Should you become a professional painter? Learn what this career move would entail.
If you have painted your own home and thought,
"This isn't so hard! Maybe I should try my hand at making money this way!" then becoming a painter might be the right job for you. Before you jump into this career, though, take the time to learn a little more about what it entails.
What the Job Requires
Professionals do far more than just paint living rooms and bedrooms. In addition to painting, you will need to be able to repair the surface before you paint, remove wallpaper, deal with old chipping paint, smooth the walls, and protect non-painted services properly. For many jobs you will not be able to begin until you remove the old surfaces. This might require stripping them using harsh chemicals. You may also have to deal with mildew, which must be removed before you can paint.
Tools of the Trade
A painter must be experienced in using a variety of tools. A paintbrush and roller are the more obvious ones. You may also need to use spray guns, sandpaper, scrapers, steel wool, sanding machines, and brushes. Paint, primer, treatments, varnish, enamel, and stain can all be used on walls. Lighting, drop cloths, buckets, and painting trays are also tools of the professional painting contractor. Not only do you need experience using these types of tools, but you are also going to need some money to purchase them at the beginning of your new career.
Tackling Heights
One of the main things you will have to deal with as a professional painter is heights. Most homeowners who decide not to tackle their painting on their own do so because the height in their home is a problem. You will need to be comfortable erecting and working on scaffolding or ladders, with scaffolding being the preferred, safest, and easiest option. If you are afraid of heights, this may not be the career move for you.
Marketing
Simply calling yourself a painter is not going to bring you work. You are going to need to learn how to market your skills. Start by doing a few jobs for friends or family members, and then use them to have some references to branch out to others. If you do quality work, you will receive referrals.
Licensing and Insurance
Finally, before you officially become a painter, look into the licensing and insurance requirements in your city or state. There are often requirements for professional contractors who will go to others' homes to have insurance or licensure. At a minimum, you are going to want a business license to avoid tax penalties when tax time rolls around. Insurance is a protection for the homeowner, as well as for you as the contractor. Do not attempt to start a professional career in this regard without the proper protection and licensure.
