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Professional Berkeley House Painting Services by Arana Craftsman Painters

by with No Comment FAQs and Painting Basics

When it comes to enhancing the aesthetic appeal and value of your home in Berkeley, there’s no better choice than Arana Craftsman Painters. Our dedication to excellence in house painting sets us apart from the competition. We understand that your home is a reflection of your identity, and our skilled team is here to ensure it radiates beauty and sophistication.

Why Choose Arana Craftsman Painters?

Choosing the right painting service is crucial for achieving the desired look and longevity of your interior and exterior surfaces. Our commitment to quality craftsmanship, attention to detail, and customer satisfaction ensures that you receive the best possible service.

Experienced Professionals

At Arana Craftsman Painters, our experienced professionals bring years of expertise in both residential and commercial painting projects. Our team is not only skilled in traditional painting techniques, but also in modern trends and eco-friendly practices that meet the diverse needs of our clients. We pride ourselves on our communication skills, ensuring that you’re informed and involved throughout the entire process, from initial consultation to project completion.

Comprehensive Painting Services

Our services go beyond simple wall painting. We offer a variety of specialized services tailored to meet your specific needs. This includes:

Interior Painting: Transform your living spaces with our interior painting services that reflect your personal style. From color consultation to the final touches, we ensure a flawless finish that will breathe new life into your home.

Exterior Painting: Protect and beautify the exterior of your property with our comprehensive exterior painting solutions. Our high-quality paints and techniques are designed to withstand the elements while enhancing curb appeal.

Trim and Molding Painting: The details can make all the difference. We specialize in painting trim and molding, providing a polished finish that adds elegance to any room.

Cabinet Refinishing: Refresh your kitchen or bathroom with our cabinet refinishing services. We use advanced techniques to restore your cabinets, providing a new look at a fraction of the cost of replacement.

Custom Finishes: For those looking for something unique, we offer various custom finishes, including venetian plaster, faux finishes, and more. Our artistic team is ready to collaborate and create a look that is uniquely yours.

Our Process

At Arana Craftsman Painters, we believe that a successful project begins with thorough planning and communication. Our process can be broken down into several key stages:

1. Consultation and Estimate
The first step is scheduling a consultation where we discuss your vision and assess the project site. Our team will provide a detailed estimate, outlining the scope of work, materials, and project timeline, ensuring there are no surprises along the way.

2. Preparation
Preparation is critical for a successful paint job. Our team meticulously prepares every surface, filling cracks, sanding rough patches, and ensuring that surfaces are clean and primed. This step guarantees optimal paint adhesion and a smooth finish.

3. Painting
Using only the highest quality paints, we meticulously apply the chosen color or finish. Our attention to detail during the painting process is unmatched, allowing us to create a uniform and vibrant appearance. Whether it’s a single room or an entire home, we approach each project with the same level of dedication and professionalism.

4. Final Inspection and Clean-Up
Once the painting is complete, we conduct a thorough inspection to ensure that everything meets our high standards. Additionally, we take pride in leaving your home just as we found it, ensuring all areas are cleaned up and that you can enjoy your newly painted space immediately.

Quality Materials for Lasting Results

We understand that the longevity of your paint job relies heavily on the quality of materials used. That’s why we utilize only the best paints and coatings that are not only durable but also environmentally friendly. Our selection includes various finishes and colors, enabling our clients to achieve their desired aesthetic without compromising on quality.

Customer Satisfaction

At Arana Craftsman Painters, customer satisfaction is our primary focus. We strive to create a seamless painting experience characterized by respect, professionalism, and attention to detail. Our clients’ testimonials reflect our commitment to excellence and our desire to exceed expectations.

Timely Completion

We recognize the importance of timely project completion. Our team works efficiently without sacrificing quality, ensuring your home is transformed swiftly. We provide clear timelines and work diligently to adhere to them, keeping you informed every step of the way.

Follow-Up Services

Our commitment to our clients doesn’t end once the painting is completed. We offer follow-up services to ensure that any necessary touch-ups are taken care of promptly. Your satisfaction with the final product is essential to us, and we are here to address any concerns you may have.

