Mark of Elegance Painting LLC

This project presented a unique set of challenges for any contractor. As my home was built in 1911, the basement windows are just above ground level outside. The ceiling height is quite low and – as a result – neither myself nor any of the previous homeowners have installed a drop ceiling. In fact, since the home was first built, nothing had been done to the basement ceiling, except for several coats of paint. Moreover, as the years have passed, the ceiling has continued to accumulate more and more additions from repairs, renovations, installations, and all other modifications the home has been subject to. Prior to this project, the status of the ceiling was a complex and hideous amalgamation of ceiling joists, cross braces, ductwork, plumbing pipes (metal and PVC) and valves, Romex, other wire bundles, electric junction boxes, vents, gas lines, old phone and television cables, icemaker supply tube, clamps, hardware, brackets, hooks, clotheslines, and any other imaginable thing that people like to nail up to a naked ceiling. In short, it was a mess. Visually and aesthetically, I wanted a contractor who could come in and reduce all this clutter on the eyes. Since a drop ceiling was out of the question, Dryfall ceiling paint seemed the best option to me. I thought back to my previous experience with Haniyf and his company, Mark of Elegance. Even though I had been collecting other quotes, I knew he was the man for the job, due to his pursuit of quality in his work and his experience and knowledge as a painter. This was not an easy project. Haniyf, as always, discussed all the apects and ramifications of this job prior to quoting me on it. He budgeted ample time for the prep work, which was – in my opinion – the most difficult yet important part of the job. If the ceiling had not been properly prepped, the paint job would only have lasted a very short amount of time. As he always does, Haniyf wrote up a very detailed description of the work he and his team were to perform. Prep work included scraping all loose and chipped paint from existing areas that had been painted, sanding down to the wood (where needed and where possible to reach), removing all nails and hardware with no purpose. Also, all shut-off valves, walls, windows, furnace, hot water heater, and appliances were to be masked off prior to painting. Haniyf's quote included painting all exposed ceiling areas (joists, PVC, pipes, ductwork, wiring, cables, gas lines, hardware, etc.). In short, anything that was above a pre-agreed upon line was to be painted black to "homogenize" the overall look of the ceiling and give it that industrial or warehouse appearance that is popular in many restaurants, nightclubs, music venues, design studios, and contemporary businesses. Once I had accepted Haniyf's quote, we agreed to conduct a walkthrough to review the objectives of the job and the ceiling's pre-work status. This is another of Haniyf's strengths as a contractor: not only does he listen attentively to his clients, he also communicates very well so as to avoid, beforehand, any misunderstandings or possible errors in executing the actual job. We had a clear understanding of exactly what the goals and objectives of the job were and the crew began. First, all remaining furniture, cabinets, or miscellaneous items were collected into one area. In all, there were 4 zones which were to be prepped and painted: the main area, laundry area, office, and a back room. The crew worked feverishly to scrape and sand the wooden surfaces. This was – for me – the single most impressive part of the job, due to the amount of sweat equity and simple hard work involved. Everyone wore respirator masks and many of the areas really required a lot of elbow grease and dedication. At this juncture, Haniyf's work ethic again rose to the occasion. Had it not been for the effort of Haniyf and his team, the final paint job never would have lasted. Other contractors that I had contacted did not include much prep work and not a single quote included any sanding. I personally believe that Haniyf went beyond the call of duty to sand after scraping, but I took photos to document what an amazing job the crew did of prepping all the surfaces. Obsolete hardware and old rusted nails and screws which served no purpose were also removed. All the webs, dirt, paint chips, and sanding dust were cleaned up and vacuumed from both the floor and the ceiling. Work stretched out over several days. Each morning the team would show up at the agreed-upon time. If ever there was a change in schedule, Haniyf always kept me abreast and informed of the situation. There were never any surprises or days of work missed. As discussed, the walls, windows, and vents were carefully masked off, along with all shut-off valves and gas valves. Haniyf even thought to remove outlet covers prior to painting and he covered the neutral, hot, and ground receptacles to avoid painting inside of them. The hot water heater, furnace, washer, dryer, and sink were all either masked off or draped with drop cloths to protect them from the paint. One final walkthrough was conducted with me just to make sure we were all on the same page. Once half the basement was painted, all the furniture, cabinets, or miscellaneous items were then moved back into the painted areas. That way, the other two areas could be painted without any clutter on the floor. At this point, Haniyf had noticed that some of the old ductwork was exhibiting slight signs of mineralization or efflorescence. Even though the flat black Dryfall was adhering and covering well, there were some tiny white specks of salt residue or mineralization showing through. Rather than to simply forge ahead and ignore the issue, Haniyf lightly sanded these areas and actually repainted them to completely eliminate the issue. He then instructed his team to wipe down the remaining ductwork with mineral spirits to minimize any type of mineralization from "bleeding through" the paint job. Again, this was indicative of his excellent work ethic and pursuit of quality. For these reasons, I will always work with Mark of Elegance when I need quality work done with attention to detail. The team went on to finish painting all remaining areas. Then Haniyf went back in touching up any spots that may have been missed or only lightly sprayed. With so many years of dust covering all the items suspended up in between and across the ceiling joists, a lot of work had to be done ahead of time. Blowing off all that fine dirt and those dust particles was just another portion of the prep work. Paint had to be sprayed at so many different angles to obtain an even, thick coverage. In the end, the job turned out fantastic. The basement ceiling has a brand new, clean, fresh, contemporary look instead of being a visual distraction and nightmare. After completing the work, the guys cleaned up all the waste materials, debris, empty paint containers, and trash. They carried everything out, folded up their drop cloths, and packed up their tools and equipment. A final vacuuming of the basement floor and I was left with a spotless basement. Big kudos go out again to Haniyf and the guys at Mark of Elegance for a superb job. After squaring up on the payment, I was so impressed with their work that I ended up giving Haniyf a $100 dining certificate to a favorite Mexican restaurant so he and his two main assistants could enjoy a nice meal. I have hired a lot of contractors over the years. Trust me, you cannot go wrong when you hire Haniyf and Mark of Elegance. Their work is top-level, completed on-time, without any hassles, and for a competitive price. Thanks again, Haniyf!

