Wednesday, January 30, 2013

Ken Rader Interiors | Fayetteville, AR | 479-443-3686

Ken Rader Interiors | Fayetteville, AR | 479-443-3686
Painters in Northwest Arkansas and servicing Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers, Bentonville and Bella Vista.
We offer several winter specials.  Call and make and appointment for a free estimate.
As Always,"Free color consultation with every job".Click here and visit our site

Saturday, January 26, 2013

Popular Colors for 2013

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We get asked a lot about which colors are the latest and which ones will stay around for a while.  Coming up on the end of January we are beginning to see what the front runners are.  And we here at Ken Rader Interiors L.L.C. have already completed several painting projects for the new year and are starting to notice what is popular.
We have also been reading articles and looking at the latest trends and what other decorators are seeing and saying on this subject.  So here are some highlights that we have gleaned so far.

The Hottest New Paint Colors

Will we be basking in purple? Is gray the new blue? We asked color experts from leading paint companies to tell us what they see as the most popular color for the new year.
blue paint swatch
First up is a blue that has been around for some time but like they say "Blue never goes out".

Aqua Chiffon

"I think everyone is looking for a little change, but nothing drastic. Aqua Chiffon is playful and happy, not too dark and not too light. I'd use it as an accent to bring some freshness to a bathroom or a bedroom. And since blue is relaxing, it would bring peace of mind, which everyone is yearning for right now." —TINA McHENRY: OLYMPIC PAINTS AQUA CHIPPON A58-3
blue paint
Next is a deeper blue which you are beginning to see in accessories and fabrics.

Oceanside

"People want more color, and they're not afraid of it like they used to be. We think teal blue is going to be important. It's already on the fashion runways. This is highly saturated, more blue than green, with undertones that make it feel sultry and mysterious. I could see it in a dining room or a bed-room, paired with red, amber, or earthy brown." —JACKIE JORDAN: SHERWIN-WILLIAMS OCEANSIDE SW 6496
gray paint
Grey is coming on strong so don't be surprised that you seem to be drawn to it.  It is a classic that is gaining popularity.

Cathedral Gray

"We're introducing a new gray, which goes along with the Belgian look of natural wood and natural linen. In the past, people thought gray was a drab, boring color, but now it feels modern. This is on the warm side, and it works well with other neutrals or brighter colors like yellow or blue. It helps balance things out." —DONNA SCHROEDER: DUTCH BOY CATHEDRAL GRAY DT 136
yellow paint
I know, you are probably thinking 60's.  However, for an accent color this is the choice of many.

Forsythia Blossom

"This color we're seeing for spring 2013 is a high-energy yellow. It's bright and positive — a concentration of happiness that gets you away from the seriousness of the world. It would work really well in a kitchen, or in a sunroom with a lot of white. But not a master bedroom — you'd never be able to go to sleep!" —DEE SCHLOTTER: PITTSBURGH PAINTS FORSYTHIA BLOSSOM 212-4
Blue/Gray is everywhere.

Organic Garden

"We need to feel grounded, and a color like this suits the nesting instinct. It's both warm and cool, the perfect balance of gray and blue and green. You could push it toward blue by adding orange or yellow, or bring out the green by accenting it with red. White would shift it to gray. It's malleable, which makes it a good investment for the long term." —CATHERINE POOLE: THE FRESHAIRE CHOICE ORGANIC GARDEN FA064

Grape Hyacinth

"I think this is the year purple will really get picked up. People want a sense of their own personal space, and this is something different — a grayed purple, like a field of lavender on a foggy morning. It's soft, not scary. I see it in a bedroom, or as a secondary color in a living room with warm beige and camel." —PEGGY CAN ALLEN: GRAPE HYACINTH 31-24
Green is soothing but can add life to any room as this choice of green does.

Cedar Green

"Green is symbolic of growth. It also embodies another word that's going to be extremely important in the next decade, and that's 'flexibility.' Green goes with anything — just look outside. It can work with what you already own, as well as anything you'd like to add. It can feel classic or contemporary. And it's restful. It makes me feel balanced." —SONU MATHEW: BENJAMIN MOORE CEDAR GREEN 2034-40

Turquoise

"If I had to pick one color, it would be turquoise. It's not just blue or green, it's both, which means it's calming and invigorating at the same time. And it makes you think of escaping to someplace tropical and beautiful. It's got a little spark, like sun shining on water. I used it in a powder room and people walked in and said, 'Wow!' " —LEATRICE EISEMAN: PANTONE TURQUOISE 15-5519 TPX
This is the first offering of the new year in the earthtones.

