Before: With small amounts of privacy and inhibiting blinds that can be in the way at times. This bathroom needs a window makeover.
Bathroom - mid-century modern bathroom idea in Denver

Steward Oak – The Courtier Waterproof Collection combines the beauty of real hardwood with the durability and functionality of rigid flooring. This innovative type of flooring perfectly replicates both reclaimed and contemporary hardwood floors, while being completely waterproof, durable and easy to clean. Nancontrol® Anti-Microbial Defense works to inhibit the growth and reproduction of microorganisms & bacteria – For healthy, clean floors for you & your family.

xterior Metal Staircase & Iron Railing Refinishing – Chicago, IL Windy City Painters completed a comprehensive metal refinishing project featuring an exterior steel staircase, diamond mesh security screening, handrails, and surrounding perimeter railings on a Chicago multi-family property. The existing metalwork suffered from severe rust, flaking paint, and exposure to winter freeze-thaw cycles. Our team executed full mechanical rust removal, wire-brush prep, application of industrial rust-inhibiting Direct-To-Metal (DTM) primer, and finished with high-durability exterior oil-based alkyd enamel. Designed to provide long-lasting corrosion protection, enhance property security, and elevate curb appeal for Chicago homeowners, condo associations, and property managers.

An elastomeric roof restoration is a painted on product. As with any painting project, the key to a successful long lasting finish is the surface preparation. We pressure washed the roof, applied rust-inhibitive primer and liquid tape. We then applied two coats of Acrymax top coat for a durable and beautiful finish. Note: One of the previous coats was red which gives the impression that the rust was more widespread than it actually was.

AVAILABLE IN FOUR VIVID COLORS. The Pelican Crystallite Series PL-WS400 Granite Composite workstation sinks epitomize a harmonious fusion of sophisticated design and pragmatic functionality. Innovatively designed to revolutionize kitchen spaces, these sinks integrate all accessories seamlessly, which includes a bottom grid, cutting board, and drying rack, garnering widespread acclaim as a coveted addition for numerous households. Crafted with 85% natural quartz, the toughest component of granite, and combined with a premium acrylic binder for exceptional durability. Engineered to withstand UV exposure, scratches, stains, impacts, and heat, these sinks offer enduring performance in any kitchen setting. Featuring a built-in natural anti-bacterial hygiene protection system utilizing silver ions, they effectively inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi, ensuring a hygienic environment. Manufactured with precision in Germany from environmentally sustainable materials, these sinks prioritize longevity and eco-friendliness. The PL-WS400 sink is designed for versatile installation, suitable for both top mount and under mount configurations, offering flexibility to accommodate various kitchen layouts. Enhance functionality and aesthetics with optional color-matched strainers and bottom grids. With a limited lifetime warranty, the Crystallite Granite Composite Sinks provide lasting assurance and peace of mind for the original homeowner.

Kingsguard Oak – The Courtier Waterproof Collection combines the beauty of real hardwood with the durability and functionality of rigid flooring. This innovative type of flooring perfectly replicates both reclaimed and contemporary hardwood floors, while being completely waterproof, durable and easy to clean. Nancontrol® Anti-Microbial Defense works to inhibit the growth and reproduction of microorganisms & bacteria – For healthy, clean floors for you & your family.

An elastomeric roof restoration is a painted on product. As with any painting project, the key to a successful long lasting finish is the surface preparation. We pressure washed the roof, applied rust-inhibitive primer and liquid tape. We then applied two coats of Acrymax top coat for a durable and beautiful finish. Note: One of the previous coats was red which gives the impression that the rust was more widespread than it actually was.