Areas We Serve

Arana Craftsman Painters proudly serves Berkeley and the surrounding neighborhoods. Whether you are located downtown, in the hills, or along the waterfront, our team is ready to bring your painting dreams to life. We understand the unique architectural styles and aesthetic preferences of the area, allowing us to deliver a service that resonates with your community’s character.

Your Vision, Our Expertise

Engaging with Arana Craftsman Painters means partnering with a team that values your vision as much as you do. Our interior and exterior house painting services are designed to reflect your tastes while enhancing the natural beauty of your home. With every stroke of the brush, we aim to create spaces that you’ll love coming home to.

Get Started Today

Ready to revitalize your home with professional painting services? Look no further than Arana Craftsman Painters. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards transforming your space. Let us help you enhance the beauty and value of your home with our expertise and dedication to quality.

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Mastering the Art of Staining a Wooden Deck

by with No Comment FAQs and Painting Basics

To Stain a Wood Deck

Ah, the wood deck – an iconic American symbol of indoor=outdoor living at its finest. An outdoor sanctuary, a summer stage, and, occasionally, a faded, maybe peeling and splinter-riddled beast demanding attention. While a well-stained deck can be the crown jewel of your backyard, staining your deck is a job in and of itself and not for the faint DIYer heart! Fear not though, fellow deck owners and DIYers, we are here to stain your deck if you don’t feel like it! However, if you do want to give it a go, this article will attempt to explain to you (like one might try to explain how to tie shoelaces) how to stain a deck like yours so that you can enjoy it for the summer and all year round. Please note: We highly discourage painting your deck.

Prepare the Canvas: Cleaning the Deck

Before any sort of stain material can be applied or reapplied, you must clean the surface of the wood. This is still true if the material is new as it can have a film on it from milling. Start by removing any furniture, plants, or rogue barbecue grills that have taken up residence. Sweep away leaves, dirt, and anything else that might be plotting against your perfect finish and do a good rinse with preferably a power washer. Be careful not to damage the wood or leave marks from the high pressure. You can clean mildew and mold with a mixture of water and mild detergent. Even better to use a deck brightener if it’s really dirty or has embedded mildew. After the wash, you may see some raised wood grain. Sand it down.

Inspect and Repair: Deck Health Check-Up

Your deck might be hiding secrets beneath its weathered exterior – loose nails, cracked boards, or splintering wood. Inspect and address these issues before you begin stain application. Tighten screws, replace damaged boards, and sand down rough spots. This is your chance to play deck doctor and ensure your wooden patient is in tip-top shape before the staining process begins.

Choose Your Material: Selecting the Right Stain

Stains come in a myriad of options, but that doesn’t mean that all of the options are appropriate for your deck. From transparent to semi-transparent, semi-solid to solid, the choice can be overwhelming. Transparent stains highlight the natural beauty of the wood grain, but can only be used where transparent stain has been used before or when a deck is new.  While solid stains offer robust protection and vibrant color, they act more like a paint and can start to peel. We heavily discourage solid stain, but sometimes it is unavoidable. We cannot offer much of a guarantee against peeling. If the previous owner used it, you may be stuck with it unless you have a large budget to sand it down and remove it. Consider the level of exposure your deck endures – full sun, partial shade, or the occasional monsoon – and choose accordingly. Remember, the right stain is your deck’s armor against the elements and it can save you a lot of time in ongoing maintenance.

Timing is Everything: The Perfect Weather Window

Staining a deck isn’t just a task; it’s an event, and like any grand event, timing is crucial. Aim for a mild, dry day with temperatures between 50°F and 90°F. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can cause the stain to dry too quickly, leaving you with a patchy finish. Also, ensure no rain is in the forecast for at least 48 hours post-application. If you must stain a deck ahead of a threat of rain, use an oil-based product. We highly recommend Messmers UV Plus.

Gather Your Supplies and Application tools

You will need:

  • A high-quality brush or roller
  • A bag of rags
  • A paint tray or bucket
  • Painter’s tape (to protect areas you don’t want stained)
  • Drop cloths (for those accidental splatters)
  • Protective gloves and clothing
  • Stir sticks (for mixing the stain)

Make sure you have everything before you get started because you don’t want to stop mid-application or in a place on your deck where you will see overlap when you pick back up again.