Maple Glaze

"All the trend reports have been saying purple, purple, purple, and I want to say something different. I think a color like this rich saddle-leather brown speaks of our American heritage — Craftsman homes and Native American textiles. It's earthy and sophisticated. And it would look terrific with purple, mossy green, or blackened burgundy." —ERIKA WOELFEL: BEHR MAPLE GLAZE UL120-5

Following are some pictures of the colors that we have selected above.  See if you agree how they are gaining popularity.

We hope that this will give you some food for thought when it comes to choosing your next color to paint.  To be sure, new variations of these colors will surface in the months ahead.  Of course it all boils down to what you personally like and what furniture and accessories you already have and want to use with the new paint job.
It is fun though just to browse through the magazines and online articles and see what people are choosing.  Change is the spice of life, so spice it up!
KEN RADER INTERIORS L.L.C. IS PROUD TO OFFER THIS INFORMATION.  WE OFFER ARTICLES ABOUT PAINTING AND DECORATING FOR YOUR EDUCATION AND ENJOYMENT.

WE ARE PROFESSIONAL PAINTERS AND DECORATORS IN FAYETTEVILLE ARKANSAS.
WE OFFER PAINTING AND DECORATING SERVICES THROUGHOUT NORTHWEST ARKANSAS.

FOR ALL OF YOUR PAINTING NEEDS CALL US AT (479) 443-3686
EMAIL US AT kennethrader@att.net and be sure and visit our web page at http://www.kenraderinteriors.com
  AS ALWAYS “HAPPY PAINTING AND DECORATING!”

Friday, January 25, 2013

Ken Rader tells you how to repair sheetrock

Some Basics that you will find helpful
By:  Ken Rader, Professional Painter in Fayetteville Arkansas
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It wouldn't be at all uncommon for you to find a need to repair drywall in your home that has been damaged or you may find an occasional protruding drywall nail head or screw head that will require attention. If you choose to repair these damaged places, you might need a few tips. Here are 4 steps that will be of help to you in repairing damaged drywall.
Step 1 – Fill Dents or Holes

If your dent is shallow—that is, if it is ½" or less in depth—you will be able to patch it using only joint compound. If it is deeper, or if you have a hole through the drywall, you will need to apply a patch over the damaged area. For a shallow dent, spread a layer of mud (joint compound) over the dent. Then, cut a small piece of drywall paper or fiberglass screen and press it onto the drywall surface. The patch should cover the hole but should also leave a flat, even surface. Using your joint knife or putty knife, spread another layer of joint compound over the screen and allow the compound to dry.
You can use fast setting drywall compound.  It comes in a bag and is designed to set up and dry in 20 minutes, 45 minutes and 90 minutes.  I would recommend using either the 45 minute or 90 minute mix.  You have to be really fast if you want to use the 20 minute stuff.  It will set up in your mud pan and is a real job to get it cleaned out.  They are all easy sand and so you can fill and put on the final coat in just a couple of hours.

Step 2 – Apply Compound a Second Time
When the compound covering the patch is dry and you begin sanding, you may discover that the patch surface is slightly indented. If it is, apply another coat of compound and level its surface by drawing the flat edge of your joint knife across it. Be sure the surface is level. When it has dried and after you have sanded you find that the surface is still indented, apply another layer of compound. You can use regular joint compound for the final coating.  Just add a little water to it so that it will smooth easier.  Thin coats dry pretty fast.

Step 3 – Repair Protruding Nail Heads or Screw Heads
When finding a protruding nail or screw head, test it to determine if it is loose or whether it has simply not been driven deeply enough into the drywall and joint. Occasionally, a nail or screw will be driven into the drywall but will miss the stud into which it should have been driven. Pull these nails out of the drywall and fill the hole as described in Step 1. If the nail (or screw) is driven into the wall stud, but is not driven below the drywall surface, use a hammer or screwdriver to hammer it in or drive it further into the wall stud. The head will need to be sunk below the surface of the drywall. Then fill the depression with compound as described in Step 1.  It is usually best to use a drywall screw next to a nail that has popped.  This will keep the nail from popping again.  Be sure and recess the screw head into the drywall and fill the area with compound.


