FAQs for Professional Painting Contractors

Zook's Look van next to a body of water. The van is shown reflected in the water.

What should I look for when hiring a painting contractor?

Customers should look for licensed, insured and experienced professionals when hiring a painting contractor. Check local references to ensure the painting contractor is reputable and capable of getting your painting project done and done right.

How long has Zook’s Look, Inc. been in business?

Zook’s Look, Inc. has been in business since 1995 (and unofficially, even longer).

Do I need to be home when painting contractors are working?

Customers do not need to be home when painting contractors are completing their project. Our professional painting team will transform your home while you are at work, running errands or out with the kids. 

Does Zook’s Look have examples of work in central Iowa?

Zook’s Look has examples of completed professional painting projects posted on our website, Google, Facebook and Instagram. Check out Zook’s Look’s customer testimonials to see what other customers are saying about our work.

What kind of paint does Zook’s Look use?

Zook’s Look uses only professional quality paint from Sherwin Williams and Diamond Vogel, unless a customer requests a different brand.  We are happy to color match another brand’s paint colors so that your finishes are seamless. Zook’s Look always takes the time to find the right paint for the job.

Ok, I have decided to hire Zook’s Look for my painting project! What’s the next step?

Thank you!  We are happy to help bring your vision to life!  A Zook’s representative will discuss your goals for your project with you, take photos of the areas to be painted and make notes with all the details.  Chris Zook will create an estimate based on the discussion and supplies/labor needed to do a great job for you.  After you approve, sign, and return the estimate, we will schedule your project.

Who will be there to answer my questions or to address any concerns I may have throughout the project?

The Crew Leader and/or Supervisor will be available to answer most questions at any given time.  If you have questions outside of our normal business hours, or at any time before or during the painting process, you may call Chris Zook at (515) 450-4882.

Does Zook’s Look charge for estimates?

We never charge a fee to provide an estimate for your painting project.

How do you determine the amount you will charge for my painting project?

There are many things to consider when estimating a painting project: type and size of the painted area; type and number of windows, doors and other trim work areas; the amount of prep work needed for a quality, long-lasting paint job (which includes things like power washing, scraping, patching, sanding, priming, taping and masking); the quality of paint used; and the number of man hours required to perform all of these tasks.  All of these things need to be considered in order to provide you with an accurate cost estimate.

What hours do your crews work?

We generally work Monday—Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm.  We will sometimes do work at other hours or days if needed, but these are our standard working hours.

Do I need to move everything from the rooms when paint contractors paint?

Please move all small items and breakables from the rooms that professional paint contractors are working in.  You may choose to move the furniture away from the walls yourself, or the Zook’s team can assist with that for a small fee.

What is the difference between paint sheens?

Sheen refers to the light reflectivity of the painted or varnished surface.  There are varying degrees of sheen, from no sheen to high gloss.  Though some paint manufacturers may refer to their paint sheens by different names, paint sheens typically correspond with this list:

  • Flat finish
  • Matte finish
  • Eggshell finish
  • Satin finish
  • Semi-gloss finish
  • High-gloss finish

Certain sheens may be better for projects such as kitchen cabinets, exterior trim work or high-humidity areas like bathrooms.  Zook’s may recommend a certain sheen for your project based on their years of experience.