Painting can be a fun yet stressful home project all at the same time. Following a thorough process can help ensure that your work will be completed to a high quality with all your efforts resulting in a beautiful finish that enhances your interior design. Be careful to avoid these painting mistakes so you can get back to enjoying your home.
Skipping the Prep
Don’t try to get ahead on your schedule by skipping the preparation stage. You might think that some of these steps are unnecessary, but they make a large difference in your finished project. Some people try to save themselves time and money but what you’ll be left with is a surface that doesn’t look its best. Take the time to clean the surface and ensure that old paint has been scraped off. If you have used a patching compound on any spots, make sure that it has time to dry completely before starting your painting project. Finally, don’t underestimate the value is using a primer first to cover any remaining flaws on the surface and ensure a long-lasting finish.
Not Using Quality Tools
We all know the saying that you get what you pay for. Although you may be saving money initially by going cheap on brushes and rollers, you’ll end up investing those funds at a later time by fixing what those tools couldn’t provide. Quality brushes and rollers provide excellent coverage, which saves you time, and those tools can be used again for your next project. Also, using actual painter’s tape instead of masking tape provides the sharpest lines possible.
Forgetting to Consider the Traffic
Remember that high-traffic areas need more than just flat paint. Be sure to use durable paints like a premium matte finish that can withstand the rough traffic in a specific room, like your dining room or kitchen. Another great tip is to use washable satins or semi-glosses.
Forgetting to Sand
Paint has the best chance at durability and long-lasting performance when the surface has just a bit of texture. Therefore, instead of adding a new coat of paint directly on top of an existing layer you should use sandpaper on the surface. Follow that step with a light rinse with clean water.
Going Nowhere Fast
It’s important for painting projects that you have a planned course of action. You can easily find yourself aimlessly painting without the proper plan in place. Start near the ceiling and paint in a downward direction to achieve the smoothest finish. This allows you to catch drips while you’re painting.
Get in Touch with Columbia Paint Company Today
Columbia Paint Company is happy to help you choose the perfect color for your painting project and offer you tips for every step of the way. Not sure how to make sure your siding, trim, and accent colors match? Need to see the paints you loved online in person? Schedule an appointment today by calling 443-319-4001 or visiting us online. For more painting tips and updates, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, LinkedIn, Houzz, YouTube, and Pinterest!