As the weather this time of year makes outdoor work difficult, however, owner John Princiotta says he is now almost exclusively working on interior painting jobs for residents and businesses. Having painted homes professionally since he was 18, Princiotta has spent 15 years gaining what he calls "an enormous amount of knowledge in all aspects of home remodeling." His clients are mostly homeowners in the Acton/Concord/Carlisle area, but he will travel farther for some jobs.

The youngest of three brothers in trade professions, Princiotta says he learned a lot from his siblings and picked up the rest on the job. In addition to preparing indoor surfaces for painting, he will also act as a color consultant and will even match paints to fabrics and furnishings.

While many people paint their own homes’ interiors, fast-paced lifestyles and a good economy have made for an abundance of jobs out for bid, Princiotta says. "I think folks today are just so busy," he says. "(Any job) may look fine, but the line between the baseboard and the wall may not be straight. The little things are important."

"If you’re looking for a quality job with less hassle, hire a contractor," he says. "You can spend the whole weekend (on a project), or you can hire someone to do it in half the time."

Princiotta uses only Benjamin Moore paints, and generally uses latex paint on walls and oil on the trim, as oil is more durable and has a better finish, he says. While he says most of his jobs involve repainting walls white or ivory, "there is no average 12-by-12 room. Some people like to do something a little different, so we use some color."

If a room is very light, Princiotta says, a darker color can be used without a problem, provided the homeowner wants to accent the room in this way. Many people like to highlight their furnishings and will choose a more neutral, lighter color to help certain pieces stand out, he says. A combination effect can be achieved by painting one wall a color and the rest neutral, so the accent wall provides interest without being overpowering.

"I always say, "Give yourself one room that’s a little more cozy and add some color. If you’re in a home office and want to be a little creative, you can do that," Princiotta suggests. Before taking brush to wall, however, he says it is best to hold a sample up to several areas that are to be covered, as light can vary dramatically from one end of a room to the other. "Lighting can change the look of a color completely," he says. "It can be tricky."

Princiotta will also stain and finish natural wood trim if requested.

His services include a free estimate, during which he assesses the property’s needs and discusses philosophy with clients. "You have to communicate with the customers, he says. "Mistakes don’t happen by accident."

"You have to discuss expectations," he says. "I want (the customer) to be happy, and I want to be happy (while working). You have to have a mutual respect for one another."

For more information, contact Princiotta Painting Co. at 781-861-1661 or 978-266-1341.

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