Step 4 – Sand and Paint
When the compound is dry the color in the center will be the same light shade as the color of the compound at the outer edge and you need to use your sand block and sandpaper to sand the surface. Using the sand block will be necessary to insure that the entire surface of the damaged area is flat and is the same level as the surrounding surface.  You can do what some describe as wet sanding.  Use a big sponge like they used for cleaning tile and lightly go over the compound.  Work with it just a little and you will see how you can remove some of it just like sanding, only without the dust. Finally, wipe the dust left from sanding and apply a coat of primer.  Use a premium acrylic primer that will dry in about one hour and you can paint it within 2 hours. When the primer is dry, apply a coat of paint that matches the rest of the wall.
Read more: We offer several articles that will help you make repairs, paint, wallpaper, strip wallpaper and choose you style of decor.
KEN RADER INTERIORS L.L.C. IS PROUD TO OFFER THIS INFORMATION.  WE OFFER ARTICLES ABOUT PAINTING AND DECORATING FOR YOUR EDUCATION AND ENJOYMENT.

WE ARE PROFESSIONAL PAINTERS AND DECORATORS IN FAYETTEVILLE ARKANSAS.
WE OFFER PAINTING AND DECORATING SERVICES THROUGHOUT NORTHWEST ARKANSAS.

FOR ALL OF YOUR PAINTING NEEDS CALL US AT (479) 443-3686
EMAIL US AT kennethrader@att.net and be sure and visit our web page at http://www.kenraderinteriors.com
  AS ALWAYS “HAPPY PAINTING AND DECORATING!”

Tuesday, January 22, 2013

Painters in Northwest Arkansas-"Old school skills"

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KEN RADER INTERIORS L.L.C. IS PROUD TO OFFER THIS INFORMATION.  WE OFFER ARTICLES ABOUT PAINTING AND DECORATING FOR YOUR EDUCATION AND ENJOYMENT.
Painting Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers, Bentonville and Bella Vista “Beautiful, One house at a time”

WE ARE PROFESSIONAL PAINTERS AND DECORATORS IN FAYETTEVILLE ARKANSAS.
WE OFFER PAINTING AND DECORATING SERVICES THROUGHOUT NORTHWEST ARKANSAS.

