Painting Advice
& Ideas
Practical guidance. Real local projects. Find the ideas and answers that help you plan your home’s next chapter.
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Good decisions start with good information.
Get a clearer picture of the process, the budget and the possibilities for your home.
Plan your painting project with confidence
A Southeast Wisconsin homeowner’s guide to estimates, preparation and choosing the right service.
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What does exterior painting cost in Lake Country?
Explore Empire’s 2026 cost guide and the details that influence an exterior painting estimate.
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Refresh your kitchen with cabinet painting
Understand the preparation, finishing steps and options behind a professional cabinet refresh.
Read ArticleSee the details behind the difference.
Follow an exterior transformation in Pewaukee and explore the rich woodwork of a Whitefish Bay interior.
A detail-driven Pewaukee exterior refresh
Before-and-after views, multiple elevations and a closer look at siding, windows and architectural trim.
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Interior wood staining in Whitefish Bay
French doors, windows, built-ins and a staircase as this detailed staining project nears completion.
Read ArticleMore advice, ideas & project stories.
Browse by topic, from preparing a room to seeing how a local home was transformed.
Browse the article library below.
A navy-blue transformation in Waukesha County
See how navy siding and crisp white trim changed the character of this home.
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A closer look at Empire’s painting projects
Project videos covering interior, exterior and commercial work from the Empire team.
Read ArticleSpring 2026 exterior painting guide
A seasonal guide to evaluating winter wear, planning preparation and scheduling exterior work.
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A new website for Lake Country homeowners
The 2026 announcement introducing Empire’s updated services, project photos and online estimate path.
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7 signs your home needs a fresh coat of paint
Recognize fading, peeling and other signs that your home’s exterior needs attention.
Read ArticleWhat to expect from a reputable painting contractor
A practical look at communication, a written plan and the details behind a professional result.
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Refinishing cedar siding
Learn about cleaning, surface preparation and finish options for weathered cedar siding.
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The Smiley Barn returns
Revisit the 2018 exterior transformation that brought this Delafield landmark back to cheerful yellow.
Read Article7 questions to ask before choosing a painting contractor
Questions to help you compare experience, estimates and the team that will work on your home.
Read ArticleEmpire sponsors Elm Grove Village Market
From the archive: Empire’s support for the 2018 market’s live music and local community.
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A warmer exterior for a Hartland ranch
A project story covering cement board siding, cedar trim, surface prep and a coordinated color palette.
Read ArticleSupporting the Penfield Children’s Center mural
From the archive: paint donated by Empire helped local artists create a community mural in 2017.
Read ArticleRefreshing a Pabst Farms home
Follow the preparation and finishing work that renewed a contemporary colonial’s siding and trim.
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A cheery Sussex colonial
See the preparation, carpentry repairs and color update behind this exterior transformation.
Read ArticleChoosing the right paint sheen
Understand how flat, eggshell, satin and glossier finishes affect appearance and everyday use.
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5 steps to exterior home improvement
Questions about your home’s age, surfaces and maintenance to consider before exterior work.
Read ArticleAn Oconomowoc painting giveaway story
From the archive: meet the 2017 giveaway recipients and see the color chosen for their bathroom.
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Empire at the Realtors’ Home & Garden Show
From the archive: a look back at Empire’s 2018 show appearance. Event dates and offers are historical.
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Design spotlight: black + white finishing
Explore the contrast, natural wood and finishing details in a country-chic barn project.
Read ArticleHiring a painting pro: 4 benefits to consider
Compare professional preparation and project planning with common do-it-yourself challenges.
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Supporting a Walker’s Point mural
A community story about local artists and Empire’s support for a Radio Milwaukee mural.
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How to prepare for professional interior painting
A homeowner checklist for belongings, furniture and rooms before the painting crew arrives.
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Planning an interior refresh for winter
Consider the colder months for interior painting and plan your project ahead of time.
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Renew your Lake Country kitchen
Explore the benefits of keeping existing cabinetry and changing its finish.
Read ArticleHave a project in mind?
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