Frequently Asked Questions

Every project is different — size, condition, number of colors, surface prep needed, and materials all affect the price. We don't do ballpark quotes over the phone because they end up being wrong and that wastes everyone's time. Call us or fill out our estimate form and we'll come take a look. Estimates are always free.

Yes, completely free. We'll schedule a time to walk the project, take measurements, and get you a written estimate with no obligation.

Our estimates are valid for 30 days. Material costs can fluctuate, so if you're coming back to us months later on an older quote, just give us a call and we'll confirm current pricing.

For larger projects we typically ask for a deposit to cover materials before we start. This is outlined in your project agreement before any work begins. Smaller jobs may not require a deposit — we'll let you know upfront.

We accept cash, check, and electronic payment. Final payment is due upon project completion. We'll walk through the finished work with you before asking for payment.

It depends on the time of year. Spring and summer are our busiest seasons. Call or message us to check current availability — we can often give you a rough timeline within 24 hours.

We work Monday through Saturday, 7am to 6pm. We'll set a project start time with you during scheduling and communicate clearly if anything changes.

Not necessarily. Many clients give us access and go about their day. We'll communicate progress and any questions by phone or text. You do need to be available for the final walkthrough at completion.

Exterior work requires specific temperature and humidity conditions for paint to cure properly. If weather pushes your project, we'll communicate proactively and get you rescheduled as quickly as possible. Interior work is unaffected by weather.

Prep is where the job is won or lost. We clean surfaces, sand, fill holes and cracks, caulk gaps, prime bare spots, and protect floors, trim, and furniture before a drop of finish paint goes on. Rushed prep is why other paint jobs look bad in two years. We don't rush prep.

We use professional-grade paints — Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore are our go-tos depending on the application. We're happy to use a specific product if you have a preference. We don't cut corners with builder-grade paint.

Typically two finish coats after primer as needed. Some surfaces — particularly dark-to-light color changes or raw wood — may need additional coats. We include what's necessary to do the job right, not what's easiest.

Always. We remove all tape, drop cloths, and materials. Furniture goes back. Floors are clean. You shouldn't be able to tell we were there except for the fresh paint.

Most interior latex paints are dry to the touch in 1–2 hours and can be recoated in 4 hours. Full cure takes 2–4 weeks. We'll let you know any specific care instructions for your project before we leave.

We're based in Dubuque and serve the surrounding area including Dyersville, Peosta, Asbury, Galena IL, Platteville WI, and the broader Tri-State region. Not sure if you're in range? Call us — we're flexible.

Yes. Cabinet painting is one of the best-value upgrades you can do in a kitchen or bathroom. We spray-apply a durable finish for a factory-smooth look. It's a completely different process than wall painting and we treat it that way.

Yes. We work with businesses, property managers, and contractors on commercial interiors and exteriors. We can work around business hours and coordinate with general contractors on new construction projects.

Yes. Fuehrer Painting LLC is a licensed business in Iowa and carries general liability insurance. We can provide proof of insurance before any job begins. You should never hire a painter who can't show you this.