FOR ALL OF YOUR PAINTING NEEDS CALL US AT (479) 443-3686
EMAIL US AT kennethrader@att.net and be sure and visit our web page at http://www.ArkansasBestPainters.com
HAPPY PAINTING AND DECORATING!
Recently I posted an article about painting paneling.  Thank you for all of the views and comments.  Some of the comments were on the subject of the preferred type of primer that should be used on the wood paneling. Several commented that they would use "Old School" priming". This was in reference to using Oil based primers verses Acrylic or water based.
I think that what they were really referencing was their painting skills and work ethic.  Let me qualify this a little with an observation or two.
Several years ago, actually in 1989 I purchased a new Ford Pickup.  Bright Red, which is my favorite color.  When I drove it home I got bugs on the front and everywhere there was a bug it removed the paint.  I was upset to say the least.  I took it back to the car dealer to give them a look at it.  "Bugs have acid in them" was the response I received from the shop foreman. "Acid?" I asked, yes he says.  So I took my new truck home will spots of white primer showing through where the bugs hit.
Some time later my sister shared with me a small article in a magazine that acknowledged that there was a problem with the primer that was used on vehicles from the years 1985 till the present.  As a result the manufacturer was doing a somewhat silent recall of the vehicles and re-painting them for free.  Well I took my truck to the car dealer again and after some debate got my truck a new paint job.
Perhaps you have seen some pickups driving around that are of the 1980's and 1990's that are missing big patches of paint.  Chevy's and Fords mostly.  They used the same primer.
Well my point is that Old School surely does not refer to old products.  Products for the most part have improved drastically over the last 30 to 40 years.  Cell phones are now digital instead of analog, TV's are Tubeless and High Definition, tires are now all Radial verses Bias cords.  The list could go on and Paint products have improved as well.
No more lead, the introduction of Acrylic and Titanium have revolutionized the industry.  There are still Oil based Primers on the market but they can only be used in certain states in the country.  To fill the gap painting companies have formulated some excellent non-oil primers.
So, on with my point.  I too have often referred to myself as "Old School".  This reference is made to my skills, methods and craftsmanship in the field of painting.  Ken Rader Interiors has been in business since 1987 and the products that we use has changed dramatically.
Painting with Oil and Lacquer produced a beautiful job but the paint would change as time went by.  The paint would yellow or gray, crack or flake depending on what was painted.  And during those years in the 80's and 90's latex paint was not the greatest product.  But they have come a long, long way.
The professional painting industry has undergone tremendous changes since we first started.  The biggest change that we have seen is the introduction of the "unskilled painter".  They are usually the cheapest bidder on a project and the methods that are employed are usually OUTDATED.
That being said, I would suggest that painters use the term "Old School Painting Skills" instead of "Old School".  The customer should know that you will use the most up-to-date products available.
Ken Rader Interiors uses all of the latest, tested and proven products on the marked.  We will occasionally use "Oil based" products but this is rare.
If there is a material or object that will not allow acrylic or water based primer to stick, then Oil base will not stick either.  This has proven true many times over the years on many of our projects.  I do want to mention that premium primers must always be used.  You cannot compare PVA primer with Oil based primer.  But you can compare Premium acrylic primers with Oil based primer.
Well, I hope this does not offend any painters.  The phrase " Old School" does cause people to think of a time when things seemed to be made better and with more care.  That however is really not the truth.  I like my new iphone much better than my first mobile mounted cell phone (Cellular One was the company) that's a blast from the past.  I also have a Red pickup that I bought new in 2001.  No paint problems.  170,000 miles and still going strong.  And Ken Rader Interiors is a fan of the new paint and primer combinations that are being offered today.
Ken Rader Interiors is " Old School Painting Skills" and proud of it.  If you have a painting project in your future we invite you to investigate the painting companies in your area.  You will find many of them are " Old School Skilled".  You will find it a true pleasure working with them.
KEN RADER INTERIORS L.L.C. IS PROUD TO OFFER THIS INFORMATION.  WE OFFER ARTICLES ABOUT PAINTING AND DECORATING FOR YOUR EDUCATION AND ENJOYMENT.

WE ARE PROFESSIONAL PAINTERS AND DECORATORS IN FAYETTEVILLE ARKANSAS.
WE OFFER PAINTING AND DECORATING SERVICES THROUGHOUT NORTHWEST ARKANSAS.

FOR ALL OF YOUR PAINTING NEEDS CALL US AT (479) 443-3686
EMAIL US AT kennethrader@att.net and be sure and visit our web page at http://www.kenraderinteriors.com
  AS ALWAYS “HAPPY PAINTING AND DECORATING!”

Tuesday, January 15, 2013

Arkansas Best Painters- How to Paint a Room

HOW TO PAINT!  A FEW BASICS FOR YOU.
KEN RADER INTERIORS L.L.C. IS PROUD TO OFFER THIS INFORMATION.  WE OFFER ARTICLES ABOUT PAINTING AND DECORATING FOR YOUR EDUCATION AND ENJOYMENT.

WE ARE PROFESSIONAL PAINTERS AND DECORATORS IN FAYETTEVILLE ARKANSAS.
WE OFFER PAINTING AND DECORATING SERVICES THROUGHOUT NORTHWEST ARKANSAS.

FOR ALL OF YOUR PAINTING NEEDS CALL US AT (479) 443-3686
EMAIL US AT kennethrader@att.net and be sure and visit our web page at http://www.ArkansasBestPainters.com
HAPPY PAINTING AND DECORATING!

