Frequently Asked Questions

Project details such as warranty, scheduling, and pricing vary. Confirm specifics with the Darlene Kay team before work begins.

Getting Started & Estimates

How far in advance should I request an estimate?

Most exterior projects book 4–6 weeks in advance during peak season, while interior work can often start within 2–3 weeks. Contact us early if you have tight deadlines or insurance timelines.

What is included in your written proposal?

Every estimate outlines scope, prep steps, materials, number of coats, warranty information, payment schedule, and any exclusions so you know exactly what is covered.

Do you require a deposit?

For most projects we collect a modest scheduling deposit (often 20–30%) with the balance due when the work is complete and the punch list is finished.

Which areas do you serve?

We regularly work in Aurora, Denver, Centennial, Parker, Littleton, and surrounding Front Range communities. Ask about travel for jobs outside the metro area.

Are permits or inspections required?

Interior painting and popcorn removal rarely require permits. Roofing, structural repairs, and some gutter replacements often do—our team coordinates any necessary paperwork with local jurisdictions.

Interior & Exterior Painting

How do you prepare surfaces before painting?

Preparation typically includes cleaning, scraping loose material, sanding, caulking gaps, repairing drywall or siding, and priming bare areas so the new coating bonds correctly.

Do you offer low-VOC or specialty coatings?

Yes. We regularly specify low- and zero-VOC coatings for interior projects and can recommend high-build elastomeric, metal, or cabinet finishes as needed.

How long should I wait before moving furniture back?

Paint is dry to the touch within hours but takes up to 30 days to cure fully. We recommend waiting 24 hours before heavy use and using felt pads or sliders during the first week.

What warranty do you provide on paint work?

Industry-standard warranties range from 1–3 years depending on surface type and product. We outline coverage for peeling, blistering, or adhesion failures in your contract.

Can you work around business hours or occupied homes?

Yes. We schedule work in phases, set up containment, and coordinate with building managers so households and businesses can remain operational while we paint.

Roofing & Storm Restoration

How quickly can you inspect storm damage?

During hail season we reserve slots for emergency calls and can usually inspect within 48–72 hours. We document shingle bruising, dents, and collateral damage with photos for your records.

Do you work with insurance adjusters?

Yes. We meet adjusters on-site, review their scope, and provide supplements when legitimate repairs or code upgrades are omitted from the initial estimate.

How long does a roof replacement take?

Most asphalt-shingle roofs are completed in 1–2 days. Complex roofs with multiple facets, steep slopes, or specialty materials can take 3–4 days including final cleanup.

Do you install ventilation or decking upgrades?

We evaluate attic ventilation, flashing, decking, and insulation during every tear-off. Upgrades such as ridge vents or ice-and-water shield are included when needed to meet code and manufacturer specs.

Can you provide temporary repairs?

If a storm leaves openings or leaks, we can tarp damaged sections or perform stop-gap repairs until full replacement materials arrive.

Gutters & Water Management

Do you fabricate seamless gutters on site?

Yes. We run seamless aluminum or steel gutters from our truck to the exact length of each fascia run, minimizing seams that can leak over time.

What sizes and materials do you offer?

Five- and six-inch K-style aluminum is standard. We also install oversized downspouts, copper, and box-style gutters for high-volume drainage or architectural designs.

How do I know if gutters need repair or replacement?

Signs include fascia rot, pooled water near the foundation, seams pulling apart, peeling paint, or visible sagging. We assess and recommend repair, reinforcement, or full replacement.

Do you install gutter guards?

Yes. We offer several guard systems and match the mesh or cover to the type of debris on your property (pine needles, leaves, roof granules).

How often should gutters be serviced?

Plan on cleaning twice a year—after spring pollen and before winter snow. Homes with heavy tree cover may require quarterly service to avoid overflow.

Popcorn Ceiling Removal & Interior Updates

Do you test for asbestos before removal?

Ceilings installed before 1985 may contain asbestos. We can coordinate third-party testing and proceed with certified abatement procedures when required.

How do you protect the rest of the home?

We isolate rooms with plastic containment, cover floors and fixtures, and use negative-air filtration to keep dust from traveling.

Can you match a new texture or leave the ceiling smooth?

Both options are available. After scraping we repair seams, skim coat as needed, and either spray a light orange peel/knockdown or leave a level-five smooth finish.

How long before the room is usable again?

Most projects wrap in two to three days. Ceilings are ready for primer and paint as soon as the skim coat cures—usually within 24 hours.

Will you paint after the texture is removed?

Yes. We typically prime and paint ceilings right after removal so the space is fully finished when we leave.

Project Logistics & Customer Care

Who will be on site each day?

A dedicated crew lead manages daily progress, provides updates, and walks the property with you at key milestones.

How do you protect landscaping and interiors?

We use breathable coverings, plywood walkways, and magnetic sweepers to collect nails. Interiors are masked, ventilated, and cleaned daily.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept checks, major credit cards, and insurance proceeds. Financing options can be discussed for large projects.

What happens if weather delays the job?

We monitor forecasts closely and reschedule exterior work when conditions fall outside manufacturer recommendations. You will receive updated timelines immediately.

How do you handle punch lists and final cleanup?

Before final payment we complete a walkthrough, correct any issues, and leave the job site broom-clean with debris removed.

Need a tailored answer for your property? Contact the Darlene Kay team and we will build a plan that fits your schedule, budget, and goals.