AVAILABLE IN SEVEN VIVID COLORS The Pelican Crystallite Series PL-100 Granite Composite single bowl sink is expertly crafted with 85% natural quartz, the toughest component of granite, blended with a premium acrylic binder to create a stunning sink boasting unparalleled durability. Engineered in Germany, these sinks epitomize quality and environmental responsibility, constructed from long-lasting, eco-friendly materials. UV Stable and resistant to scratches, stains, impacts, and heat, these sinks offer exceptional performance and longevity. Each sink features a natural anti-bacterial hygiene protection system, harnessing silver ions to inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi, ensuring a hygienic kitchen environment. The versatile PL-100 sink is designed for both top mount and under mount installations, offering flexibility to suit various kitchen configurations. Additionally, color-matched strainers and bottom grids are available for enhanced functionality and aesthetics. Backed by a limited lifetime warranty, the Crystallite Granite Composite Sinks provide enduring quality and peace of mind for the lifetime of the original homeowner.

Rohan Oak – The Courtier Waterproof Collection combines the beauty of real hardwood with the durability and functionality of rigid flooring. This innovative type of flooring perfectly replicates both reclaimed and contemporary hardwood floors, while being completely waterproof, durable and easy to clean. Nancontrol® Anti-Microbial Defense works to inhibit the growth and reproduction of microorganisms & bacteria – For healthy, clean floors for you & your family.

Steward Oak – The Courtier Waterproof Collection combines the beauty of real hardwood with the durability and functionality of rigid flooring. This innovative type of flooring perfectly replicates both reclaimed and contemporary hardwood floors, while being completely waterproof, durable and easy to clean. Nancontrol® Anti-Microbial Defense works to inhibit the growth and reproduction of microorganisms & bacteria – For healthy, clean floors for you & your family.

Steward Oak – The Courtier Waterproof Collection combines the beauty of real hardwood with the durability and functionality of rigid flooring. This innovative type of flooring perfectly replicates both reclaimed and contemporary hardwood floors, while being completely waterproof, durable and easy to clean. Nancontrol® Anti-Microbial Defense works to inhibit the growth and reproduction of microorganisms & bacteria – For healthy, clean floors for you & your family.

This beautiful home has been part of the Minneapolis Lakes neighborhood for over 125 years. But now it was time for an update. This remodeling project involved an area on the first floor that included a hallway, kitchen, bath, and lots of walls. This claustrophobic design inhibited traffic flow and made entertaining a challenge

The Sixth Sense Dinnerware collection seduces foodies and connoisseurs alike. Artisanal sculptured porcelain is crafted to inhibit condensation.
Example of a minimalist patio design in Other

The client had partially remodeled the home a few years prior but said the kitchen did not have the right feel. In addition, its functionality was stunted by the layout. The two large ovens were shoved in a corner and inhibited the use of the nearby drawer space. Colors of the kitchen all blended together in a wash of cream. The countertops were marble and showing wear. Ultimately the client wanted a more functional kitchen, updated appearance, easy to use and something they would feel reflected the warmth of their family. Visually the new kitchen is stunning. It combines an old world feel with some modern twists. The custom stone hood and large stoves became a focal point in the kitchen. The antiqued red island softens the look of the stoves, compliments the moss tones of the ceiling beams and creates a warm touch in the heart of the kitchen. Perimeter counters are made of leathered Taj-Mahal granite, and the island is polished Typhoon Bordeaux granite. Above the island are hand blown glass pendants that give a little shimmer and sparkle to the old world feel. The Arabesque style handmade ceramic backsplash pulls together the tones from the cabinets, countertops and ceiling. As part of our environmentally conscious building, we used KCMA (Kitchen Cabinet Manufactures Association) Environmental Stewardship Program certified cabinets and replaced all of the lighting with energy efficient lighting. Outcome is warm, highly functional and inviting space for family and friends to gather.

