Title: 15 Fun Facts from a McHenry County Painter (You Won’t Find These at Sherwin-Williams)

After 20+ years of paint under my nails, ladders in my truck, and more shades of white than I ever cared to learn, I’ve got some stories. Painting houses around McHenry County (from Woodstock to Ringwood) has taught me a lot more than how to cut in a straight line. Here are 15 fun (and sometimes absurd) facts from the life of a professional painter who’s seen it all, sprayed it all, and somehow still loves the job.

1. White paint isn’t just white
There are over 150 shades of "white". Yes, clients have argued over the difference between "Alabaster" and "Swiss Coffee." Spoiler: one has slightly more regret.

2. Paint dries slower in humidity
McHenry summers are humid enough to slow-cook a brisket. That same humidity? Keeps paint tacky for days.

3. Dark colors need more coats
You think black paint is powerful? Try giving it three coats before it stops looking like a bad tattoo.

4. Rollers aren’t magic
Sure, they’re fast—until you try to roll trim or around outlets. Then they’re just a glorified sponge.

5. I’ve painted in 20°F weather
Exterior painting in December? Done it. Paint shivers too.

6. Gloss shows everything
Want every drywall mistake from 1986 to shine like a disco ball? Use high-gloss.

7. Cabinets will humble you
They look small but demand more prep than most full rooms. Every detail matters.

8. Prep is king
Caulking, sanding, and taping take longer than painting. But skip it, and the job looks like crap.

9. All paints smell different
Oil-based = instant headache. Low-VOC = manageable. Primer? Smells like the ghosts of jobs past.

10. Clean cut-ins > accent walls
You don’t need a TikTok trend. Just sharp, clean lines. Makes a world of difference.

11. Brushes aren’t cheap
The good ones cost $30+. Worth every penny. You wouldn’t cut your steak with a butter knife.

12. Paint names are ridiculous
"Dead Salmon" and "Elephant's Breath" are real paint colors. Why? I don't know either.

13. I’ve been high on ladders, not fumes
Although one time in Johnsburg the oil primer said otherwise.

14. Kids + Fresh Paint = Disaster
Seen it all. Sticky hands. Crayon art. Dog tail to the wall. It’s always the day after we finish.

15. Transformations never get old
Seeing a faded exterior in Woodstock come back to life? That moment hits every time.

Want Your Own Paint Story?
Whether you’re in Spring Grove, Huntley, or McHenry proper, Harvey’s Pro Painting has your walls covered (literally and professionally). Ready for your own before-and-after moment? Let’s make it happen.

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This post was brought to you by Harvey, your friendly neighborhood painter with a sense of humor and a brush that doesn't miss.