Finding the Perfect Color

Most stains have stock colors. Finding the perfect color should not be difficult. Go with a semi-transparent stain like Messmer’s UV plus and choose from their 8 colors. If you need a solid or semi-solid stain, Benjamin Moore’s Wood Luxe product can be mixed into any Benjamin Moore color.  Give your stain a thorough stir to ensure the pigments are evenly distributed. Before you commit to covering the entire deck, test a small, inconspicuous area. This will allow you to see how the stain interacts with your wood and ensure you’re happy with the color. Remember, stain colors can vary depending on the wood type and previous treatments, so this step is your safety net against unexpected surprises.

Master the Application: Staining Techniques

Now, for the main event – the application. Start with the railings and intricate areas, as these often require more precision. Use long, even strokes, working with the grain of the wood. For larger areas, a roller can speed up the process, but follow up with a brush to ensure even coverage and avoid lap marks. Work in manageable sections, and always keep a wet edge to prevent streaks. Patience and consistency are your allies here. And again, make sure to watch the weather. Do not apply more than one coat of oil-based semi-transparent paint. It will not absorb evenly and will become sticky and splotchy looking.

Let It Dry: Patience is a Virtue

After stain, resist the urge to dance upon it immediately. Drying times vary depending on the stain type and weather conditions, but generally, 24-48 hours is a safe bet. You can read the product label to see what type of dry time your specific product has. Keep an eye on the forecast and ensure your deck remains dry during this period. This is the perfect time to plan your next backyard barbecue, dreaming of the compliments your newly stained deck will garner.

Maintenance Matters: Preserving the Beauty

A beautifully stained deck is a sight to behold, but maintenance is key to preserving its glory. Regularly sweep away debris, clean up spills promptly, and give it a gentle wash as needed. Every few years, depending on wear and tear, you might need to reapply a fresh coat of stain to keep it looking its best. Think of it as a spa day for your deck – a little pampering goes a long way.

Staining a deck requires skill, preparation, precision, and patience. Feel free to call us if you don’t have those! We’d be happy to do your deck. Otherwise, follow these nine expert tips, you’ll transform your outdoor space into a stunning retreat that will stand the test of time. So, roll up your sleeves, channel your DIYer, and bring the glory to your deck that it deserves.

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Accent Walls: Ideas and Inspiration

by with No Comment FAQs and Painting Basics

In certain spaces, an accent wall or walls can transform the character of a room in a myriad of ways depending on your goal. With just a splash of color or an interesting texture, a room can come alive by simply helping to break up the monotony of plain walls. The following are ways that you can use to determine is an accent wall appropriate for the room your considering and how to go about choosing that color.

Why add an Accent Wall?

An accent wall serves as a focal point, drawing attention and adding character, color and/or texture to your space. It can be like the diamond on the ring of your room—stealing the spotlight and making everything else look good. It can also balance out other colors or provide a bold contrast in a mostly neutral space. Plus, it is a fantastic way to experiment with bold colors and patterns without overwhelming your entire room. Accent walls can also be done with paint, wallpaper, wood paneling or wainscotting.

Choosing the Right Wall to Place Your Accent

Before you go wild with paint and wallpaper, it’s crucial to select the right wall to accentuate. Typically, the wall you choose should be the first one you see when you enter the room. It can even be a corner space. It could be the wall behind your bed, your fireplace, or even the one where your TV hangs out. It can be used to define a specific area like the study area of your kid’s bedroom.

It should be consistent in size or shape and have clearly defined boundaries. It can make a long hallway feel less long and give a far-off focal point. You can even paint half of a wall to give the illusion of a wainscot or chair rail. If you are going to do multiple accent walls throughout your home be sure to place them strategically, don’t do multiple in a room and be sure to take your existing furniture and fixtures into account.

