No matter how long you live in your property, there will be times when you want to give the interior of your home a new look – maybe by purchasing new furniture or doing a bit of decoration. If you opt for decorating, it will likely involve some painting, which can be something to look forward to or dread. Regardless, of which category you fall in, these house painting tips will make the process a little less painful.
Try before you buy
When deciding colors, it is important to try some samples before committing. What may seem like an excellent idea might not look so good in reality. It is easy to pick up samples from any DIY store, and it will give you an opportunity to see how the color looks on the walls. You can either apply a small amount to a wall or on a small board.
Time
This is an area which many people always underestimate. This leaves them feeling frustrated and wandering while they didn’t just call in the experts. Take the time to think about how big the job is, and factor in drying times as well. Most importantly, be realistic!
Preparation
Once you have decided on the color, you are almost ready to start painting. But before you do, ensure that you thoroughly prepare the surfaces and surrounding areas. It is vital that you clean the surfaces and make sure that any dirt or cobwebs are removed before applying the paint. Failure to do this will result in a poor finish.
Also, if there are any holes in the wall, they will need filling before you start painting. Once you have prepared the surfaces, you should cover the floor with drop cloths or old sheets so that you don’t get any paint on the floor or carpets.
The final step in the preparation stage is to remove any electrical outlet and light switch covers. This is a job that many people often skip, and it ends up spoiling the overall result as the paint splashes on the fittings. Take five minutes now, so you save extra time later.
Right Tools for the Job
When you go to the shop to buy the paint, don’t guess what brushes or rollers will be ideal for the job. It is much better to ask an expert, as different tools work better for various surfaces. Also, check what kind of paint you are using, as this will affect the type of brush you will need. In general, it is best to pay a little more for higher quality tools. They will help you get a much better finish.
Painting
As we mentioned above, it is vitally important that you are realistic with allocating an appropriate amount of time for the job. If you are painting walls and ceilings, then the job can take a considerable amount of time to get right. It isn’t just a matter of applying one coat and then being happy with the job. You may need multiple coats, or there may be some hard to reach places.
Once you have finished painting, allow a suitable amount of time for the paint to dry and then you can step back and admire a job well done!