A room looks wonderful with a fresh coat of paint. But if you have a "Love-Hate" relationship with painting, you'll want to read our tips on getting a great finished product. You might even enjoy the project as much as the finished product!Start Out Right
  • You'll enjoy the job more if you get everything together at the start. Organize a tool station in the middle of the area you'll be working in. Gather together your paint, brushes, rollers, hammers, screwdrivers, plastic bags, plastic wrap, rags, paint can opener, and drop cloths.
Plan a Day for Prep
  • Don't try to get everything done in one day. Use the day before painting day to gather furniture in the center of the room, patch cracks and holes, put blue painter's tape around doors and windows, and cover wall and ceiling light fixtures (light bulbs removed, of course!) with large plastic bags.
Clear the Decks
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  • If you can, clear out all the furniture and accessories. Take everything off the walls. If you can't move everything out, place the furniture and lamps in the middle of the room and cover them with a good drop cloth. Be sure that you tape the cloth around the furniture. Then put a second cover of plastic or old sheet over everything.
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Remove All Hardware
  • It may seem easier to paint around door knobs or cabinet hinges, but unless you're a professional, very experienced painter, you're bound to get drips around. So carry around some zip top bags and remove all cabinet knobs and hinges, door knobs, light switch plates and outlet covers, and light fixtures. Place the pieces together in separate bags and clearly mark the contents and location (top left cabinet, bathroom door, etc) you took them from. This is a great time to clean the hardware! Put them back when you're done painting.
Get Yourself Ready
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I know this looks a bit extreme.  However, depending on how extensive your project is you may need to use some of this gear.  At the least you will need, safety glasses, and a dust mask.  And yes, this is me!  Total remodel of a 5,000 sq. ft. bldg.  I did not do it all myself.  I was involved with Texture of walls and ceilings, Drywall tape and mud, and painting.
  • No matter how hard you try, you're bound to get drips (or more) of paint on whatever you're wearing. So take off all jewelry. Reserve some old, but comfortable, clothes for your painting jobs. Slip-on shoes are easy to take off if you need to leave the room. You won't have to worry about tracking drops of paint into other rooms. When you paint the ceiling, put a scarf, shower cap, or old baseball hat over your hair and some plastic over your eyeglasses.
Don't Paint Over Problem Walls
  • If your walls have holes or cracks, fix them before you start with the paint. Any home center or paint store has knowledgeable personnel to guide you to the best products for the job. Wide cracks and large holes can be "bridged" with fiberglass tape, spackle will fill small holes and cracks, and texturizing products are available to match your existing wall finish.
  • We hope this helps.  If you live in the Northwest Arkansas Area give us a call or drop us an email.  We would love to assist you on your next painting project.
  • As Always "Happy Painting and Decorating"
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Thursday, January 10, 2013

Let there be WHITE!

Arkansas Best Painters
Ken Rader Interiors L.L.C.
We offer the latest information regarding trends, painting practices, interior decorating the best advise available about painting and decorating.
This is offered to educate you and hopefully give you some direction and help with your painting and decorating needs.
Please visit our web site http://www.ArkansasBestPainters.com
We post blogs on various platforms in an effort to make our information as available as possible.
Please leave a comment when you read one of our blogs.
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I know the google pluse link is super long so just click on it or copy and paste to browser
LET THERE BE WHITE!
By Ken Rader
Painter and Interior Decorator for Ken Rader Interiors L.L.C.
 Losing dark colors and heavy textiles is on the top of the list for many people.  They are ready to create a casual elegant gathering space.
SIMPLIFY WINDOW TREATEMENTS
Sheer Roman shades can replace the heavy and formal hanging curtain panels, welcoming lots of natural sunlight into a room.
BE OPEN TO UNEXPECTED MATERIALS
In lieu of a traditional wood coffee table or shelf, two custom cubes of concrete can add a contemporary addition.  Concrete is much more practical than marble or limestone and you can paint it white or a neutral.
UPDATE YOUR LIGHTING
Install linen draperies that match your wall color to make windows feel larger.  Keep it streamlined with a simple iron rod hung wall to wall.
SECRET WEAPON
Vinyl fabraics. If you want white upholstery but need it to be spill-proof, try faux leather.  It used to be called "Pleather" (Plastic Leather)
MODERN MOVE
Minimize lighting for maximum results.  Simple lamps with small globes or shades. Very simple lights hanging from ceilings.  It does not block vision and gives the sense of being open.
PAINT IT GRAY (GREY)
Soft gray paint can coat over darker or dated cabinets and walls.  The use of gray's can add a fresh feel and contribute to a continuous flow with no harsh lines to define spaces.
ESTABLISH A BASE
Large pieces of upholstery should not steal the show.   Keep them in solid neutral colors and they will blend.
MIX MATERIALS
Use stone, wood, metal,concrete, and glass. The balanced combination of textures adds depth.
CONSIDER SCALE WHEN SELECTING FABRICS
Large pieces like long sofa's can be paired with small print pillows.  All in whites or off whites.  Keep it simple in design and texture.
BRING IN PERSONALITY
Small drawings and silhouettes, piles of books, and a collection of pottery add personal touches while keeping with the all-neutral scheme.
We hope this helps.
Ken Rader Interiors L.L.C.
Painters in all of Northwest Arkansas (Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers, Bentonville and Bella Vista)
Visit our web page at http://www.ArkansasBestPainters.com
If you live in this neck of the woods, call us at (479)443-3686 for a consultation or estimate
Email us at KenRaderInteriors@gmail.com
As Always " Happy Painting and Decorating"
Ken Rader