Haniyf (Mark of Elegance) came to my house to visually assess the damage and develop the best strategy and approach to take in order to properly repair the ceiling. He was was extremely knowledgeable regarding techniques and materials and was able to offer me a couple of repair options. He always conducted his business in a professional manner, yet also has an affable and engaging character, which made working with him a pleasurable experience. He is also a good listener, thus he understood the importance of me following an order of a series of renovations I was doing in my home. I needed this work to be done after plumbing work had been completed, so he had to be flexible and fit me into a schedule that met both our needs. Haniyf explained each step in his process and approach, so that I understood exactly what was going to take place and the timeframe in which the job would be completed. We agreed upon a price which was very fair and competitive. I had received other price quotes before his, but his experience, professionalism, and personality made my final decision an easy one. Haniyf and his crew arrived each morning as planned — very punctual and dependable. He had all the necessary tools, equipment, and materials and never had to interrupt the workflow of the project to go out and purchase anything. He even had his own scaffolding to utilize when necessary. There were several steps and phases to this project, each was performed as explained and in a timely manner. All furniture was removed from the room and any vents, doorways, and passages were sealed with plastic sheeting and taped off to contain construction dust and debris. In addition to the one large damaged area, Haniyf also repaired a wide crack that had plagued us for 23 years. It ran the length of the ceiling and is now invisible. Haniyf and his crew also primed and painted the ceiling when the repair and skim coating had been completed. He applied an oil-based extreme blocking primer, followed by two finish coats of flat, bright white ceiling paint. Afterwards, Haniyf and the team cleaned up the workspace, vacuumed every nook and cranny, carried away all the construction debris and trash. They even assisted me in moving back some of the heavier furniture. I highly recommend Haniyf (Mark of Elegance) and his crew to handle any type of painting, plaster, and drywall work you need done. There is no replacement for experience, knowledge, a great work ethic, integrity, reliability, and honesty, Thanks so much Haniyf. I look forward to working with you again in the future.

