This article is outdated. Deep based colors were an increase in price back in the 90's. Most stores have a standard price for all colors now. The problems the author are citing are outdated and rarely happen. This is the 2nd time I've seen this article being emailed out, it's irresponsible of angies list to keep sending out this poorly written and inaccurate article.
Believe it or not, there is more that goes into house painting than putting paint on a wall. There is prep work, clean up, priming and other details that must be addressed, which should be included in your initial quote. Before you sign on the dotted line with a painting contractor, you should get a detailed quote that lists all the steps being taken and how much each service will cost, including:
State your expectations. The number of coats a painter applies isn’t the only factor in determining the quality—and price—of the project. Preparation is also key. If you want a surface that’s free of unevenness from past paint jobs, tell the contractors—and be prepared to pay extra. But if you can live with some imperfections, agree on what level of prep is acceptable and what isn’t.
On the other hand, there are many homeowners who don’t know where to start when choosing a paint color. Do I want a safe, neutral color, or something more bright and inviting? No matter where you are on the spectrum of choosing a paint color, there are a few questions you should ask yourself that will help you choose the best color for your painting project.
Less shiny than semi-gloss, but still capable of some reflection, a satin or eggshell sheen will usually be the best choice for living spaces. Semi-gloss and high gloss are by far the most reflective sheens. Both can be used for trim and furniture, but high gloss is the shiniest option. However, a room may employ high gloss sheen if you are looking for an unusual or modern design choice that will fix attention on one specific surface, like a cabinet or door for instance
Second coats on similar colors are almost never recogicnized as being needed until the coat is applied and has dried. ONLY THEN WILL YOU SEE WHETHER IT NEEDS A SECOND COAT or not. Yes, painters can use a cheaper paint then what you paid for. That is solved by getting your own which, I would charge extra for because I will always have to go get more, or add second coat because home owner tried to skimp on paint, or they got the wrong color etc...
Believe it or not, there is more that goes into house painting than putting paint on a wall. There is prep work, clean up, priming and other details that must be addressed, which should be included in your initial quote. Before you sign on the dotted line with a painting contractor, you should get a detailed quote that lists all the steps being taken and how much each service will cost, including:
Refresh the interior of your home: If you’re feeling like the interior of your house could use a change, try painting a few of the rooms a new color. Over time, paint can start to wear and become faded. Brighten up the rooms in your home by painting them a new color, or even just doing a new coat of the same color. You’ll be amazed at how refreshed the space looks. http://m.youtu.be/b6_WEt9k_Hw
I managed commercial construction projects for many years, have built and remodeled several properties, and never once have I encountered any of these scams. The tone of this article is deeply troubling. The author seems to be saying that ALL painting contractors are inherently dishonest, and that has not been my experience. The underlying advice here is sound: get it all in writing and cover as many contingencies as possible--so pointing out potential pitfalls like coat coverage is helpful. But do that in the spirit of clear communication of expectations, not with the expectation that the person you are hiring will try to cheat you at every turn. Not every contractor takes outrageous advantage of change orders; not every contractor will sneak past necessary preparation and/or repairs. Contractors of all sorts get a bad rap as it is; reinforcing a stereotype with articles written from this point of view just seems unproductive.