Ken Rader Interiors- Why you should hire a professional painter!

KEN RADER INTERIORS L.L.C. IS PROUD TO OFFER THIS INFORMATION.  WE OFFER ARTICLES ABOUT PAINTING AND DECORATING FOR YOUR EDUCATION AND ENJOYMENT.

WE ARE PROFESSIONAL PAINTERS AND DECORATORS IN FAYETTEVILLE ARKANSAS.
WE OFFER PAINTING AND DECORATING SERVICES THROUGHOUT NORTHWEST ARKANSAS.

FOR ALL OF YOUR PAINTING NEEDS CALL US AT (479) 443-3686
EMAIL US AT kennethrader@att.net and be sure and visit our web page at http://www.kenraderinteriors.com
HAPPY PAINTING AND DECORATING!

The True Cost of House Painting

Have you ever wondered why hiring a contractor to paint your house costs so much more than doing it yourself. Many people have.
The reality is, when you do the job yourself, your only expenses are materials. Hiring a contractor costs more because running a business costs money! In addition, your contractor must factor a modest profit into the price; after all, that's how he makes his living. There are many factors that go into understanding the true cost of house painting.

Is Hiring a Professional Worth the Extra Expense?

For most people, the answer is a resounding "YES!" A qualified professional painter will have the expertise to identify and correct potential problems before the job even starts. When it comes to DIY projects, there is lot of on the job training. Most contractors, on the other hand have "been there, done that." Their experience helps them handle prep work, painting, and cleanup much faster than the average homeowner- with better results.
Professional painters also have all the tools to complete the job; because they use them frequently, they are more likely to use quality tools that last. Experience has also taught the pros which drywall compounds, primers, and paints provide the best coverage and lasting beauty. Homeowners trying to save a buck frequently buy inferior products and end up frustrated.

The Contractor's Expenses

Running a business is expensive. The cost of materials alone can be staggering, accounting for more than 1/3 of the project's total cost. The cost of house painting includes the purchase of paint and other supplies. For an straightforward job, this includes:
  • Sandpaper and Sanding Discs
  • Patching Compounds
  • Caulking
  • Tape, Paper, Plastic, etc.
  • Primer
  • Paint
  • Applicators; Brushes, Rollers, Sprayers
Damaged walls, special finishes, or unusual working conditions can require additional materials, and increase the cost of the job.
In addition to materials, every contractor has overhead that must be covered by project fees.
  • Legitimate businesses are bonded and insured; this is expensive, but it protects the homeowner against damages and uncompleted projects.
  • Business licensing, certifications, and memberships with trade associations and consumer protection agencies (like the Better Business Bureau) can cost hundreds or thousands of dollars.
  • Taxes- business owners are responsible for paying their own income and Social Security taxes. Depending on your location, your contractor may have to pay state and/or municipal income tax as well as federal.
  • Unless your contractor is a one man show, work comp, employee benefits, and wages are necessary business expenses. Depending on the contractor, administrative tasks, such as bookkeeping may be handled by outside agencies. These expenses, along with fees for subcontractors, are part of the cost of doing business.
  • Finally, fuel, maintenance and repair of vehicles and other equipment contribute to overhead. What About Profit?
  • Just as you couldn't spend 40 hours a week at work without compensation, your contractor cannot continue to run his business without earning at least a modest profit on his work. In reality, the profit a contractor earns is just a fraction of the total contract price.

