1. If I am interested in doing a project, how do I get started?
Simply call us at 703.459.4929 or email us at info@applesofgold.net to set up a free consultation. We will come by your house and view the space(s) you have in mind and listen to what your hopes are for the project. We will bring along a portfolio with numerous samples and ideas of work we have done. If you so desire, we are able to help with color choices and other important design decisions you may need to make.

2. How do you determine price?
A number of variables factor into how our pricing works, for example: our Venetian plaster and faux finishes include a range of options, each with a different starting price. This is because some finishes require multiple coats or layers. Some of the options include custom artwork that is put on top of a finish. Generally speaking, however, we do charge by the square foot. With respect to murals and other artwork we charge by the project. The common variables in murals and artwork are the amount of detail desired, size of the piece and materials needed.

3. What will I see before hand?
Once the estimate is agreed and a deposit is received, we usually do 2-3 sample boards per room and have a second meeting to make final decisions.

4. What are your terms and conditions?
We provide a 1 hour, in-home free consultant visit. An estimate is then prepared and sent to the client for review. The estimate includes 2-3 sample boards per room, all supplies and expenses. A signed contract and a 30% deposit are required prior to any sample boards or work started. The balance is due upon completion of the job. The estimate may be adjusted for unforeseen obstacles to perform work. If the client cancels after sample boards are completed, a $200.00 minimum cancellation fee applies. In most cases, the client should have the room base coated in an eggshell finish of the appropriate color as agreed upon with Apples of Gold, in preparation for our work. The client is responsible for all nail pops and other drywall damage repair needed prior to base coat application. The client is responsible to remove all window treatments, pictures, etc. from the walls as well as moving all furniture to allow work to be done. By signing the contract, the client also agrees to allow Apples of Gold to photograph the finished project for promotional purposes. Apples of Gold is licensed and insured. Make all checks payable to Apples of Gold.

5. How long does a project typically take?
Our experience and ability to work well together allows us to work very efficiently. Our most popular faux finishes can usually be completed in one day when applied to an average sized room. Kitchens can take longer as they require a lot of preparation and they also pose some challenging areas to work in. Large 2-story foyers or family rooms that require scaffolding usually take 2-3 days to complete. Specialty finishes usually take 1-4 days. Murals can range from one day to 2 weeks or more depending on the size and detail required.

6. Are your finishes permanent?
Most of our paint finishes can be painted over without any problem by applying a primer first. Murals may need a heavier sanding due to the multiple layers of color that are required with certain murals. In cases where we use canvas to paint the mural, the canvas can be removed and the wall or ceiling repainted. Venetian plaster can be primed and painted as well, but waxed plaster will need to be sanded first.

7. Will I have a chance to change my mind?
Certainly. Some charges may apply depending on how far along the project is when a change is requested.

8. How do I go about choosing the right painting studio?
When it comes to selecting the right painting studio there are some key questions that should be carefully considered. What do I want? Do I want help deciding on what I should do with this space? How important is it to me that I know who is actually doing the work? How reliable is the company? How quickly can they complete the work? Are they licensed and insured? How flexible are they? Are they easy to work with? At Apples of Gold you consult with the people who actually do the work in your home. We believe it is crucial that the client feels very comfortable and confident with us. We want the client to be assured that we understand exactly what they are looking for and for them to feel comfortable to ask questions and be involved each step of the way. We are able to provide professional advice and help in terms of interior design and the overall flow of the home making sure our finishes will enhance and compliment each area to the delightful satisfaction of the client. You will find at Apples of Gold that we have the ability to produce highly customized work which enables us to address the many unique needs of our clients.

9. Are you licensed and insured?
Yes, we are fully licensed and insured.