This beautiful home has been part of the Minneapolis Lakes neighborhood for over 125 years. But now it was time for an update. This remodeling project involved an area on the first floor that included a hallway, kitchen, bath, and lots of walls. This claustrophobic design inhibited traffic flow and made entertaining a challenge.

ver look at your iron fence and wonder how rust crept up so fast? For homeowners across Chicago's North Side and Near West Side, that moment of recognition often comes too late. Windy City Painters built this project guide to help you understand exactly what a professional iron fence restoration involves, what products matter, and what Chicago's climate demands from every coat of paint applied to exposed metal. PROJECT OVERVIEW This iron fence restoration involved a multi-unit property featuring an ornamental iron perimeter fence typical of Chicago's greystone and courtyard building streetscape. The fence presented moderate-to-severe surface rust, multiple areas of paint delamination, and two sections with deep pitting requiring needle gun descaling before any coating could be applied. The goal was full rust remediation and a durable topcoat finish built for Chicago's demanding climate. Windy City Painters completed the project in two days with zero damage to surrounding hardscape. MATERIALS AND PRODUCTS Ospho Rust Converter - A phosphoric acid-based treatment that chemically transforms iron oxide into iron phosphate, halting active corrosion before primer is applied. Essential on Chicago iron exposed to decades of salt air and freeze-thaw cycling. Corroseal Rust-Inhibitive Primer - A water-based latex primer with built-in rust inhibitors, applied over converted surfaces to seal and prepare metal for topcoating. Sherwin-Williams DTM Acrylic Coating - Direct-to-Metal formulation delivering exceptional adhesion, flexibility, and corrosion resistance. Available in satin and semi-gloss, ideal for ornamental iron fence painting across Chicago properties. THE PROCESS Step 1 - Mechanical Surface Preparation: Wire wheel grinding with angle grinder attachments removed all loose rust scale, failing paint, and surface contamination. Heavily pitted sections received needle gun descaling to expose clean stable metal beneath. This step determines everything. No primer or topcoat performs correctly over compromised metal, regardless of product quality. Windy City Painters treats prep as the primary investment on every iron fence project. Step 2 - Rust Conversion: Ospho was applied liberally to all areas showing active rust. The phosphoric acid reaction was allowed to complete fully before any priming began. On severely oxidized sections, a second Ospho application ensured complete conversion. This step is non-negotiable in Chicago where freeze-thaw cycles push moisture into every surface irregularity. Step 3 - Priming with Corroseal: Full coverage Corroseal primer coat sealed the converted surface and established adhesion for the finish coats. Corroseal's rust-inhibitive chemistry adds a secondary barrier against moisture penetration, extending the effective life of the topcoat by years in Chicago's humid lakefront environment. Step 4 - DTM Topcoat Application: Two coats of Sherwin-Williams DTM acrylic in satin black were applied by brush to ensure full penetration into ornamental detail. DTM's flexibility accommodates the metal expansion and contraction Chicago temperatures demand, from minus-15 winters to 95-degree July afternoons. Final coverage was uniform and true to color. CHICAGO-SPECIFIC CHALLENGES Chicago iron faces challenges most other markets do not. Lake Michigan humidity accelerates surface oxidation year-round. Road salt from