  • Experience Matters

    Know that you know the true cost of house painting- and where all the money goes!- you're probably interested in getting the most bang for your buck. (Choose an experienced painter Ken Rader Interiors), not just lowest bidder, to complete your painting project- it's the best way to guarantee you'll love the results.
  • What About Profit?

    Just as you couldn't spend 40 hours a week at work without compensation, your contractor cannot continue to run his business without earning at least a modest profit on his work. In reality, the profit a contractor earns is just a fraction of the total contract price.
  • These are just a few things to consider when you are thinking about a painting project.  Ken Rader Interiors have been in business since 1987 and are Licensed and Insured.  Give us a call at (479)443-3686    AS ALWAYS "HAPPY PAINTING AND DECORATING!

Monday, January 7, 2013

What Colors will I paint in 2013?

KEN RADER INTERIORS L.L.C. IS PROUD TO OFFER THIS INFORMATION.  WE OFFER ARTICLES ABOUT PAINTING AND DECORATING FOR YOUR EDUCATION AND ENJOYMENT.

WE ARE PROFESSIONAL PAINTERS AND DECORATORS IN FAYETTEVILLE ARKANSAS.
WE OFFER PAINTING AND DECORATING SERVICES THROUGHOUT NORTHWEST ARKANSAS.

FOR ALL OF YOUR PAINTING NEEDS CALL US AT (479) 443-3686
EMAIL US AT kennethrader@att.net and be sure and visit our web page at http://www.kenraderinteriors.com
HAPPY PAINTING AND DECORATING!
I started off the new year by posting a couple of articles about the color trends for the coming year. I started with the interest in grey and then expanded into a wider range of colors.
These posts produced some lively discussions about color.  One person wanted to know by what authority I could offer these colors and that various other designers and magazines were in a much better position to make these decisions.  Others have been somewhat supportive yet are quite set in their own choices and picks in the color world.
As I recently mused another decorating article in a very popular magazine I was struck by the similarities of the colors being raved about and the colors that I had offered.  There was Purple, Pink, aqua blues and greens, orange,lime green, sort of an egg yolk yellow and a Sky Blue.
What I wanted to point out about these colors is that they are showing up in clothing, shoes, accessories, candles, lamp shades, rugs and pretty much any item that will have a somewhat shorter life of use than say carpet, draperies, couches, chairs and well you get the picture.
So, what will I be painting in 2013?  Purple, Pink, Aqua blue and green, lime green and egg yolk yellow.
You might be saying,"Are you Crazy!"  And the short answer is YES!  But it is in a relative sense.  The first relative that I will be painting these colors for is my wife.  ( gotcha)
We have lived in our home since 1987 and while it is a very humble abode we have succeeded in filling it with love and wonderful memories.  We have also filled it with a lot of furniture. The furniture that we have purchased is of high quality and it cost me a pretty penny.  The sofa alone "Henredon" cost me $10,000 dollars in 1998.  3 leather chairs, 3 ottomans and well you get the picture. These are as it were " set in concrete".  But, we have painted the inside of the house completely several times. These paint colors have been the latest in color choices.
We have been able to do this because the colors of the furniture pieces are timeless.  Nothing loud, plaid, striped.  Just Gold, reddish brown, buckskin, pretty much colors that have been around for years and will continue to do so.
The colors on the walls have run the gauntlet, Yellow, red, grass green, Catalina blue, periwinkle, burnt orange, and in my office, Royal Blue and dark espresso brown.  My office also has a concrete floor and so I can use a variety of rugs.
So, we are in the process of painting the living room, kitchen, hallways and dining room a spring grassy green.  Very hip and very cheerful.
We have some projects lined up that will likewise be some of the new color choices.  And we did help them pick out the colors.  (These people are not relatives though).  These are paying clients.  Some are clients that we have painted for in the past, though the not too distant past, and they want a little updating.
We did do another job for a relative in December but I am going to count it in 2013. It was an outside job of painting the house and separate garage.  The color was a sea foam green trimmed in linen white.   Beautiful.
These colors on the outside will be popular for 20 to 25 years and so will the paint job.  I mention this because while you will change the color inside you home every few years, you will not paint the exterior more that once in a lifetime.  So color choice is very important.  Pick something natural, calm, neutral.
2 years ago I painted a house that was pink inside and out. The original owner liked it but the new owners did not.  Everything had to go.  While the inside was a variety of favorite colors the outside was a deep forest green trimmed in white.  The owners know that the inside will be painted many more times as their family grows but the outside will remain as it is now for the next 20 to 25 years.
As a painter I enjoy all things paint.  It is fun to transform a room or a whole house by painting them.  The painting process can give you home a new lease on life.  You can make the house your home.
I think that is why paint is so popular.  In the 80's wallpaper was going big and I installed thousands of rolls of it.  But it did not have lasting power.  And it could not be easily or inexpensively changed.  Think of it, for a few bucks you can purchase a gallon of paint and with a few hours of work you can change a room completely and even though you have the same furniture, "It looks different"!   Smiles all around!
With so many problems and pressures in the world today, it is comforting to make little changes in our surroundings.  They make us smile and our friends and family enjoy the changes also.
So, I have shared with you what I am going to paint in 2013.  What about you?  Drop me a comment and let us know what you will paint in the coming year.  I'll bet that the color you land on is one of the latest choices.
KEN RADER INTERIORS L.L.C. IS PROUD TO OFFER THIS INFORMATION.  WE OFFER ARTICLES ABOUT PAINTING AND DECORATING FOR YOUR EDUCATION AND ENJOYMENT.

