K&M Fine Painting

This rating is based on the deck's appearance 18 months after the work was done versus the representation given when initially discussing whether to stain or paint the decking surface. The contractor assured us that the paint would hold up for 5 to 7 years, despite the extremely weathered condition of the wood and fact that it had not been treated for at least 5 years. The paint began peeling after only a year and now, almost two years after the work was done, there are very few unaffected areas. When the contractor took on the project in August 2011, we had lived in the house for 8 years. The deck had been powerwashed a few times but not otherwise treated. When talking to potential contractors about the project, I inquired about possibly sanding the deck surface because of its very rough condition and neglect over the years . K&M agreed to sand the handrails before painting. However, the deck surface was prepped only by powerwashing - - - no sanding was done, no primer or sealer was used, and rusted nails were not treated to prevent bleed-thru. Two boards were replaced at my request. The owner of K&M and two additional workers performed the work. Labor included two coats of paint to all surfaces, replacing the two deck boards and powerwashing. The original labor estimate was $1,500 (crew of three for 5 days). The final invoice showed a 40% labor overrun versus estimate. When discussing with the owner, he attributed overrun to "thirsty" wood and the difficulty in painting lattice work. I gave the "F" rating for price because the project cost 40-50% more than estimated and $215 cost for tank of water w/ powerwasher on trailer (we have well) was not part of the original estimate. In conclusion, I would say that deck restoration is not an expertise of K&M Fine Painting. In hindsight, shame on me for not requesting that K&M provide references for deck restoration projects previously undertaken.

Tile work was acceptable. Paint work was acceptable. Drywall repair work was horrible. i questioned his method, and he assured me it would turn out fine. He has basically made my ceiling a complete mess, and will not stand behind his work. He has replied with several excuses, and I had another contractor look at it and he said the only thing wrong was K and M Fine Painting's work was terrible. Now, Mr. Walters will not communicate, leaving me no choice but to seek legal advice. Further, K and M Fine Painting advertises as having a Pa HIC license, but it has been expired since July 2011. As of today, it has not been renewed, so he is operating without a license. Finally, during an 8 hour work day, he might have worked 4-5 hours. The rest of the time was spent with him and his employee sitting in their van in front of my house in our development smoking. This was so excessive, some of my neighbors were not comfortable and questioned me about it. Beware of using this contractor, if he advertises as having a lisecnce and doesn't, I have to question if he has any insurance either. It was by far the worst experience I have ever had with any contractor.