winter de-icing migrates to fence bases and lower rails. Freeze-thaw cycling cracks poorly adhered coatings within a single winter. Greystones, two-flats, and Victorian brownstones often feature original ornamental ironwork with decades of layered paint that must be assessed before any new coating is added. Windy City Painters factors all of these conditions into every iron fence estimate and material selection. WHAT TO EXPECT LONG-TERM A properly prepared and coated iron fence using the Ospho, Corroseal, and Sherwin-Williams DTM system should deliver 5-8 years of performance in Chicago conditions. Annual visual inspection for chips or scratches, followed by prompt spot priming, extends that timeline significantly. Full refinishing cycles become less frequent when the initial prep work is done correctly. PRO TIPS Tip 1 - Never skip the rust converter. Painting over active rust with even the best topcoat guarantees early failure. Ospho or a comparable phosphoric acid treatment must precede any primer on iron showing orange or brown oxidation. Tip 2 - Assess for weld repairs before scheduling painting. If rust has eaten through the metal creating structural voids or broken sections, a welder must address those areas before painting begins. Windy City Painters identifies weld repair needs during the free estimate. Tip 3 - Choose satin or semi-gloss finish on iron. Flat finishes on metal hold moisture and show wear faster. Satin DTM provides enough sheen to shed water while maintaining the traditional look Chicago ornamental iron demands. Ready to restore your iron fence the right way? Visit windypainters.com to schedule your free estimate with Windy City Painters. FAQ Q: What does iron fence painting cost in Chicago? A: Most residential iron fence projects range from $500 to $1,800 depending on linear footage, rust severity, and prep requirements. Windy City Painters provides free detailed on-site estimates for accurate iron fence painting cost in Chicago. Q: How do I know if my fence needs rust conversion or just repainting? A: Any visible orange or brown rust requires chemical conversion before priming. Windy City Painters evaluates every fence during the estimate to determine whether Ospho, mechanical prep, or weld repair is needed before coating begins. Q: Can you paint iron in cold Chicago weather? A: DTM coatings have lower application temperature thresholds than standard exterior paint, but we avoid application below 35 degrees Fahrenheit. Windy City Painters schedules iron fence projects for appropriate weather windows throughout the season. Q: How long does iron fence paint last in Chicago? A: With complete rust conversion, Corroseal priming, and Sherwin-Williams DTM topcoat, iron fence painting in Chicago lasts 5-8 years. Annual inspections and prompt touch-ups of chips extend that timeline further. Q: Do I need a welder before an iron fence can be painted? A: Only if rust has created structural voids or breaks in the metal. Windy City Painters assesses this during the free estimate and can coordinate with welders when needed before our painting crew begins. Q: What is the difference between Ospho and Corroseal? A: Ospho is a rust converter applied directly to active rust to chemically neutralize it. Corroseal is a rust-inhibitive primer applied over converted or clean metal. Windy City Painters often uses both in sequence for maximum protection on Chicago iron. Q: How often should Chicago iron fences be inspected? A: Annual inspection is recommended, ideally in early spring after winter salt and freeze-thaw exposure. Catching small chips and bare spots early allows simple touch-up rather than full iron fence repainting, saving significant cost.

