Our Chooz Score evaluates 44 factors across reviews, digital presence, and business credentials. Here's what stands out for Paintworks & Decorating
When Manhattan resident Steven T. needed his apartment painted, he found what he called a "detail-oriented, quality company" in Paintworks & Decorating. That attention to detail defines the Long Island City operation run by owner Ricky, a union-trained master painter with over 20 years of experience, and project manager Ryan, who joined in 2017 to modernize operations with digital scheduling, text updates, and transparent communication systems.
The company handles residential painting across NYC apartments, Brooklyn brownstones, and Westchester homes, along with commercial projects for restaurants, offices, and retail spaces. Their specialty services include cabinet refinishing, wallpaper installation, drywall repair, and custom carpentry. Crew members like Luis, Aigars, Danny, and Victor appear by name throughout customer reviews, suggesting consistent in-house teams rather than rotating subcontractors.
The fully insured team carries liability, umbrella, and workers compensation coverage. They are EPA RRP lead-safe certified and offer a one-year warranty on all painting work against flaking or bubbling. Based in Long Island City, they serve Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Westchester County, and Northern New Jersey.
Updated: 04-06-2026
Communication stands out as a defining characteristic in reviews. Eric notes the team provided "constant communication and detailed updates" while Susan Wu appreciated "great communication and speedy timeline." Project manager Ryan coordinates scheduling and sends text reminders before crew arrivals, while owner Ricky personally handles estimates and client walkthroughs.
-Review Snippet Sources: Google Reviews
Cabinet work generates significant praise across reviews. Taylor Bratt describes results as "absolutely gorgeous" after having kitchen cabinets refinished, while Allison Chase notes they "treat your home like it's art." The process includes removal of hardware, proper prep work, multiple coats, and reinstallation. Crew member Luis frequently handles cabinet projects based on customer mentions.
-Review Snippet Sources: Google Reviews
Reviews consistently highlight thorough cleanup. Michelle Adams mentions the crew left everything "spotless" after completing work, and multiple customers note the team covers furniture, floors, and electronics with protective materials before starting. The company's 27-point checklist system includes detailed cleaning as a final step before walkthrough.
-Review Snippet Sources: Google Reviews
Pricing transparency appears frequently in reviews. Steven T. on Yelp notes that "Rick's proposal had details on what was to be done, materials incl/excl and pricing breakout for major tasks." Quotes arrive within 24-48 hours of consultation and include itemized costs, scope breakdown, and terms. The 50% deposit structure is clearly communicated upfront.
-Review Snippet Sources: Yelp, Google Reviews
When problems arise, the company responds professionally. Owner Ricky personally replied to Lauren P.'s concerns about paint inconsistencies, offering to "come back and make it right." Similarly, when Jona Ballé noted outlet plates were painted over rather than removed, the company offered to return and fix the issue. Reviews suggest accountability over defensiveness when addressing customer concerns.
-Review Snippet Sources: Google Reviews
Wallpaper projects receive strong praise from customers. Jamie Wachlarz describes the wallpaper work as "absolutely beautiful" and highlights the team's "fantastic communication." The company works with premium brands including Wolf-Gordon and handles both installation and removal. Their portfolio includes complex pattern matching and custom mural installations.
-Review Snippet Sources: Google Reviews
Speed without sacrificing quality emerges as a pattern. Nicolas Brown notes the team "finished the job in a day, on time" while Alyssa Ayunan mentions they "finished ahead of schedule." The company offers same-day and next-day estimate appointments, virtual consultations, and flexible crew scheduling to accommodate tight timelines for move-ins or property sales.
-Review Snippet Sources: Google Reviews
Paint Works & Decorating Inc is registered as a Domestic Business Corporation with the New York Department of State (DOS ID 4392074), initially filed on April 22, 2013. The entity status is Active. The company holds NYC Home Improvement Contractor License No. 2093229-DCA, issued April 4, 2023. However, the license status currently shows as Inactive with an expiration date of February 28, 2025. Prospective customers should verify current license status directly with NYC DCWP before contracting.
-Verification Sources: NYC DCWP License Lookup, NY DOS Entity Search
Updated: 04-07-2026