part I

We focus much of our attention on updating your home, but many of us actually spend the majority of the daylight hours in an office. Whether you’re in a high rise in the heart of the city or in a home office with a view, there are a few key things to consider in creating an optimal workspace.
Part I – Let There Be Light
Lighting is at the top of the list for creating a space that is truly conducive to productivity. Natural light is always the best option, but if you have to rely on artificial lighting as your primary source of light, try to stay away from fluorescent lighting if possible. The new LED lighting mimics natural light much more successfully, and is much more energy efficient as well. If the lighting in your office is completely out of your control, try bringing in a floor lamp that shines up and boost the light in your space. The 4 pm slump is much easier to avoid if you have good light throughout the course of the day.
 
 
Creating An Optimal Workspace Part II
Creating An Optimal Workspace Part III

 

 

2013 U.S. Open at Merion

The Merion Golf Club will be hosting the 2013 US Open in June, and when it came time to prepare for this prestigious event, they turned to John Neill Painting & Decorating. After a thorough pressure cleaning, we painted the exterior of the Clubhouse, the barn and courtyard walls. We also painted the interior of the Men’s Locker Room, interior hallways and stairs.
Do you have a special event planned at your home this spring or summer?
Is your home in top condition and ready to welcome family and friends?
If not, give us a call today to set up an estimate and save your space on our schedule.

 

 

 

2013 Color of the Year

The 2013 Color of the Year for Pantone is Emeral 17-5641!

It was a tight race, but with blue prevailing four times over the past ten years, Emerald Green will take its place atop the charts as the “Color of the Year” for 2013. Described as powerful, grounding, and cooling, this vibrant green will bring a nice change of pace in the year ahead. Expect to see an array of emerald green accessories popping up over the next few months, followed by household items and wallpaper and paint colors as well.
While the Color of the Year has historically been a bold color, Pantone has also added 175 new colors to the 2013 collection. Among these are muted earth tones, rich and luxurious neutrals and fun accent colors. Check back soon for the full 2013 Color Forecast and our suggestions on how to incorporate these fresh new colors into your home.
 
 

 

 

Five Questions To Ask Before Hiring A Painting Contractor

Hiring a contractor can often be a stressful and unsettling endeavor. With nearly 40 years in business, we’ve taken the guesswork out of the equation and provided you with the key questions to ask before making your final decision. Finding a company you are truly comfortable with can make all the difference in a stressful vs. a successful experience. Here are 5 questions to ask BEFORE hiring a painting contractor that can help you save money and make sure the job is done right!
What products will they use?
Not all paint is created equal, and generally speaking, you get what you pay for. Be sure to ask about the products that will be used for your job. These play a key role in both the aesthetic appeal and the durability of the completed project, and if you want the best results possible you may need to be willing to spend a little more on the products.
What preparation will be done?
 The key to a durable and long lasting paint job lies in the preparation before the finish coat is applied. Be sure to ask about all of the preparation that will be completed prior to applying the final coat of paint.

Who will be performing the work?
 There are painters, and then there are craftsman. Be sure to ask about the people who will be sent to your home to complete the work; how long they have been with the company, their skill level and product knowledge, and how available they will be to answer any questions that may arise along the way. Remember, they will most likely be in or around your house for at least a week, so you will want to choose a company you feel comfortable working with.
What is their reputation like?
Check to see how long they have been in business and what type of reputation they have established. A well-established painting contractor should be willing and able to provide you with references and testimonials upon request, and you should not be shy about asking for them.
And the last of the five questions to ask before hiring a painting contractor is…
What type of warranties do they offer?
Many customers do not realize that they are warranties on home services such as painting. Any reputable painting contractor should offer one, and be sure to ask about the details and read the fine print. If the initial price of the work to be completed seems high, look at the warranty offer and evaluate the overall long-term cost of when you will have to repaint again. You may actually find that spending the extra money up front will be in your favor over the long run.
See our Painting Services page to see how John Neill Painting & Decorating can help you in Philadelphia and the Main Line!

 

 

The Coolest Thing About John Neill Painting

We usually don’t “talk shop” at our weekly family dinner, but last week my father had missed a few days due to a cold. When we sat down to eat, he asked me how everything was at the office and if there was anything he needed to be brought up to speed about. I gave him a brief update and then my younger brother chimed in. He said that he has always found it really cool that if you call John Neill Painting Customer Service you actually get to speak to John Neill (and often meet him in person as well).
37 years later and John’s still going strong. While we have delayed the ringer in his office so he doesn’t answer every single phone call himself, he is still here everyday hard at work. When asked once in an interview what his favorite part of the job was, there was no hesitation in his answer. He truly loves being able to work with our customers directly in updating and maintaining their homes.
In the day and age of automated telephone answering systems, big box stores, small companies being bought out by big companies, and corporate mergers everywhere, it’s nice to know that there are still small business owners out there who like keep things personal. Give us a call and see for yourself.

 

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