Iron Fence Painting in Wicker Park: A Windy City Painters Case Study Iron fence painting in Wicker Park is one of the most requested exterior services Windy City Painters performs each season, and this recent project shows exactly why. Set behind an ornate 1890s greystone two-flat, the client's wrought iron fence had endured years of Chicago winters without professional attention. Rust had spread across the pickets, the original black enamel was flaking away in sheets, and the fence's structural hardware had begun to loosen at several joints. As the trusted local expert for Chicago's North Side and Near West Side, Windy City Painters approached this project the same way we approach every iron fence painting job in Wicker Park: with a methodical, multi-step process designed to outlast Midwest weather rather than simply mask the damage. The Process, Step by Step Step 1 — Rust Removal and Surface Preparation. Our crew wire-brushed and mechanically ground every rusted section down to clean, stable metal. For pitted or heavily corroded areas, we applied a chemical rust converter to neutralize corrosion at the molecular level before any coating touched the surface. Furthermore, because this greystone was built well before 1978, Windy City Painters tested the existing paint layers for lead and followed strict containment protocols throughout the removal process. Step 2 — Spot Repairs. Loose pickets were re-secured, small pits were filled, and hardware at the gate hinges was tightened. In contrast to a quick spray-paint refresh, this stage ensures the fence is structurally sound before a single drop of primer goes on. Step 3 — Priming. A full coat of rust-inhibiting primer, engineered specifically for ferrous metal, was applied by brush to every surface — with particular attention to welds and joints where moisture tends to collect and restart the corrosion cycle. Step 4 — Topcoat Application. Two finish coats of industrial-grade, direct-to-metal enamel were applied by brush and roller. This built a durable, uniform barrier in classic gloss black, the most popular finish among Wicker Park's historic properties. Finally, our team inspected every inch of the fence for thin spots or missed sections before calling the job complete. Project Specs Surface: Ornamental wrought iron fence, posts, and gate hardware Products used: Rust-inhibiting DTM primer, chemical rust converter, industrial-grade direct-to-metal enamel Coats applied: 1 primer coat, 2 finish coats Finish: Gloss black Timeline: Completed in under two days Advice for Wicker Park Homeowners Before starting a similar iron fence painting project in Wicker Park, homeowners should keep a few things in mind. Notably, never paint directly over active rust — trapped moisture underneath will cause the new coat to fail within a season. Additionally, always ask whether a contractor tests for lead paint on pre-1978 homes, since many Wicker Park greystones fall into that category. Meanwhile, hand brushwork matters: the intricate scrollwork common on Wicker Park ironwork requires careful, detailed application that spray equipment simply cannot replicate. Therefore, hiring a crew experienced specifically in historic Chicago ironwork, like Windy City Painters, makes a measurable difference in the finished result. Windy City Painters also handles related exterior and interior work for Wicker Park properties, including interior painting, drywall and plaster repair, and additional metal refinishing for porches and railings. Iron fence painting in Wicker Park protects one of the neighborhood's most defining architectural features while restoring curb appeal instantly. As a result, this greystone now has a fence that matches the quality of the home behind it — and will hold up through many more Chicago winters. See more of our work and request a free estimate at www.windypainters.com. Ready to transform your Wicker Park home? Contact Windy City Painters for a free estimate — visit www.windypainters.com today. Proudly serving Wicker Park, West Town, Lincoln Park, Roscoe Village, Lakeview, Ukrainian Village, River North, and all of Chicago.

