Home painting projects are among the most common DIY efforts among homeowners. This is primarily due to their desire to get the task done on their own terms, rather than wait for a professional company to do it. However, taking on this job yourself does come with risks. It’s up to you to avoid these common mistakes made while painting to ensure the best results possible. These are a few things to keep in mind.
Failing To Repair Walls Beforehand
In their rush to get the project finished, homeowners often fail to recognize the walls should be repaired first. Unfortunately, painting over cracks and nicks doesn’t cover them up. In fact, they make them even more noticeable after the paint has dried. Painting along uneven walls can also prevent the product from curing correctly to the surface, reducing the longevity of the results. This is why it’s vital you take the time to pinpoint any damaged and properly fill them before you start painting.
Not Knowing the Contents of the Paint
Homeowners also forget to take the paint itself into account. Not just any type of paint will do for your project—and many don’t stop to think about what that means. For starters, paint contains a series of different additives that can yield different effects. So, it’s important you take the time to pick the ones that will give you the result you’re after. Having a solid understanding of how house paint is made and what all goes into the process will be key in determining its effectiveness.
Using the Wrong Type of Brush
Another common mistake made while painting a room is to use the wrong kind of tools. Brushes, in particular, come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes to suit several different needs for a project. However, for those who aren’t as experienced, this makes it very easy to accidentally pick something that won’t be as effective. Therefore, as a general rule, make sure you’re using a brush that won’t go limp from absorbing too much water and that fits within all your wall’s corners.
Forgetting To Apply a Priming Product
But, above all else, make sure you don’t forget to prime as well as paint your walls. Primer is crucial in preventing colors from bleeding and helping the pigment cure properly to the surface. Essentially, they help lock in the color so it dries properly and doesn’t affect the surfaces around it. Fortunately a lot of modern paint products come with a primer already mixed in, saving you this additional step.