Bold Colors Can Make a Big Impact

When it comes to accent walls, bold is beautiful. Deep, rich hues like navy blue, emerald green, and charcoal gray can add depth and drama to your space. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider a vibrant color like mustard yellow or a fiery red to really make a statement.

Pro Tip: Use Color Theory (or hire an Interior Designer)
Understanding color theory can help you choose complementary colors that enhance your space. For instance, a deep blue accent wall can look stunning with white or light gray furniture, creating a nautical vibe. Or you can call one of our many interior design colleagues highlighted in our blog.

Textures and Patterns Add Dimension – If you’re not just content with a solid color, consider adding textures or patterns or different materials to your accent wall.

Wallpaper
Wallpaper has made a major comeback in recent years, offering a plethora of patterns, from elegant florals to edgy geometric designs.

Wood Materials
For a rustic or farmhouse look, wooden planks or shiplap can add warmth and texture. There is even horizontal lined pattern wood that comes in rolls that completely changes an area like one wall in an entry for hanging coats and storing shoes. A thinly spaced horizontal wood accent can warm up that corner and add a backdrop that takes mutes the potential clutter of storing jackets and shoes.  that You can go for a natural wood finish or paint the planks in a color that complements your decor.

Brick and Stone
Exposed brick or stone walls can add an industrial or rustic charm to your home. If you’re not blessed with natural brick, faux brick panels or stone veneer can do the trick without the hefty renovation costs.

Stenciling and Murals
For the artists at heart, stencils and murals can turn your wall into a canvas. Whether it’s a subtle pattern or a full-blown mural, these options let your creativity shine. Ask us for a referral to a decorative painter!

Accent Walls with Paint Techniques

Sometimes, it’s all about the technique. Here are a few ideas to get those creative juices flowing:

Limewash or Venetian Plaster
All the rage right now, Limewash is an elevated faux finish that give you a smoother transition between colors and visually can look like suede. You can choose any palette of colors and its all in the application technique. Venetian Plaster can also produce a similar effect when used with bolder colors, but it more typically used on a whole house rather than just an accent.


Ombre Effect
An ombre wall transitions from one color to another, creating a gradient effect that can be incredibly soothing and visually intriguing.

Stripes and Chevrons
Stripes, whether vertical or horizontal, can add a dynamic feel to your room. Chevron patterns are a modern twist that can make your wall look like a piece of art.

Sponging and Rag Rolling
These techniques add a textured look to your walls using paint and simple tools like sponges or rags. They can create a soft, cloud-like effect or a more dramatic finish depending on the colors used.

Functional Accent Walls
Who says accent walls can’t be functional? Here are some ideas to make your accent wall work for you:

Gallery Walls
Turn your accent wall into a gallery by displaying your favorite artwork, photos of your family, or even mirrors. This not only personalizes your space but also adds visual interest.

Shelving/Library
Incorporate a whole wall of shelving to hold your mountain of books, display your artwork and pottery collection, your plants and even your flat screen TV into your accent wall to combine beauty with functionality.

Chalkboard or Whiteboard Paint
Perfect for a kitchen or a kid’s room, chalkboard or whiteboard paint can turn your wall into a giant notepad. It’s both fun and practical.

General Ideas for Accent Walls in Different Rooms

  • Living Room
    an accent wall can be the backdrop for your entertainment center or behind your couch. It can even be a statement piece like a large piece of art.
  • Bedroom
    In the bedroom, the wall behind your bed is the perfect spot for an accent wall. It can add a sense of coziness and intimacy. If you have a defined corner for a desk or a bump out for built in seat or library.
  • Kitchen
    In the kitchen, an accent wall can be a great way to highlight a breakfast nook or dining area. Remember to use paint with at least an eggshell sheen.
  • Bathroom
    Don’t shy away from accent walls in the bathroom. Tile or wallpaper can add a touch of luxury.

Creating an accent wall can be fun and can add dimension to your space. It is an exciting way to breathe new life into any room. With the right combination of colors, textures, and creativity, you can turn a simple wall into a spectacular focal point. If you need assistance on choosing color, give us a call! We have amazing color consultants and interior designer at the ready!

