Is it really that important to hire a professional painter? Can't I do it myself? Before you decide to hire the least expensive painter you can find, or "do it yourself", here are important points to consider that suggest the lowest price may not be the best value. Safety Painting can be hazardous work, whether it’s working on a ladder or dealing with solvents and dust. Hiring a professional contractor means you don’t have to worry about these problems. Health If your home or business was built before 1978, it may have been painted with lead-based paint, which can cause serious health effects when it is scraped or sanded in preparation for repainting. Professional contractors will take appropriate steps to protect you. Painting contractors are required to furnish EPA-produced pamphlets to their residential customers before they begin a job that involves disturbing lead-based paint in or on a residence. Professional painting contractors will understand and be willing to follow the recommendations on this pamphlet. Preparation & Painting Getting the surface properly prepared makes all the difference. Professional contractors know the value of preparation and will do it right. Knowing Paints and How to Apply Them The choices today are more complicated than just oil or latex, and professional contractors will know what works, how to use it, and will have the right tools for the job. Cleanup and Disposal Hiring a professional contractor means you don’t have to worry about dealing with paint residues and other leftovers. Professionals will know how to handle hazardous wastes that may be part of the job. Once you've decided to hire a professional, learn how to choose the right contractor. The Painting and Decorating Contractors of America is a full-service national trade association representing over 3,100 companies engaged in all sectors of the coatings application industry. PDCA has developed this article to assist you in making an informed decision when you next contemplate a painting or decorating project.