Decorating a house is a job some people love or hate, but it is one that will need doing at some point. There is no doubt that when the job is done well, the satisfaction is enormous. However, if you do a poor job, then there are usually a few tears.
You may have decided that now is a good time to redecorate the interiors of your house and that you are up to the task yourself. But before you start, take a quick look at these common mistakes that homeowners make before painting so that hopefully you can avoid them.
Picking the Wrong Colors
This is one of the most common mistakes that homeowners make when they attempt a DIY. Many people will go to the shop and fall in love with a color and go ahead with a purchase. Choosing your colors should never be decided on the spur of the moment.
Instead, find a few different shades and then get some samples from the shop to take home. Then, you can see how the paint looks in the room and in different lights. By comparing the different shades, you will be able to choose the best one and save yourself a lot of time and money.
Choosing the Cheapest Materials
In addition to paint, you will need a selection of brushes, rollers, mixing trays, and painting tape amongst other things. You may be tempted to go with the cheapest tools you can find, but this is a mistake and will affect the success of the project.
Spending a little bit more on brushes and rollers is always a good idea, as they will make the job easier and quicker without compromising on quality.
Not Asking the Professionals for Help
When you visit the DIY store, you can save a lot of time and money by asking someone for help. They will be able to advise you on the best kinds of paints to use on particular surfaces and what tools will be best for the job ahead.
Failure to Prepare, Prepare to Fail
This one is a classic and the subject of numerous slapstick sketches and family feuds over the year. Never just go straight to work without thorough preparation of the rooms and surfaces.
You should cover the floors and furniture, clean the walls and fill in any holes, and protect surfaces such as borders and skirting boards with painting tape. This will help avoid paint going where you don’t want it to go. Also, make sure that pets and kids are kept out of the room while you are painting, and keep paint cans covered to stop inevitable accidents!
Let There Be Light
Painting interiors in poor light or dimly lit rooms is likely to end in a poor finish, as you will likely miss certain spots. Therefore, always try to paint in natural light or at least have bright lights in the room.