What warranty or guarantee should I expect from a professional painter in NB?

A reputable professional painter in New Brunswick should offer a written workmanship warranty of one to two years, covering defects in application such as peeling, bubbling, or significant fading that result from errors in prep or technique — but it is important to understand what a warranty does and does not cover.

The industry standard for painting workmanship in Canada is generally a one-year warranty on labour, though quality-focused contractors often extend this to two years as a sign of confidence in their work. This warranty covers problems that stem from how the paint was applied: poor adhesion because a surface was not properly primed, peeling because paint was applied over moisture or a glossy surface that was not deglossed, runs or sags that were not addressed before the job was signed off. These are failures of technique and preparation, and they are the painter's responsibility.

What a workmanship warranty does NOT cover:

Paint failure caused by problems outside the painter's control — moisture infiltration from a roof leak, structural movement that causes cracks to reopen, or normal wear and tear — is not a workmanship defect. If your exterior paint peels two years after application because ice dams are forcing water behind your siding, that is a moisture problem, not a painting failure. This distinction matters in NB, where our climate creates many sources of moisture that can impact paint longevity independent of application quality.

Paint manufacturer warranties (typically 10-15 years on premium products like Benjamin Moore Regal or Sherwin-Williams Duration) cover defects in the paint product itself, not application. These warranties also typically require proof of proper surface preparation and application within specified temperature and humidity ranges — which is another reason why hiring a professional who follows correct procedures matters.

What to look for in a warranty:

The warranty should be in writing, included in your contract. It should specify the duration, what it covers, and the process for claiming — usually a phone call to the contractor to assess the defect, and repair at no cost if it falls within the warranty scope. Be wary of verbal-only warranties. Also confirm that the contractor will still be in business to honour the warranty — ask how long they have been operating in NB and whether they have a business address.

Practical note for NB homes: Given the age of housing stock in many NB cities and the climate's impact on exterior surfaces, be realistic about exterior paint longevity. Even a perfect exterior paint job in NB will typically last 8-12 years on a well-prepared surface, shorter in harsh coastal exposures near Saint John or the Bay of Fundy. A warranty of one to two years is appropriate coverage for a professionally applied exterior paint job — anyone promising a ten-year labour warranty on exterior work should be questioned carefully about what that actually means in practice.

---

Find a Painting Contractor

New Brunswick Painting helps you find local painting professionals through the New Brunswick Construction Network:

• Expressions Painting ✓
• Loves Painting Ltd. ✓
• Worry No More Handyman Service ✓
• Worry No More Handyman Services ✓