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Common Painting Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

by with No Comment FAQs and Painting Basics

As professional painters we know that you can paint yourself. But do you want to? Are you prepared for the challenges that come along with it and how much will you be able to accept the level of detail and finish that could result. Whether you’re painting a room or a whole house inside or out, there are common mistakes that can turn your project into a frustrating mess. But fear not! We will walk you through the most common blunders and show (as best as is possible in a written article) how to avoid them, to ensure a smooth as possible and as “professional” a finish as possible every time.

Preparing for Painting

Before you even dip your brush in paint, proper set up and preparation for the task is key. An ounce of prevention in the form of time spent planning and getting ready can save you a lot of headaches down the line. Handling the small details now and having a plan to manage them as the process is ongoing is of vital importance.

Choosing the Right Tools

The first step in any successful painting project is having the right tools. This includes drop cloths, scraping tools, putty knives, buckets, receptacles to mix mud and other patching materials, the best brushes (not the cheap plastic ones), rollers, roller handles, hand masker and other masking tools. High-quality tools and especially brushes can make a huge difference in the final result.

Surface Preparation

Prepping the surface to be painted is crucial. This breaks down into a few steps:

  1. Cleaning the surface thoroughly, by removing loose and failing paint, sanding, dusting and vacuuming a surface and ensuring it’s dry and smooth. A glossy surface must be “abraded” before it can accept any new paint. If you are working on an exterior project, washing it in order to remove films that have developed on the surface may be needed. A well-prepared surface will hold paint better and look more professional.  
  2. Prime the surfaces that need to be patched. When outside, we recommend all surfaces receive a coat of paint (some limitations may apply, it is a case by case basis).
  3. Patch holes and caulk between trim and wall surface. Epoxy small sections of rotted wood.
  4. Prepare surface to a “paintable surface” which is clean, smooth and ready to receive paint.

Common Painting Mistakes

Even seasoned painters can make mistakes. Here are some of the most frequent errors and how they can derail your painting project.

  1. Skipping Primer
    Primer is essential for a smooth and even finish, especially on new or repaired surfaces. Skipping this step can result in blotchy and uneven paint coverage. Some exceptions do apply, we evaluate on a case-by-case basis. For example, stucco does not always need to be fully primed before paint, but again, it depends.
  2. Using the Wrong Materials for the Wrong Application
    Never use caulking to patch a Use Bondo to fill small holes only and don’t overfill because it dries hard and become a mess to sand. If you use spa hole.ckle, make sure to over fill the holes because it shrinks in the hole. Spackle is easy to sand, but fill needs to be precise. When caulking, be sure to not wipe away too much. Be sure to allow materials to dry fully before painting over them. Be careful not to use too heavy a grit of sandpaper on the surfaces you are sanding. AND NEVER use masking tape on floors or any other surface that you do not want it to become a permanent part of.
  3. Not Masking and Protecting the Surrounding Areas Properly
    You don’t realize how much can be screwed up around when painting until you either start to do it yourself or hire a JoeBlowIt painter. When painting a wall you need to run a tape line along the baseboard. You need to mask the floors 6 inches from the base with masking paper, and cover the remaining area of the floor with a drop cloth (plastic backed in case of spills. Don’t forget to cover surrounding furniture!
  4. Overloading the Brush
    It might seem like loading up your brush with a lot of paint will speed up the process, but it often leads to drips, streaks, and an uneven finish.
  5. Not Using Painter’s Tape
    Painter’s tape is your best friend when it comes to creating clean lines (a DIYer will need tape to create lines. A professional painter will not) and protecting areas that shouldn’t be painted. Skipping this step can lead to a messy and unprofessional look.
  6. Painting in the Wrong Order
    There’s a correct sequence to painting a room: start with the ceiling, then trim (baseboard, windows and frames, doors and frames) then the walls. You’ll have to cut all of the lines along the ceiling and trim to about 2 – 3 inches down the wall and then roll the remaining walls. Ignoring this order will cause you to get paint on items already painted.
  7. Poor Surface Cleaning
    Dirt, dust, and grease can prevent paint from adhering properly. Failing to clean the surface thoroughly can result in peeling and chipping paint.
  8. Ladder Safety
    Ladders can be hazardous even at 4’ tall. Be sure that if you need to use a ladder that it is in workable order, that it is on an even surface and that you always maintain at lead one hand and two feet on the ladder at all times. Never stand on the top edge of the ladder and make sure that you are not over extending yourself or that you aren’t scared of heights.