Mark was pure professionalism. He was punctual, polite and went above and beyond in services provided. He did exactly what he said he was going to do, and then did more because he felt that it was needed...no extra charge. We will use him again, and recommend him and his workers to anyone who asks!

We are very pleased with how our paint job came out. The guys were very professional and made the experience as pleasant as possible. I would highly recommend this company and I will be using them for all my future painting projects.

I'm satisfied with the work and would recommend him to anyone.

Excellent service. Clean up very well. He and crew were professional and courteous. Will have them back for future jobs when their schedule permits.

Second time we used service. Both times he exceeded our expectations. Highly recommend his service.

Dry wall issues that were once an issue can't be seen. Haniyf and team did an excellent job.

When we called Mark of Elegance we needed to repaint the interior of our house - it required a great deal of repair work to the walls, moulding, and trim in almost every room combined with a very tight timeline. Haniyf was right on time for our first appointment, he wasn’t phased by any part of the challenges, and calmly explained the level of repairs, prep, and craftsmanship I expected was their standard. After we reviewed the pricing, he promptly sent over a proposal/quote in writing with all the details of their standards itemized and guaranteed. On day one I met the team Nick and Eric - it seemed too good to be true. All my tension had faded by mid-day from the amount of work they had already put forth, and things they had noticed on their own vs what I had pointed out during the first meeting. The amount of care, professionalism, and attention to detail made it clear they were true experts treating this as if it were their own home. Further, the extra effort they put in to communicate with me while I was at work, and keep the project on track to completion in time despite the inevitable surprises was above and beyond. Everyone was on time every day, they showed exceptional courtesy to our home and neighborhood, and they delivered a truly perfect job. This is a group of consummate professionals. I would recommend them to anyone, and will definitely hire them again. The level of integrity and professionalism they bring is exceedingly rare. The work they did on my home is exceptional and flawless and exceeded my expectations. The price is definitely worth the work they put in. Mark of Elegance is worth every penny !!!

The team did the best job of any previously hired painters. So professional. I will use this company again.

Haniyf, Eric, and Nick were a great team and a pleasure to have in our home. They did a great job and we are very pleased with their work. We have plans to paint more in the future and will hopefully be using them again!

If you want your home painted the right way call Mark of elegance. These young men were excellent and some of the hardest working professional painter around. The time and work put into my home was masterfully done. Thanks to Mr.Mark and crew my home is beautiful again. I highly recommend Mark of elegance!

Mark of Elegance did an exceptional job painting our basement! Haniyf and his crew completed several drywall repairs flawlessly. You can't even tell where the repair spots were. They went above and beyond with prepping the basement before painting to ensure a great finished product. Our basement now looks fantastic! They were punctual, nice and very hard working. We would highly recommend Mark of Elegance for any painting or drywall repair project.

From their attention to detail through their craftsmanship, you will not be disappointed with this hardworking crew of professionals. Mark of Elegance met and exceeded ALL of our expectations, and if there was a grade ABOVE A, they would get. Great work and great job - and our many thanks to Mark of Elegance!!

Haniyf Mark and his Mark of Elegance crew did a beautiful, professional job. We have had this home painted three prior times by other companies, and no one came close to the prep work and care shown by Mark of Elegance. They are pleasant, professional, and extremely hard-working. His price was the highest of the three bids I received, but I could tell, even by the way he presented himself at our initial meeting and the care he took in examining my home to prepare a very thorough estimate, that he was the one I wanted to do this job. An extra perk from him was the inclusion of a color consultant from Sherwin Williams in his bid. We are very happy that we chose Mark of Elegance.

excellant job, looks amazing. Fixed all nail pops and stress cracks. Cleaned up all everything. If you need a great painter you should hire them, you won't be dissapointed

I cannot day enough great things about this company. They were prompt, professional and just great to work with. They did an awesome job & cleaned up afterwards. Not only would we hire them again but will (and have) recommend them to family & friends. Thank you MOE!!!

