Your questions answered.
About College Works
What is College Works?
College Works is a residential painting company that operates through an award-winning student internship, called the Student Professional Program. We hire and train undergraduate students to run their own painting businesses, facilitating invaluable real-world experience in entrepreneurship, management, and customer service.
How does the Student Professional Program work?
The internship provides comprehensive training and support to college students, teaching them everything from painting techniques and safety protocols to marketing, sales, hiring, and customer relationship management. Each student manages their own painting crew and is responsible for the success of their business with the oversight of a full-time district manager.
Students spend their Spring semester estimating and selling, and spend their summer managing their project production calendar and crews.
Is College Works a legitimate company?
Founded in 1993 we are a fully licensed and insured company. We operate in 12 states, hire more than 2,000 students annually, paint thousands of homes each year, and proudly maintain an “A” rating with the Better Business Bureau.
Is College Works a non-profit organization?
No, College Works is a mission-driven, for-profit company. Our purpose is to transform the next generation of leaders by equipping them with the skills to think critically, the tools to lead effectively, and the opportunity to build a successful future. Our method is providing college students with an early experience of entrepreneurship by launching and running their own residential painting business.
What are the benefits of hiring College Works?
When you hire College Works, you receive a high-quality paint job delivered by professional and well-trained workers. In doing so, you directly support the development of young entrepreneurs and community leaders, contributing to their long-term success.
What is College Works' phone number?
College Works’ corporate office phone number (Irvine, CA) is (888) 450-9675.
Painting and service
What kind of painting services do you offer?
We offer a full range of exterior residential painting services, including house painting, trim painting, deck staining, and fence painting. We refresh your home’s curb appeal with a new coat of paint and expert attention to detail.
Do you paint interiors?
We offer interior work, wood replacement, vinyl siding, and other services in certain states. Check with your student manager to learn what is available in your area.
What paint brands do you use?
College Works uses only 100% acrylic paints from top manufacturers such as Kelly-Moore, Glidden, ICI, Sherwin Willams and Parker Paints. Your student manager can discuss specific paint options and the best product for your home.
Are your painters experienced?
Our student managers and their crew members receive thorough training in painting techniques, safety procedures, and customer service.
While some members of your service team may be in college, they provide professional-quality work under the guidance and support of an experienced College Works management team.
What about insurance and liability?
College Works is fully licensed and insured. This protects you in the unlikely event of an accident or damage.
What is the typical timeline for a painting project?
The timeline varies depending on the size and complexity of the job. Your student manager will provide you with a projected schedule during the estimating process.
Pricing and bids
How do I get a free estimate?
Simply complete our online estimate request form. A student manager in your area will contact you to schedule a convenient time to assess your project and provide you with a detailed, no-obligation estimate. You can also call us directly at (888) 450-9675.
What is included in the estimate?
Our estimates include the cost of labor, paint, materials, and any necessary surface preparation. Your student manager will walk you through the estimate and answer any questions you may have.
How is the pricing determined?
Pricing is based on the size of your home, the scope of the project, the type of paint you choose, and the amount of surface preparation required. We strive to provide competitive pricing while ensuring fair compensation for our painters.
Why did a similar home to mine in my neighborhood receive a different bid from College Works?
While two homes might look similar, a closer inspection often reveals differences that impact the cost of painting. Variables that our bids account for include:
Size and complexity: Even if two homes appear similar in size from the street, differences in square footage, number of stories, roof pitch, and architectural details (e.g., intricate trim, dormers) can significantly impact the amount of labor and materials required, thus affecting the bid.
Surface condition: Homes with peeling paint, rot, or necessary repairs will require more extensive surface preparation (scraping, sanding, priming) than a home with well-maintained surfaces.
Accessibility: Homes with difficult-to-reach areas (e.g., high peaks, overhanging trees, limited access) may require specialized equipment or more labor, increasing the cost.
Scope of work: Your neighbor might request only the siding painted, while you may want to include trim, gutters, and the front door. The more elements included in the project, the higher your bid will be.
Does College Works offer financing?
We proudly offer a competitive home improvement loan option, making now the perfect time to paint your home. Learn about our program here.
Warranty coverage
What if I'm not satisfied with the work?
We are committed to customer satisfaction. If you have any concerns, please contact your student manager or our corporate office, and we will work to address them promptly.
Do you offer a warranty?
Yes, we stand behind the quality of our work and offer three distinct warranty protection options:
1-Year Warranty: Projects that require one coat of paint are protected by our one-year guarantee. This covers defects in workmanship and materials for one year after the job is complete.
3-Year Warranty: Projects that require two coats of paint are protected by our three-year guarantee. This covers defects in workmanship and materials for up to three years after the job is complete.
Where do I register my warranty?
Existing College Works clients are encouraged to register their warranty here.
How do I activate my warranty?
To activate your warranty, please contact a warranty specialist at our corporate headquarters at (888) 450-9675 or ask your College Works student manager for further details.