Other things to take into consideration

Effective Surface Cleaning Methods
Clean your surface thoroughly with a mild detergent and water. For stubborn grease, use a degreaser. Make sure the surface is completely dry before you start painting.  

Using Quality Paint
Investing in high-quality paints can make a big difference. They often require fewer coats, have better coverage, and look more vibrant. A high quality paint resists scuffs, is cleanable and colors are less likely to fade.
 
Applying Multiple Coats
Don’t be afraid to apply multiple coats of paint. 2 coats is the standard. Certain saturated colors like Red, Blue and Purple can require more applications. It’s better to have a couple of thin coats than one thick, gloopy coat. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
 
Drying Times and Conditions
Pay attention to the drying times recommended by the paint manufacturer. Also, consider the humidity and temperature of your environment, as these can affect drying times.

Painting doesn’t have to be a daunting task filled with pitfalls if you take the proper time, plan and invest in high quality tools and paint. By preparing properly and avoiding common mistakes, you can achieve a beautiful, professional-looking finish. Remember to take your time, use the right tools, and follow the tips outlined above. Happy painting!

FAQs


 1. How long should I wait between coats of paint?
 Generally, you should wait at least 2-4 hours between coats of paint. However, it’s best to follow the drying time recommendations on the paint can.

 2. Can I use any type of paint for my project?
Different projects require different types of paint. For example, use latex paint for walls and ceilings and oil-based paint for trim and doors. Always check the label for suitability.

 3. How do I clean my brushes after painting?
Clean brushes with warm soapy water for latex paints or mineral spirits for oil-based paints. Rinse thoroughly and let them dry completely before storing.

4. Why is my paint peeling?
Peeling paint can be caused by poor surface preparation, applying paint to a dirty or greasy surface, or using low-quality paint. Make sure to clean and prime surfaces properly before painting.

5.  How can I prevent paint from seeping under painter’s tape?
 Press the tape down firmly along the edges and remove it while the paint is still slightly wet. This helps create a clean line and prevents seepage. 

1 Roberts Way Hillsborough Arana Paint and Wallpaper-1

Why You Need a Professional to Paint Your Cabinets

by with No Comment FAQs and Painting Basics

Do you have time to paint your cabinets yourself? Do you know how to paint cabinets? Do you know how to use a paint sprayer? In today’s fast-paced world, you don’t have time to screw up a job like this. You want your cabinets to look good and function properly after a paint job. Not to mention, you don’t want the surrounding areas to be ruined in the process! The condition of your cabinets can dramatically influence the overall ambiance and value of your home. Replacing cabinets is a major expense and painting them has its pros and cons, but can be significantly less costly and provide a dramatic change for your space. While it might be tempting to consider a DIY approach for your cabinets, the benefits of hiring a professional paint contractor are significant. Here’s why:

Knowledge, Skill and Precision

Professional Painters bring years of skilled trade to the table. They know how to manage the process properly from start to finish. From masking the floors, surrounding fixtures and countertops to proper preparation of the surfaces, professional painters will significantly reduce the time and headache involved. If your cabinets are currently stained, do you know what the best primer is to seal the wood tannins? Masking and covering is only one element, cleaning and sanding is another and then priming, patching, caulking and filling to achieve a paintable surface. AND then there is the applying the paint which is only a quarter of the job. This expertise guarantees that your cabinets will not only look impeccable but will also withstand the test of time, maintaining their beauty and durability for years to come.

High-Quality Tools and Materials

When you entrust your cabinet painting to professionals, you also benefit from their knowledge of what constitutes quality tools and materials. From brushes and rollers to paint and primer, caulk and patch materials, professional painters are equipped with everything needed to achieve quality results. These tools and materials, often inaccessible to the average DIY enthusiast, are crucial for achieving a professional-grade finish that enhances the overall look and feel of your kitchen or bathroom.