WE ARE PROFESSIONAL PAINTERS AND DECORATORS IN FAYETTEVILLE ARKANSAS.
WE OFFER PAINTING AND DECORATING SERVICES THROUGHOUT NORTHWEST ARKANSAS.

FOR ALL OF YOUR PAINTING NEEDS CALL US AT (479) 443-3686
EMAIL US AT kennethrader@att.net and be sure and visit our web page at http://www.kenraderinteriors.com
HAPPY PAINTING AND DECORATING!

Thursday, January 3, 2013

How did we do with Social Networking in 2012

We started 2012 in a new direction for us.  We launched our web site http://www.kenraderinteriors.com and started Blogging.  We did not know exactly where this would take us since it was our first venture into the cyber world.
We started slow but then we began to pick up speed in the blogging arena. We have posted the stats for 2012 to acknowledge all of you that contributed to our first year of success in the social media audience.  Our blogs were intended to educate all who looked at them and hopefully inspire you to decorate or paint something.
Decorating and painting are our passions. We will endeavor to continue to build upon the audience base that we have attracted.  And we promise to give you good information and expert advise.
I know that looking through stats for someone else can be boring so I ask that you indulge me.  Perhaps by seeing the success that Ken Rader Interiors has had over the last year will motivate you to start your own blog.  Education is a wonderful thing and learning something new can lift your spirits.
Please continue to read our blogs and feel free to share any comments you might have.
So "INTO THE FUTURE AND BEYOND"
The WordPress.com stats helper monkeys prepared a 2012 annual report for this blog.

Here's an excerpt:
600 people reached the top of Mt. Everest in 2012. This blog got about 2,800 views in 2012. If every person who reached the top of Mt. Everest viewed this blog, it would have taken 5 years to get that many views.
Click here to see the complete report.
KEN RADER INTERIORS L.L.C. IS PROUD TO OFFER THIS INFORMATION.  WE OFFER ARTICLES ABOUT PAINTING AND DECORATING FOR YOUR EDUCATION AND ENJOYMENT.

WE ARE PROFESSIONAL PAINTERS AND DECORATORS IN FAYETTEVILLE ARKANSAS.
WE OFFER PAINTING AND DECORATING SERVICES THROUGHOUT NORTHWEST ARKANSAS.

FOR ALL OF YOUR PAINTING NEEDS CALL US AT (479) 443-3686
EMAIL US AT kennethrader@att.net and be sure and visit our web page at http://www.kenraderinteriors.com
HAPPY PAINTING AND DECORATING!