ᐅ Renovating Wooden Windows and Wooden Shutters – Requesting Advice

Hello everyone,

I have a few questions for the wood and painting experts.

Last week, I had our wooden windows and wooden shutters renovated by a professional painter, but I’m not entirely satisfied with the result.

He used a Cetol Novatech Next stain.

What went wrong here, and how can this be fixed?

Thank you in advance for your answers.

Where are the after photos?

No professional would do this with such drip marks! I’m guessing... myHamxxxx – is that correct?

This work was completed for us by a self-employed master painter and decorator, a state-certified designer, who even has his own website stating:

To deliver a perfect result, we place great importance on careful preparation and a clean working method.

We complained about his work and received the following response:

Such close-up photos are actually not allowed and also unnecessary, especially in areas where one does not stand permanently in case of emergency and therefore there is no real visual impairment.

But hopefully not paid yet?

No, but he is insisting on payment.
What should I do?

I believe there is a mediation board for every trade. I would contact them or get in touch with the trade association. At least don’t pay anything at this stage. To me, it looks like poor workmanship, though I’m not an expert in painting or varnishing. Once you pay, you lose any leverage to have the issue corrected. Completely sanding down and redoing the work could theoretically cost more than the work done so far. Don’t just wait it out—actively work towards a solution. And definitely seek professional advice or support. The mediation board shouldn’t charge anything upfront.