Time and Cost Efficiency

One of the most compelling reasons for hiring a professional painter to paint your cabinets is because they far more efficient in getting the job done. What might take a DIYer several weeks to complete, a professional can accomplish in a fraction of the time. Saving time is saving money. You are free to do what you’re best at and your living space, especially your Kitchen, is disrupted for a much shorter period of time allowing you to return to normal routine much quicker. Additionally, common DIY mistakes are eliminated, reducing cost and time. Money well spent!

Attention to Detail

The difference between a good job and a great job often lies in the attention to detail. Professional painters (well, depending on which company you hire)  are methodical and meticulous. They have a tried and true process that has worked repeatedly and they ensure every inch of your cabinets is properly prepared, painted, and finished. This includes sanding, priming, patching and caulking, steps that are frequently overlooked or improperly executed by a DIYer or frankly, a bad painter. 

Customization and Personalization

Hiring a professional opens up a world of customization and personalization options for your cabinets that go beyond mere color selection. Professionals can provide expert advice on the latest trends, color schemes, and finishes that can elevate the look of your space. They can also offer solutions tailored to your specific needs and preferences, ensuring your cabinets not only look fantastic but also reflect your personal style and complement the overall design of your home.

Increased Home Value

According to iProperty management , paint is a 2.5 times return on investment meaning you will make more money off painting the cabinets than keeping that old dreary color. A cabinet paint job can update and transform the look of your kitchen or bathroom, modernizing them and cleaning them up. You can brighten a space or make it so that the paint goes better with an existing granite slab. This aesthetic improvement alone could sell the house. 

Stress-Free Experience

If executed properly, having a professional painter paint your cabinets can make for stress-free experience from start to finish. You want to look for a company that separates sales from ownership, that has a dedicated Production Manager, that sends you a consistent crew that will start and finish your project. You want a company that provides you with a bid that complies with the Business and Professions code of your state and provides you with a Scope of Work, Work Process describe, properly detailed payment schedule, a notification to cancel contract in 3 days and contact information for your State licensing board. 

While the idea of painting your cabinets yourself might seem appealing initially, the benefits of hiring a professional painter far outweighs the perceived savings of a DIY approach. Call us today with any questions! 510-567-9559

Oakland Kitchen Painting

Oakland House Painting Project Grand View

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House Painting Project in Oakland, CA, Grand View.

Rebuilt from the ashes of the Oakland fire in 1991, this grand home with a grand view (on Grand View!) was ready for a kitchen refresh. Arana painted all of the cabinetry, taking it from a dated and yellowy stained wood to this bright and light, more modern design.

About Arana Craftsman Painters

Arana Craftsman Painters is a premier, family-owned residential painting company based in the San Francisco Bay Area. They specialize in both interior and exterior painting, bringing the beauty of homes to life with their expert craftsmanship.

Their services extend beyond painting to include plaster and drywall repair, wallpaper removal, wood restoration, waterproofing, caulking, and sealing. Clients have praised their superior workmanship and reasonable project timelines, noting that their homes look as if they were new after Arana’s work.

Arana Craftsman Painters serves the Bay Area, including cities like Oakland and Berkeley, offering professional painting services for both residential and commercial projects. Their experienced team brings years of expertise to each project, ensuring high-quality results that enhance the beauty and value of homes and businesses.

Alameda House Painting Projects

Alameda House Painting Project Pearl Street

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Beautiful home in Alameda we had the pleasure of working on.

We love houses that have lots of decorative details!

These homeowners chose a palette that not only reflects their love of U.C. Berkeley, but also highlights the craftsmanship on the vintage early 1900s woodwork. Choosing a darker gray for below the molding is another creative choice that adds to the curb appeal. And the fact that the houses on either side are gray on the one, and blue on the other, speaks to how choosing a palette can be a decision that plays well with others, and contributes to the beauty of the whole neighborhood.

A little bit about Alameda.

