Sick and tired of bad painting jobs? Spots that may appear as stains, cracking paintwork, and raised surfaces can quickly turn a simple DIY task into a frustrating nightmare. But do not worry, all you future painters out there! Given below are some easy solutions to some of the most frequent painting mistakes, to make your walls look like they were painted by a pro!
In this guide, we are going to discuss the painting norms that you should know to ensure you get professional results during your next painting project. We will cover techniques for preparing the surface and steps when applying paint and many other aspects of painting to achieve the perfect, lasting finish. Let's begin with painting do’s and dont’s.
DO'S
1. Prepare the Surface Thoroughly
Any successful painting depends upon proper surface preparation of the area to be painted. First of all, you should prepare the wall or a surface you are going to paint by washing them from dust, dirt, and oil residues. For tough stains, you can wet the fabric with warm water, add a very small amount of mild detergent on a sponge and rub the fabric in this solution. It is recommended to let the surface dry for a reasonable amount of time before putting on the following coat.
As a next step, one should look at the surface to establish whether it has some damage like cracks, holes, or bumps after you clean it. Fill these with spackling compounds and sand them smooth when dried. For smooth and shiny surfaces or those walls that have a previous coat done with an inconsistent surface, rubbing down the entire surface with fine-grit sandpapers will help to enhance the surface preparation process for better paint adhesion.
2. Use High-Quality Tools and Materials
The choice of the paint, brush, and roller should be as high quality as possible because they can make a great difference. Choosing good quality brushes and rollers minimizes the chances of having streaks on the walls and other brush marks. Furthermore, good paint also has the benefit of covering well and frequently needing only one coat rather than several which can be costly in the long run.
In the selection of paint, it is also important to take note of the type of finish that would suit the place. If the room frequently gets a lot of traffic or it is exposed to moisture like kitchens, or bathrooms, use paint finishes that are easy to clean for instance satin or semi-gloss. Both matte and eggshell are recommended for living and bedroom areas since they provide a smooth and classy surface.
3. Protect Floors, Furniture, and Fixtures
It is essential to cover flooring, furniture, and fixtures with necessary covers to avoid paint splatter or spills. Put down drop cloths to cover the entire floor and transfer furniture to the middle of the room or another area. Tape over doorknobs, light fixtures, switch plates, and outlet covers with painter’s tape to keep them from getting painted.
In the case of carpets or rugs, it is wise to add a layer of protection such as heavy-duty rosin paper or plastic sheeting. The use of painter’s tape at the edges will ensure that they do not move as the painter paints the walls.
4. Protect Floors, Furniture, and Fixtures
To make the wall or the surface ready for painting it is necessary to prepare the walls through the process of priming. Primer assists in sealing the surface and prepares a smooth surface for the paint to adhere to. It also brings out any flaws and spots and ensures that they do not seep through the new layers of paint.
Select the primer that corresponds to the type of surface you intend to work on. When dealing with new drywall or bare wooden surfaces, it is best to use a high-quality primer formulated for the surface. If you are painting over a dark colour or a surface with stains, then apply a matching colour primer that will require lesser paint coats and primer coats.
5. Test Paint Colours
Paint colours can look different under various lighting conditions and against different surfaces. Good advice is to paint a small area on the wall or use a piece of cardboard which may be taken from one place to another to see the final result of the colour. Take note of how the colour looks in both daylight and artificial light during the day.
When you test paint colours, you can tweak things before repainting the whole room. Another thing to remember is the lighting and the interior design of the room when choosing such colour to fit your home well.
6. Apply Paint Properly
When it comes time to paint, follow best practices to achieve a professional finish. Start by cutting in—the process of using a brush to paint areas that are difficult to reach with a roller, such as corners, edges, and trim. Use a small brush and work carefully to create clean lines and avoid getting paint on adjacent surfaces.
After cutting in, use a roller to apply paint to the larger wall surfaces. Start from the top of the wall and work your way down in overlapping vertical sections. Apply paint in thin, even coats to prevent drips and ensure consistent coverage. Avoid pressing too hard on the roller, which can create uneven texture and streaks in the paint.
7. Allow Proper Drying Time
Well, patience is important when painting. Let each layer of the paint dry as recommended by the manufacturer to prevent the formation of blisters and paint peeling off after the painter's tape has been removed. If the paint is dried hurriedly, then the final surface will contain smudges, an irregular surface or the paint surface may experience some damage.
Before applying the subsequent coats, one needs to evaluate the results of the previous coat under different lighting conditions to see that the colours and gloss of the paint are even. You can retouch any area you think you may have missed or look uneven before moving to the next step.
