Advantage Painting Company Profile

n archetypal painter is a good way to describe Alan McCamish. Thinking about color, the best way to prepare a surface, the most durable way to finish off an exterior wall; these are the things that Alan enjoys most about his work. "I have a mindset that I want to do quality work that will make a difference," said Alan. Although he learned the carpentry trade at his father's side, Alan enjoys painting so much, he does not lament the injury that forced him to change gears from carpentry to painting. No doubt the background in building and carpentry is a valuable skill set for a housepainter. Having put nearly twenty years into his house painting business, Alan knows what works and what doesn't.

No Slap-Dash House Painting
Alan McCamish is a self-taught painter. "I basically learned how to do everything I do through well-reasoned trial and error," Alan laughed. He apprenticed with the union for a few years, and the experience was very valuable. "It was a good introduction to the industry and the tradesmen," he said. He is quick to point out that he is not your average painting contractor, however. He describes his dedication to improving the look of something as a genuine and worthwhile pursuit, not just a task to be ticked off the list as soon as possible so that the next job can start. "Too many of these guys are just looking to make a quick buck," said Alan. "Most of the time, customers are happy because they see a fresh coat of paint, and it looks great," but closer inspection reveals short-cuts and doomed-to-failure prep work. "If they don't notice it right away, they will when it needs to be re-done in a year."

Color and Confidence
Advantage Painting uses high-quality paint because there really is a difference from brand to brand, beyond simply cost. Most importantly, good, quality paint lasts longer and looks better, but it also goes on smoother and with less waste. That means savings in the long run. Alan McCamish makes no apologies for doing it differently, and his customers are pleased with his work, time after time, year after year.

Advantage Painting also eschews the easier, but less effective, method of spray only. Wherever possible, spraying is followed up by "back-rolling." After a surface is sprayed to get broad coverage, it is then thoroughly coated by hand with rollers to get complete sealing and evenness. This is distinguished from spraying that is done to achieve a glass-like surface. Advantage Painting also does excellent spray work when that type of finish is desired.

Alan McCamish says he loves to see his clients make bold choices with color, but his personal preference is for classy and understated design. "I have at least 200 quarts of paint, so I always bring samples to try out," said Alan about how his clients choose their colors. "I've seen some bad color choices," he reluctantly admitted (Alan is also a gentleman who is loathe to speak poorly of anyone). He loves to go to people's houses and talk about color and finish. He does not pressure anyone to choose a color, but "I try to be helpful with color advice," said Alan.


---Genevieve Albers
Staff Writer
The Prime Buyer's Report