Frequently Asked Questions

  • Do you offer free color consultations?

    Yes, we provide free color consultations and virtual mockups for all of our clieents when working with us.

  • Are you fully insured?

    Yes, we're fully insured with experienced painters who have been trusted in the North Shore area for over a decade.

  • Do you use low-VOC paints?

    Yes, we use premium low-VOC and eco-friendly paints for healthier indoor air quality and long-lasting color integrity.

  • What areas do you serve?

    We serve Lynnfield, North Andover, Andover, Reading, North Reading, Ipswich and surrounding North Shore communities.

  • Can you paint cabinets?

    Yes, we revitalize kitchens and bathrooms with professional-grade spraying and durable enamel finishes that resist moisture.

  • Do you offer furniture refinishing?

    Yes, we professionally refinish tables, chairs, dressers and built-ins with custom finishes including distressed, matte or gloss effects.

  • Can you paint brick surfaces?

    Yes, we transform brick exteriors and fireplaces using breathable masonry coatings that prevent moisture trapping and efflorescence.

  • Do you work on commercial projects?

    Yes, we paint offices, retail spaces and apartment complexes with flexible scheduling including nights and weekends to minimize business disruption.

  • What's included in exterior prep work?

    Our exterior prep includes scraping, sanding, caulking and priming, plus surface cleaning and mildew removal for long-term adhesion.

  • Do you offer deck staining services?

    Yes, we restore decks and fences with penetrating stains and UV-resistant sealers, including cleaning and sanding for even absorption.

  • How long have you been in business?

    We've been locally trusted in North Andover and surrounding towns for 25 years with many repeat clients.

  • Do you provide pickup and delivery?

    Yes, we offer pickup and delivery options for furniture painting projects performed in our controlled setting. Call (781) 443-2121 for details.

  • Does my deck need to be fully stripped before staining, or can you apply a fresh coat over the old finish?

    The right approach depends on the condition of your existing finish. Peeling or flaking stain must be stripped and sanded so the new coat can bond properly, while a structurally sound, lightly faded finish may only need cleaning and a maintenance coat. LoConte assesses each deck before recommending a prep plan.

  • What makes deck and fence staining in North Andover different from a standard paint job?

    Staining penetrates the wood grain rather than sitting on top like paint, which means surface prep and wood condition have a much bigger impact on the final result. Proper cleaning, drying time, and choosing the right stain type for your specific wood all determine how long the finish holds up against New England weather.

  • How do you know when a deck needs staining versus a full refinish?

    A deck that shows light graying or fading but has no peeling or soft wood typically needs staining, not a full refinish. Once the existing finish begins to flake, crack, or lift in sheets, a complete strip-and-sand is usually necessary before any new product will adhere and last.

  • Does fence staining require the same prep work as deck staining?

    Fences and decks both need to be clean and dry before staining, but fences are often rough-sawn wood that absorbs stain differently than the smoother, foot-traffic surfaces on a deck. The prep steps are similar — cleaning, light sanding where needed, and checking for rot — but the product choice and application method may differ.