DON'TS
1. Skip Surface Preparation
One typical mistake that most people make is omitting or doing the surface preparation in a hurried manner which may result in a weak bond, uneven surface, and erosion of the newly applied paint within a short time. You could have smooth walls but due to dust and grease, the paint either does not stick well to the wall or starts peeling off or has an uneven surface in the long run.
2. Forget to Protect Surfaces
Accidents such as paint splatters and spills are very normal in painting but not protecting the floor, furniture and fixtures from the paint can cause a lot of damage and still cost a lot of money when one has to clean the affected part. It is important that before starting the painting process, all the surfaces are properly covered by drop cloths, plastic sheeting and all areas that should not be painted.
3. Skip Primer
An important part of preparing surfaces for applying paint is using a primer because it prepares and helps create a slick surface that will make the paint last longer. Not applying the primer on bare surfaces or over the stains may lead to poor paint penetration, gains and pits, and colour disparity. It’s always recommended to bring the surface to prime before painting to achieve even and long-lasting work.
4. Overlook Lighting and Color Testing
Not paying attention to the aspects of lighting and colour testing may mean that you select a paint colour that appears utterly distinct on the walls. Always conduct a trial of paint on the walls, in various, lights, and against different surfaces to avoid making a hasty decision.
5. Apply Too Thickly
Applying paint too thickly can lead to drips, sags, and an uneven finish. Use a roller or brush to apply paint in thin, even coats, allowing each layer to dry completely before applying the next. This technique will help achieve a smooth and professional-looking paint job.
6. Ignore Weather Conditions
Painting in extreme temperatures or high humidity can affect the paint's drying time and adhesion. Avoid painting on very hot days or during rainy weather, as these conditions can lead to issues such as blistering, poor drying, or even paint failure. Aim for moderate temperatures and low humidity for optimal painting conditions. Painting in winter is a great option.
7. Overload the Brush or Roller
Overloading your brush or roller with paint can lead to drips, splatters, and uneven application. Dip the brush or roller into the paint only about a third of the way up the bristles or nap, and then gently tap off any excess on the edge of the paint can or tray. This ensures a smooth and controlled application without wasting paint.
8. Neglect Proper Cleanup
It is very important to wash your brushes, rollers and other painting accessories that you use once so that they stay in good shape and function as they should. To clean stubborn grout, take some warm water and mild liquid soap to wash the surface that has the latex paint or if the paint is oil based then use paint thinner to clean the surface properly. It is also important to manage brushes and rollers in a way that they do not dry up between coats or after several intervals; it is best to cover them with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
9. Paint Over Wallpaper
Most professionals advise against painting over wallpaper because this may result in peeling, bubbling, and an uneven coat. When painting over wallpaper, be certain it is properly installed and the paper is not in bad shape. This will involve applying primer on the wallpaper before painting to minimize chances of deterioration during the process.
10. Use Incorrect Techniques
Improper painting techniques, such as haphazardly applying paint or failing to maintain a wet edge, can result in visible brush strokes, lap marks, or uneven coverage. Always paint in smooth, overlapping strokes and maintain a wet edge to blend sections seamlessly. Take your time and work systematically to achieve a professional-looking finish.
11. Forget About Ventilation
Proper ventilation is important when painting indoors to ensure adequate air circulation and to dissipate paint fumes. Open windows and doors, and use fans to improve airflow while painting and during the drying process. Consider wearing a respirator mask if working with oil-based paints or in poorly ventilated areas to minimize exposure to fumes.
12. Neglect Post-Painting Touch-Ups
Once the paint has dried completely, inspect the walls for any missed spots, drips, or imperfections. Touch up these areas using a small brush or roller to ensure a seamless finish. Pay attention to corners, edges, and trim where touch-ups may be needed to achieve a uniform appearance throughout the room.
Get Professional Help To Paint Your Home from Adam Painters and Decorators
If, after reading this guide, you still feel apprehensive about taking on a painting project yourself, don't hesitate to seek professional help. Adam Painters and Decorators, a reputable company based in the UK, offers top-notch painting services that can save you time, effort, and potential headaches. With next-day availability, instant online price calculations, and a team of verified and experienced painters, at Adam, we ensure a hassle-free experience and impeccable results. Our satisfied customer base and successful track record with over 10,000 completed jobs speak volumes about our commitment to excellence. So, why not sit back, relax, and let the professionals work their magic? Get a free quote today and enjoy a fresh, flawless look for your home without the common painting pitfalls.
Conclusion
Avoiding these common painting mistakes requires careful planning, attention to detail, and patience. By following these dos and don'ts, you can enhance your painting skills and achieve a professional-quality finish that transforms your living space. Remember to prioritize surface preparation, use high-quality tools and materials, and follow proper techniques throughout the painting process. With a methodical approach and a commitment to quality, you'll be able to enjoy the results of your DIY painting efforts for years to come.