7 Common Painting Mistakes to Avoid

by Jeanne Caldwell 05/05/2019

Applying fresh coat paint is one of the easiest ways to revamp your home inside and out, especially when a professional painter does it. Many homeowners view painting as an easy job, but it is a complicated job that requires patience, skills, and the right tools. Before you attempt to give your room a new coat of paint, it is important to know the common mistakes most people make. However, identifying these mistakes doesn't guarantee a flawless job, so it will be wise for you to avoid the hassles and hire a pro to get it right. 

Using the wrong brush 

There are times when a paintbrush is the best tool to use, and there are times when it is better to use a roller. However, there are several types of paintbrushes out there, so it is essential to know which one you need before you decide to carry out a painting job in your home. Apart from buying the brushes, you need to know which works best. For example, synthetic brushes work best with latex paint while natural bristle brushes are ideal for oil-based paints.

Painting a dirty surface 

Your walls might look like they don’t need cleaning, but actually, they do. Before you paint your ceilings or walls, it is essential you clean them. When the paint gets applied on a clean surface, it looks and stays better, but if there is dirt or dust, it will interfere and result in a rough job. 

Putting too much paint on the roller 

Many people think putting more paint on the roller will get the job done fast, but too much paint on the roller will drip and spread roughly. Instead, dip your roller lightly into the paint and roll back and forth on a tray until the paint stops dripping.

Painting on a un-prepped surface 

If you want your painting efforts to be sleek, make sure you remove flaking and peeling paints. Also, glossy surfaces need a good scraping or sanding before applying a fresh coat paint. Otherwise, the paint won't stick well.

Skipping the tape 

Apply tape around door frames, windowsills, and any place that requires clean edges. Unless you are an expert at cutting in, failing to use tape will result in a sloppy-looking paint job.

Skipping the Primer

Primer helps cover the old color from bleeding through; it makes your paint durable and also adheres the paint to the wall. 

Painting the Ceiling Last 

If you paint the walls as well as the ceiling, it is best you paint the ceiling first or else the drips from the ceiling may ruin the paint job on the walls.

Call a professional painter to help you with your painting job at home for the best results.

About the Author
Author

Jeanne Caldwell

I am in the business of learning, and when you are buying a home, learning what the "perfect" beach dream home looks like to you is the starting point for finding it. When you are selling your family's home, hearing about what you have enjoyed while you lived there helps me find the next happy owners. It is a new frontier with targeting your message these days. Digital Platforms allow marketing to a targeted homebuyer who is looking for your home! As a Realtor, I use the North East Florida Association of Realtors MLS, and the many platforms included with it. Also used is Social Media, Digital Advertising, as well as good ole Print, Open Houses, and Signage in front of your house. Thinking about buying or selling? I am ready to hear what you have to say. Call Anytime. 904-699-4991