They were excellent they did what I asked even though I Screwed up, should of had them come after l demo the kitchen. They were willing to come back and touch up for very reasonable price. I would recommend them to anyone. They cleaned up after themselves that's more then l can say for the electrician & carpenter. They rocked, Can't say enough about everything they did very very pleased

The work that was done far exceeded my expectations! Mr. Mark and his team did a phenomenal job! I would highly recommend them for the quality of work and attention to the smallest detail. Before they started painting, all the furniture and flooring was covered, then the ceilings and walls were sanded to ensure a quality finish. The final outcome is beautiful. You won't regret hiring them for your painting project!

Fantastic. Mark and his crew worked from the time they arrived till they felt it was time to go and even asked if they could stay longer one day. Mark kept me apprised on how things were going the whole way through. Very careful of my furniture very neat and clean. Very professional.Would highly recommend.

Haniyf and his crew did an excellent job. This job required extensive prep to protect masonry and windows, I was concerned but the crew was extremely careful in taping and papering all the necessary areas. These are very professional, polite and hardworking guys. They showed up exactly when they said they would, got started without delay, did a beautiful job and cleaned up very nicely. I HIGHLY recommend Mark of Excellence Painting.

Where do I start? From the minute I called to the end of project I was treated with the utmost respect. Mr. Mark came to my house and gave me a quote. Told me when he could start. He was right on time, always called to let me know what was going on (if he had to stop for paint) I never wondered when he was showing. Excellent communication!! Mr. Mark and his crew were so incredibly respectful. He did exactly what he said he was going to do. My room came out so beautiful!! The ceiling looks incredible and it needed a lot of work!! Mr. Mark worked on it until it looked perfect! The paint job is exceptional!! After the job was completed they did a beautiful job cleaning up as well!! I will definitely use Mark of Elegance Painting again. I would highly recommend them. I can not express the level of professionalism!! Thank you Mr. Mark for doing such a beautiful job on my family room!! I will definitely be calling for my next pain job!! God Bless Ms. Elizabeth

They were the best. Professional, personable, and a lot of patience. I changed the color of the living room after it was painted. When the whole house was complete, they cleaned up everything. I love the work so much that I am going to have him work on the outside. I definitely recommend Mark of Elegance! The work is beautiful. A+++++

From the original consultation, Haniyf was very receptive and listened to the type of work i wanted done. He walked walked me through the process and pointed out things I had not thought about. After quoting me the price, he wrote up an invoice explaining all work he and his company would perform, and cited a 3-4 day time frame for the project to be completed. After speaking with 3 other contractors, I decided to hire Mark of Elegance. On day one, Mark of Elegance (MOE) showed up 10 minutes prior to their 9 a.m. scheduled start time and were ready and prepared to get to work. Getting right to work, all members of his crew were polite, professional, and focused on my project. They owned the project and never looked back. Days 2, 3, and 4 followed suit with steady focus and hard work! Observing several hours of the process myself, I was impressed on how Haniyf continually assessed his own work and wanting to make it perfect. I was truly impressed with the passion and pride he and his team put in his work. They were prepping, sanding, and painting my house like it was their own. Haniyf, Nick, and Rhondae (I hope I spelled it right) had a very effective and efficient system and worked very well together! After finishing up today (day 4), I again was drawn to the sharp lines, smooth walls, and QUALITY of work this company performed. I have already referred 2 of my friends to this company whom were mentioning they needed painting done at their homes. If you are looking for a company to actually do what they say they are going to do and actually do it right, then give Haniyf and his crew your business. I would recommend them a million times over and will be using them again soon when I need to get my outside garage door painted! Haniyf, Nick, and Rhondae, thank you again gentlemen! You guys are truly a diamond in the rough in today's day and age of bad contractors, poor workers/work, and quality. You guys truly represented the 3 C's in business; Cooperation, Consideration, and Communication. Best luck in your future projects and business endeavors! Tony Skolarus

Hanyif, his dad Lorenzo and their crew were great. I hired them to tear out my kitchen ceiling to find a water leak and instead of tearing it all out, they started small and found the leak before creating a huge mess. They also patched drywall in another part of the house. Communication was prompt, clear, and we were able to effectively discuss the best strategy for a few odd challenges. I would definitely hire them again.