What’s the deal with the name? Some people get it, some don’t. Its all about the work ethic. Upon arriving in the Phoenix area the owner noticed an overall distrust of the relaxed nature many of the local contractors had towards their work. Most customers were relieved to find a contractor raised with the dedicated work-a-holic-ethics of the east coast, the name was chosen in order to differentiate ECCFF from the pack of other faux finishers.
Can I call with simple questions? At ECCFF we understand our practices are vague and often mysterious to the novice. We understand there are no unimportant questions and are willing to field any curiosities whether you live in Phoenix or outside the valley of the sun.
Are you insured? ECCFF is licensed, bonded, insured and fully equipped to do business in the Phoenix area and all of Arizona. Licensing #230-604.
We have heard of other faux finishes that were less than permanent. Are your finishes durable and washable? The less than permanent faux’s were probably by companies that no longer exist. When ECCFF relocated to the Phoenix area we built our clientele on referrals, that can not be achieved from anything less than professional work. For close to two decades the owner has put his degree in the fine arts towards recreating the glazing methods of the classical renaissance painters using contemporary ingredients. Not only are our finishes completely washable the durable outer coat last longer than most quality house paints. Seventy percent of our clients come from referrals.
Can you repair other people’s faux finishes? Over the years ECCFF has become quite affluent at repairing decorative painting from other companies.
Do I have to choose from an existing pallet or set of colors? Most of the work ECCFF performs is customized to each unique environment or clients personality. In the 20 years it is highly unusual to find two homes or clients with exact needs.
Will any work be started before we decide on a finish? Some other faux finishers have a habit of creating samples on homeowner’s walls, it is advisable not to let anyone put any paint on your walls until a dialog has been created and you are sure this is the right contractor to take care of your home. Every perspective client has the opportunity to view several 2x2 ft. samples from previous jobs before a set of samples is created for the unique tastes of the new client.
Are your finishes durable enough for kitchens and bath rooms? Many of the rooms ECCFF has finished in the past few decades are kitchens and bath rooms. The outer layer of our finishes is more moisture repellent than most acrylic low sheen house paints and can withstand even the harsh temperatures of the Phoenix area. If required the outer layer can be adjusted from a velvet sheen to as high a gloss as is needed, although the lower sheens are just as durable
How long does the typical project take? There is such a wide variety of techniques available at ECCFF it is impossible to generalize estimates, but most clients are amazed at the speed their home can be transformed and find the ECCFF team quiet, well educated and joy to have in their home.
Is there a waiting list? At most times of the year a two or more week waiting list can be expected.
Will I receive an estimate of time for the project? During the pricing process a approximate completion time will be assessed and ECCFF has been extremely good at properly estimating project completion time over the years.
What do I need to do in preparation? First become familiar with ECCFF.com or start collecting pictures and internet images of your ideal look. During the initial meeting several examples will be showcased from previous ECCFF jobs in the form of 2x2 ft masonite boards. There are hundreds of samples at our disposal and in bulk are heavy and cumbersome so it would be helpful to get a general idea what colors and textures will be needed for the initial meeting. After getting input on your unique needs a set of samples will be made custumed designed with your project in mind.
Can my work be done while I am away? It is possible, but not necessary, to complete the work while the clients are away. The team at ECCFF takes the greatest consideration to any security or managerial directions explained by the owners. This can include picking up the morning paper, putting out or bringing in the garbage and recycling containers or occasionally taking care of the pets.
Is it possible to touch up your finishes? Our finishes are durable enough to weather normal wear. Touching up is usually not necessary, but if the wall is damaged touching up is possible. Ask to see before and after photos from previous clients repair work, sometimes we amaze our selves.
Is there a range of sheens available? Just as the hand made finishes of ECCFF can range from subtle and smooth to downright hectic the final gloss can be adjusted anywhere from a velvet sheen to a high gloss to suit each customers unique vision.
How much does it cost? Hiring a faux finisher is more about value. Some reasons why other faux finisher’s may have lower prices are the quality is poor or unprofessional, the initial price is low and will only be raised on the final bill or the bulk of the labor is performed by undocumented or under the table workers. The only time ECCFF increases the final bill is when the client adds additional work (which is about half of our jobs). Using conventional painting tools like rollers and sprayers will yield less than professional results. ECCFF performs most of the work by hand to guarantee professional results. A quality faux finish is actually very affordable considering the hours invested and the increase in home value received. Plus, any one who has ever tried some of the countless faux finishing products available in paint stores knows experience is worth the investment. All these words to say…“yes its expensive”, but it is an investment and the typical price for a faux finish in the Phoenix area begins at $4.00 a square foot and goes up from there depending on the complexity of the finish. Additional cost may be needed for repairs prior to the painting, which ECCFF is fully equipped to handle. Out of state work depends on traveling time and the nature of the job.
Do you offer any sort of financing? Absolutely. Please see our contact page for more details on financing and other payment options.
Are the artists of ECCFF available for commissioned painting projects? Many on our team have side lives in the arts. Take a look at the owners personal site at www.hgeorgeherbert.com |
