Post-Holiday Refresh: How a Fresh Coat of Paint Can Revitalize Your Home

February 18, 2026
Kitchen cabinet painting vs. replacement in Knoxville, TN. Learn which option makes sense for your home, budget, and timeline — and how to get the most value from your kitchen upgrade.
January 17, 2026
Thinking about interior painting in Knoxville? Winter offers better availability, faster scheduling, and a chance to beat the spring painting rush.
By Charles McLain December 24, 2025
What insurance should your painter carry? Learn what coverage matters, why it protects you, and what to ask before hiring a painting contractor.
By Charles McLain November 21, 2025
Wondering what kind of carpentry McLain’s Painting offers? This guide breaks down the specific repairs and improvements we handle, and how it all ties into a better paint job.
By Charles McLain October 30, 2025
Wondering how much cabinet painting costs in Knoxville? Get real pricing insights, what affects cost, and how to avoid surprise fees on your next kitchen upgrade.
By Charles McLain September 22, 2025
Fall is the perfect season for home updates in Knoxville. Explore 5 smart improvement projects to boost curb appeal and prep your home for the holidays.
By Charles McLain August 29, 2025
See how McLain’s Painting gives back through “Painting with a Purpose,” donating $10K in services to Knoxville nonprofits like Childhelp Tennessee.
By Charles McLain July 23, 2025
Summer’s warm, dry weather makes it the best time to repaint your Knoxville home: faster dry times, better results, and serious curb appeal.
By Charles McLain June 23, 2025
Are you wondering if you should paint or stain your deck in Knoxville? Here's a quick breakdown of the pros and cons of each, plus our take.
By Charles McLain May 20, 2025
Get your Knoxville home summer-ready with expert exterior painting tips—from prep work and weather timing to picking the right products and pros.
Discover the benefits of deck building and repair in Knoxville—from added value to outdoor comfort.
By Charles McLain April 25, 2025
In a place like Knoxville, where the weather practically begs you to be outside for most of the year, your backyard should be more than a patch of grass—it should be part of your home. And nothing brings that idea to life quite like a well-built, well-loved deck . Whether you’re dreaming of a brand-new hangout zone or need to fix up the deck that’s been “on the to-do list” for the last three summers, exterior carpentry projects like decks and porches offer big value—not just for your property, but for your lifestyle. Knoxville Is Built for Outdoor Living Let’s be real: if you’re going to live in East Tennessee, you better have a place to enjoy all that fresh air. With long summers, mild falls, and springtime that shows off big, a solid deck gives you a front-row seat to the best parts of the year. It’s also where we grill, chill, wrangle kids, host birthdays, and maybe sneak a quiet cup of coffee before the chaos starts. In other words, a good deck isn't a luxury—it’s a lifestyle essential. Building a New Deck: More Than Just Curb Appeal Thinking about adding a deck? Here’s what you stand to gain: Instant extra space – It’s like adding a room… without knocking down any walls. Better entertaining – Built-in seating, lighting, and space for a grill or fire pit make your house the hangout spot. Higher resale value – Buyers love a functional outdoor setup, especially in Knoxville’s climate. Customization – Want a covered section? Multi-level zones? Built-in planters? You got options. Plus, it’s the perfect excuse to finally get that smoker you’ve been eyeing. (For "family dinners," of course.)
March 31, 2025
Discover the top exterior paint color trends for 2025 and how to choose hues that boost curb appeal while complementing Knoxville’s charm and climate.
By Charles McLain February 28, 2025
Give your kitchen a fresh new look with professional cabinet painting! Save money, reduce waste, and get a flawless, long-lasting finish in just a few days.
By Charles McLain January 15, 2025
Refresh your Knoxville home after the holidays with a new paint job. Explore color ideas, high-traffic tips, and more for a bright start to the year!
2025 interior paint color trends
By Charles McLain December 29, 2024
What's popular for interior paint colors right now? Here's a quick overview of the biggest trends of 2025...
painting vs. replacing kitchen cabinets
By Charles McLain November 20, 2024
Should you paint or replace your cabinets? Good question? Here's a look at the pros and cons of each to help you decide...
fall exterior painting Knoxville
By Charles McLain October 31, 2024
You didn't miss your chance! Here's why fall can actually be the perfect time for exterior painting in Knoxville, TN.
By Charles McLain August 28, 2024
Wondering if installing wallpaper is the right move for your home in Knoxville? We've got you covered with these top FAQs!
By Charles McLain July 31, 2024
Interested in learning how (and when!) to refinish your Ipe deck in Knoxville? Start here!
Wondering how to compare painting estimates? Here are a few inside tips and insights to help...
By Charles McLain June 29, 2024
When planning a painting project, one of the most important (but often undesirable) steps is obtaining and comparing estimates from different contractors. For many homeowners in the Knoxville area, trying to find a good estimate is like trying to find a good parking spot downtown–frustrating. But does it have to be? Not if you know what to look for! In this article, we'll provide you with essential tips and insights on how to compare painting estimates effectively, so that you can get the best value for your investment without compromising on quality. Understanding What a Painting Estimate Includes A comprehensive painting estimate should detail several key components. These typically include: Labor Costs: The cost of labor can vary significantly based on the painter’s experience, the complexity of the job, and the estimated time required. Material Costs: This covers the cost of paint, primer, brushes, rollers, and other supplies. High-quality materials usually cost more but can offer better durability and finish. Preparation Work: Prepping the surfaces (sanding, cleaning, priming) is crucial for a long-lasting paint job. Ensure this is clearly outlined in the estimate. Additional Costs: These might include equipment rental (scaffolding, pressure washers), travel expenses, or special finishes. Understanding these components helps in making accurate comparisons between estimates, ensuring you're not left with unexpected costs. It also helps you narrow down companies that will give you the biggest bang for your buck. One company may be the same or even a bit higher than another, but the quality of preparation and thorough workmanship may make it a better deal.