Alameda is a city located in Alameda County, California, situated in the East Bay region of the San Francisco Bay Area. The city occupies an informal archipelago, including Alameda Island and Bay Farm Island, providing a unique geographic setting. With a population of around 77,600 people, Alameda boasts a diverse community, where 24.6% of residents were born outside the United States. Alameda is characterized by its suburban feel, offering a blend of big-city amenities and small-town charm. The city takes pride in its sense of community and local initiatives, such as the “Love Our Island” campaign, which fosters civic pride and engagement

Piedmont House Painting

Piedmont House Painting Project

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It is EASY being green… It’s just not easy CHOOSING green

We think this palette is divine!!!👏 Great work on the part of the Designer, Leela Willow.
The color on the garage door is just a pleasure for the eyes!

PROJECT DETAILS: Spray application done by our Craftsman Painter Julio Cadenas on this gorgeous custom garage door. Part of a ground-up addition to a rustic former hunting lodge in the Piedmont Hills.

GARAGE DOOR COLOR: Rainy Afternoon 1575, Benjamin Moore in Satin finish

NOTE: While we love Satin for the way that it can render any minor variations in the underlying surface less visible, as well as for its muted sheen, we generally recommend Semi Gloss — which is a bit shinier, yes, but also more durable — for any exterior wood surfaces.

BUILDER: Alward Construction

COLOR AND DESIGN: Leela Willow

What Is a Color Brush Out?

What Is a Color Brush Out?

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A question we often get asked is: “Do you do color brush outs?”

YES. We do!

What is a Brush Out?

A brush out is when your painter takes samples of the colors you are considering and paints them directly on the surface for you so you can see how they will interact with that surface, and how light affects the color throughout the day. Even light bouncing off the floor affects how a color reads.

We find that sometimes our clients need almost-life-sized samples to get a sense of what the final result is going to look like. This is one way we can help people choose!

How big is a brush out sample?

Often we go with a 2ft x 2ft square.

In the images on this post, as you can see, the colors the client is deciding between are not that far apart from each other in terms of tone. This type of choice can be particularly challenging.

The brush-out helps them compare and contrast, and make a better choice!

And yes, we will prime right over those samples before painting the room, so that the final result is clean and even.

Option B is to do brush outs on a card, which doesn’t give the same surface-interaction, but is close enough, and bonus, you can move it around the room to see the light in different areas.

However (are you still with us? This is pretty nerd-level detail…) we prefer painting directly on the wall, especially in older homes where walls often have a texture to them which causes the color to read a little differently.

How can we help you have the best experience with hiring a painting contractor for your home’s interiors and exteriors? Contact us to learn more about our full-service offerings.

Cass Morris 66th St cropped (1)

Rhapsody in Blue-Green: From Arana’s Portfolio

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With this recent exterior paint job, performed by Arana Craftsman Painters, this lovely Oakland home went from white-and-brown to shades of blue with hints of green, and gray trim. The color palette was selected by our dear colleague (whose services are included in our whole-house-exterior-paint contracts) Cass Morris.

Cass took in homeowners Kelly and Nat’s lovingly-tended gardens and the neutral tones of existing hardscaping and outdoor kitchen, as well as the palettes of neighboring homes, plus the couple’s general appreciation of blue, to devise this bright, lively, and harmonious exterior paint scheme.

Nat admits that they were initially skeptical. “We didn’t think we’d love having our entire house this color, but we do!”

At Arana, we love when bold risks, guided by experts in the world of color and design, yield such gorgeous results.

Body color (stucco): Benjamin Moore Del Mar Blue #704

“A muted blue-green” that can “quietly anchor” a palette, according to the company’s website

Doors, plus thin rails on front fence: Benjamin Moore Vermont Slate #1673

“Both traditional and modern,” a “cool blue” with “a touch of green”

Porch steps, walkway, plus thick rails on front fence: Duxbury Gray #HC 163

“A unique medium gray with a trace of green”

Door frames, window frames, stair railings: Benjamin Moore Quiet Moments #1563

“A gentle mix of blue, green, and gray… that exudes tranquility and inspires quiet meditation”

Color descriptions from benjaminmoore.com