Metal Porch Stairs Painting in Lakeview, Chicago | Windy City Painters Lakeview is one of Chicago's most architecturally diverse neighborhoods — vintage courtyard buildings, rooftop-deck condos, newly converted three-flats, and classic brick two-flats all line the same block. What they share is this: exposed metal. Back porch stairs, handrails, balconies, and exterior landings define the rear streetscape of nearly every building in the neighborhood. And in Chicago, exposed metal without proper protective coatings doesn't last. Windy City Painters recently completed a full metal porch stairs painting project in Lakeview that illustrates exactly what professional metal refinishing looks like — and why preparation is everything. The Problem: Years of Chicago Weather Had Done Their Damage The client's back porch stairs were structurally sound — the diamond-plate steel treads were solid underfoot and the handrails were stable. However, the original paint system had long since failed. Surface rust had spread across the treads and risers. The old coating was peeling at every seam, edge, and weld point. Meanwhile, the black handrails were chalky and beginning to show rust at the bases. Notably, this is a pattern Windy City Painters sees constantly in Lakeview. The neighborhood's diverse housing stock — ranging from pre-war courtyard buildings to 1990s condo conversions — often features original metal porch work that has never received a proper professional refinish. Homeowners and property managers patch-paint over rust for years, which ultimately accelerates the problem rather than solving it. The solution isn't more paint. It's a complete system: mechanical rust removal, chemical treatment, primer, and a durable topcoat engineered for exterior metal. The Windy City Painters Process for Metal Porch Stairs Painting Windy City Painters approaches every metal porch stairs painting project with the same disciplined sequence. Consequently, our finishes outlast the competition by years. Step 1 — Mechanical Preparation Our crew wire-brushes all loose rust, flaking paint, and surface contamination from every tread, riser, stringer, and handrail section. For heavier rust accumulation, we use grinding discs to cut down to clean, bare metal. This step is non-negotiable. Additionally, we pay particular attention to weld seams, bolt plates, and edge returns — the spots where moisture consistently hides and rust reliably starts. Step 2 — Chemical Rust Treatment After mechanical prep, we apply a rust-converting primer to any remaining rust residue. This chemically neutralizes active rust and converts it into a stable, paintable surface. Moreover, the converter bonds to the metal and creates an additional barrier against future oxidation. Step 3 — Rust-Inhibiting Primer Windy City Painters then applies a full coat of oil-based, rust-inhibiting primer to all prepared metal surfaces. This primer penetrates bare metal and creates the critical bond layer that everything else depends on. Skipping this step — or substituting a latex primer — is the single biggest reason DIY metal paint jobs fail within one season. Step 4 — Two Topcoats of Industrial Enamel We apply two full coats of oil-based industrial enamel in the client's chosen color. For this Lakeview project, the stairs received a deep red finish and the handrails received gloss black — a classic combination that reads beautifully against the surrounding brick. Each coat is allowed to cure fully before the next is applied. Furthermore, we back-roll every surface to eliminate lap marks and ensure consistent film build. Step 5 — Final Inspection and Cleanup Windy City Painters inspects every inch of the completed work before calling a project done. We remove all masking, clean up the work area completely, and walk the client through the finished result. In addition, we advise on a maintenance schedule to maximize the life of the coating system. Why Metal Porch Stairs Painting Matters for Lakeview Properties Metal porch stairs are among the most visible exterior features of Chicago residential buildings. Therefore, their condition directly affects curb appeal, property value, and — most importantly — structural safety. Rust that penetrates deeply enough will compromise the structural integrity of stairs and railings. Meanwhile, peeling paint signals to buyers, renters, and neighbors that a property is deferred. In contrast, freshly refinished metal porch stairs signal exactly the opposite. They say the property is maintained, the owner takes pride in the building, and the structure is safe. For Lakeview landlords and homeowners alike, metal porch stair refinishing delivers an exceptional return on investment. Professional Advice for Lakeview Homeowners Before starting a metal porch stairs painting project, Windy City Painters recommends the following: Don't paint over rust. Any rust left beneath a topcoat will continue to spread and will lift the new paint within months. Mechanical removal is essential. Choose oil-based products for exterior metal. Latex paints don't adhere to metal as reliably and lack the film hardness needed to withstand foot traffic and freeze-thaw cycles. Time your project right. Ideal conditions for metal painting are 50°F–90°F with low humidity. Chicago's spring and early fall are perfect windows. Don't skip the primer. A properly applied rust-inhibiting primer is what separates a seven-year finish from a one-year failure. Budget for full prep. Preparation typically represents 60–70% of the labor on a metal refinishing project. That's where the money is well spent. Windy City Painters: Lakeview's Trusted Metal Refinishing Contractor Windy City Painters has refined the process of exterior metal painting and refinishing across Chicago's North Side and Near West Side. We work in Lakeview regularly — on courtyard buildings, two-flats, coach houses, and commercial properties — and we understand the unique demands that Chicago's climate places on exterior metal. As a result, our coating systems are selected and applied for maximum longevity in this specific environment. See more of our work and request a free estimate at www.windypainters.com. Ready to transform your Lakeview home? Contact Windy City Painters for a free estimate — visit www.windypainters.com today. Proudly serving Wicker Park, West Town, Lincoln Park, Roscoe Village, Lakeview, Ukrainian Village, River North, and all of Chicago.

The context of this home is set atop a hillside, making for a tricky entry sequence. The driveway meanders up and around the house to the rear of the property. Though this is the back of the property, it is indeed the main entry as well. Given that the other side of the home sits 15' above ground elevation, our client's desire was to design a space off the backside of the home that doesn't inhibit the entry for new visitors, but allows for a seamless outdoor living space off their kitchen/ living room. We achieved this balance by retaining a front walkway to the main entry using large 24" x 36" bluestone slabs in a running band through the new patio space. Visually the clean lines of this walkway lead visitors to the front entrance while also subtly defining the two seating areas of the new patio terrace. The reclaimed granite piers, Saratoga Granite Seating walls, and plantings provide further definition which truly enhance the sense of space! Needless to say, our clients were thrilled with the finished product!