Picking out new colours for your home is exciting, but there are a few things you need to do first to make sure your home looks stunning. Before adding that gorgeous colour of paint to your walls, read these tips to ensure you have a flawless application.
No Prep
Doing a little prep work can save you a lot of headache and cleanup in the end. To avoid splatters and drips, cover your furniture and floors with drop cloths. Wrap door knobs with plastic, tape around the edges of the trim and remove the switch and outlet covers.
Not Using Painter’s Tape
Taping ensures that you will have a polished finish and clean edges. Make sure that you tightly tape around windows and baseboards to limit bleeding. Peel the tape off before the paint is completely dry because if you wait, the dried paint might peel off with it.
Not Cleaning the Walls
You can prevent ripples and dust from forming on drying paint by cleaning the walls before you start. First, vacuum over the walls then mix two cups of vinegar with one gallon of warm water and wash them with a rag. Don’t forget the baseboards and corners.
Not Buying Enough Paint
When you have finished painting the third wall, and you are in the home stretch, the last thing you want is the paint can to be running empty. No one wants to have to go to the store covered in paint and mid-project. Take measurements and estimate correctly before you first head out. A gallon of paint usually covers about 400 square feet. Account for more in your estimate for future touch ups. It is also ideal to get all of your paint on your first trip because the colour can vary slightly if it is mixed at different times.
Using the Wrong Paintbrush
With latex paint, you need a synthetic brush made from nylon or polyester bristles. For oil-based paint, use a natural-bristle brush.
Ignoring the Weather
If you are doing an exterior paint project, make sure you check the humidity levels before getting started. High humidity can make water-based paints take longer to dry. If it’s going to be especially humid, consider waiting until levels drop.
Using the Wrong Paint
If you are painting over an existing job, you need to know what you are working with first. Applying latex paint over an oil-based formula will cause it to crack and peel. If that is the case, you will need to first sand down the oil-based formula before applying a new coat.
Skipping Primer
The primer provides a smooth surface for the paint to adhere to, creating a beautiful finish. It will also help bring out the exact colour you have selected. Paint and primer in one work the best on surfaces that have already been painted. If you are working with brand new drywall or wood, use a primer first and then paint over it.
Dunking Your Brush
Do not dip your paintbrush completely into the can. Only dunk it in a third of the way. You will avoid dripping and wasting a lot of paint that way.
Not Waiting Long Enough
If you paint your second coat on too quickly, it could result in visible brush strokes or peeling paint, ruining all of your hard work. Follow the instructions on your paint can concerning drying times between coats. If you are unsure of drying times, wait at least 24 hours.
To ensure a flawless finish for your paint job that is completed quickly, contact Pinnacle Decorating South. Our team of experienced painters have years of experience so you can rest assured that your walls will look stunning without lifting a finger. Call us today for a quote!