Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do you use subcontractors, or will Paul Cliff be on the job? A: We do not use subcontractors. Paul Cliff, the owner of Cliff Painting LLC, is present on every single job site. When you hire us, you get the dedicated expertise and accountability of the owner himself, ensuring that our high standards for "perfectionist-level" quality are met every time.
Q: What areas of New York do you serve? A: We are based in Rochester, NY, and serve the majority of Monroe County. Our primary service areas include Hilton, Greece, Penfield, Pittsford, Victor, and Webster. If you are unsure if you are within our radius, please give us a call!
Q: Are you insured? A: Yes, Cliff Painting LLC is fully insured for both liability and workers' compensation. We are happy to provide proof of insurance prior to starting any project for your peace of mind.
Q: What is "Dustless Sanding" and why does it matter? A: Traditional sanding fills your home with fine airborne dust that settles on furniture, electronics, and in HVAC ducts. I use Festool sanders and HEPA vacuums that capture 98% of dust at the source. This keeps your home clean and safe for your family and pets while allowing us to achieve a perfectly smooth surface for painting.
Q: My home was built before 1978. Can you safely paint it? A: Yes. We are EPA Lead-Safe Certified. Many homes in Rochester (especially in areas like the Park Avenue district or older suburbs) contain lead-based paint. We are trained in specific containment and cleaning procedures to safely disturb lead paint safely without endangering your family or contaminating your property.
Q: Do you offer interior painting in the winter? A: Absolutely. In fact, winter is often the best time to paint interiors in Upstate NY. The air inside your home is drier during the winter months, which actually helps paint cure faster and harder than in humid summer months. We use low-odor, zero-VOC paints so you don’t have to worry about "paint fumes" while windows are closed.
Q: Should I replace my kitchen cabinets or refinish them? A: Refinishing is typically 50-70% cheaper than a full replacement. If your cabinet boxes are in good condition but look dated, we can professionally refinish them to look brand new. We don't just "paint" them; we degrease, sand, prime with high-bond primers, and apply a durable factory-grade finish that resists chipping and peeling.
Q: Do you remove wallpaper? A: Yes. Wallpaper removal is one of our specialties. We know how to remove old layers and stubborn adhesive without damaging the drywall underneath. Once removed, we skim-coat and sand the walls to ensure they look like they were never papered, ready for a fresh coat of paint.
Are you insured? Yes. Cliff Painting LLC is fully insured. We prioritize the safety of your home and our team. We are happy to provide proof of insurance upon request during your estimate.
Do you offer free estimates? Yes. We provide free, written estimates for all projects. We believe in transparency, so our quotes detail the scope of work so you know exactly what to expect—no hidden fees.
What areas do you serve? We are based in Hilton, NY, and proudly serve the greater Rochester area, including Greece, Brockport, Parma, and surrounding communities.
Do I need to buy the paint myself? No, I handle that for you. I have professional accounts with premium suppliers (like Sherwin-Williams) and can pass our contractor pricing on to you. Using our preferred products ensures the finish is durable and valid under warranty. However, if you have a specific paint preference, we are happy to discuss it!
How do you protect my furniture? Respecting your home is our top priority. We move furniture to the center of the room and cover it with clean plastic. Floors are protected with drop cloths or builder’s paper. Once the job is done, we move everything back and clean up thoroughly.
Do you do commercial painting for small businesses? Yes. We specialize in "Low-Disruption" painting for small businesses, boutiques, and offices (typically under 10 employees). We work efficiently to refresh your space with minimal impact on your daily operations.