Frequently Asked Questions

  • How does exterior paint hold up in Central Washington's climate?

    Exterior paint in Central Washington must withstand intense sun, wind, and seasonal temperature shifts. At Steep Valley Painting, we use durable coatings and thorough prep—scraping, sanding, washing, priming, and caulking—to ensure finishes last through the region's challenging conditions in Rock Island and Wenatchee.
  • What prep work is needed before painting cabinets?

    Cabinet painting requires degreasing, sanding, and priming to achieve a smooth, factory-grade finish. At Steep Valley Painting, we use spraying techniques and durable coatings designed to resist wear, moisture, and daily use, transforming kitchens and bathrooms without full renovations throughout the Wenatchee Valley.
  • When should you stain a deck or fence?

    Staining is best done when wood is clean, dry, and after proper prep including sanding and mildew removal. In Rock Island's climate, staining protects against UV exposure, moisture, and temperature fluctuations. At Steep Valley Painting, we recommend refreshing stain every 2–3 years depending on exposure and weather.
  • What's the biggest mistake homeowners make with interior painting?

    Skipping proper prep like patching, sanding, and priming leads to uneven finishes and poor adhesion. At Steep Valley Painting, we prioritize meticulous surface preparation and temperature-controlled drying to ensure clean lines and smooth, long-lasting results in Rock Island and surrounding areas.
  • Can you match existing drywall texture after repairs?

    Yes, seamless texture matching is essential for invisible repairs. At Steep Valley Painting, we patch cracks, sand carefully, and blend textures so repairs disappear once painted. This is especially important in high-traffic areas and homes experiencing settlement common in the Wenatchee Valley.
  • Why is pressure washing important before exterior painting?

    Pressure washing removes dirt, mildew, loose paint, and surface buildup that prevent proper paint adhesion. In Central Washington's dusty, sunny climate, thorough cleaning is essential prep. At Steep Valley Painting, we use controlled pressure washing to ensure coatings bond correctly and last longer in Rock Island.
  • What are the benefits of removing popcorn ceilings?

    Removing popcorn ceilings modernizes interiors, increases visual appeal, and makes homes easier to clean and repaint. At Steep Valley Painting, we use controlled removal with dust containment and refinish with smooth, knockdown, or orange peel textures—ideal for updating older homes in Rock Island and Wenatchee.
  • How do you protect wood siding during exterior painting?

    Proper prep for wood siding includes scraping, sanding, washing, priming, and caulking to seal gaps and prevent moisture intrusion. At Steep Valley Painting, we tailor paint systems to wood type and use weather-appropriate scheduling to ensure durable, lasting finishes across Central Washington.
  • What's the difference between transparent and solid stains?

    Transparent stains showcase natural wood grain while offering UV protection, while solid stains provide more color coverage and hide imperfections. At Steep Valley Painting, we match stain type to wood condition and exposure levels, ensuring decks and fences in the Wenatchee Valley are both protected and beautiful.
  • Can cabinet refinishing update a kitchen without full renovation?

    Yes, cabinet refinishing transforms kitchens affordably by changing color, finish, and hardware without replacing boxes. At Steep Valley Painting, we use fine-finish spraying and moisture-resistant coatings to deliver factory-quality results in both older Rock Island homes and modern Wenatchee layouts.
  • How does concrete staining hold up in garages?

    Concrete staining and clear coats resist abrasion, moisture, and temperature swings common in Central Washington. At Steep Valley Painting, we prep surfaces with cleaning, grinding when needed, and patch repair, then apply protective coatings ideal for garages, patios, and workshops in Rock Island.
  • What makes wallpaper removal safe for older walls?

    Safe wallpaper removal uses moisture-controlled steaming and careful adhesive breakdown to protect wall integrity. At Steep Valley Painting, we repair any damage and prep surfaces for smooth painting, modernizing interiors in older homes throughout Rock Island and the Wenatchee Valley.