If you’re getting ready to do some home interior painting, there are lots of things to stop and think about. The important details when it comes to painting and decorating like paint colour, paint finish and the cost to paint a room all factor in. Let’s dig right into all of the important things to consider when you’re getting ready for some at-home interior painting!
10 Things To Remember When You’re Thinking Of Doing Interior Painting
#1: Interior Painting: Inspiration & Picking A Paint Colour
When it comes to home interior painting, one of the most important and fun parts is picking out your paint colour. If you want to go bolder and do a rich burgundy, that could be your best indoor paint choice. Or maybe you want to make things more streamlined and simple, so you might think about grey paint for living room ideas. Whatever colour you go with, be sure to think about the lighting in the room, your flooring and existing furniture. Because it all makes a difference in terms of your home interior painting journey. If you need some inspiration, check out our colour inspiration page!
#2: Picking a paint sheen
When it comes to picking a paint sheen, it can make all the difference. There can be a real distinction between pearl finish paint and eggshell paint. For instance, pearl finish paint is a highly durable medium gloss sheen. And eggshell paint has a slightly more lustre than flat finishes. So, it’s important to stop and consider where you’re doing your home interior painting and what paint sheen will hold up best.
#3: Bring home paint samples
One thing that’s really important to remember when it comes to home interior painting is to not just look at paint samples in the paint store. It’s actually really important to bring some interior paint samples home with you. This way you can see your interior house paint in your own unique lighting as well as next to your flooring and any furniture. So, be sure to bring those interior painting samples home with you!
#4: Know what kind of paint you need for interior painting
In terms of the best-rated interior paint you’ll need for your interior painting project, you also need to consider if you need latex vs oil based paint. For interior house paint, most people go with latex nowadays, as it goes on smoothly, looks nice and is easy to clean. Some do consider oil-based paint for woodwork and trims though. It’s also good to think about the low VOC paint or zero VOC interior paint available as well. Take a look at Benjamin Moore Low VOC paints and Behr Low VOC paint.
#5: Know your interior square footage
Another thing that’s important to note before you start your interior painting project is the square footage of the space you’re painting. To learn all the details about interior painting cost per square foot, visit our blog here. But of course, in terms of understanding just how much indoor house paint you’re going to need.
#6: Prep work for interior painting
One big part of the process when it comes to painting is the prep work involved. And you will thank yourself later if you get this part done efficiently! When we talk about prep work, we’re referring to all the taping off along the doors and trim. Also, you’ll want to move furniture out of the room, if you can. Plus, be sure to take down everything from the walls and all the electrical plates. Also, if you can cover what you have left in the room with plastic sheeting for protection, that’s a good idea too.
#7: Get enough paint!
One thing that will definitely take up some valuable time along the way with your interior painting project is if you run out of interior house paint. So, be sure you have enough interior wall paint as well as some for the trims, baseboards and doors. It can be such a pain to run out of paint halfway through your interior painting project!
#8: Have the proper painting materials
This is exactly where you need to think about what interior primer you’re going to use. Or perhaps you want to use a 2-in-1 that has both latex indoor paint and primer. Plus, you’ll need your paintbrushes — perhaps a few different sizes. Also, paint rollers can make the process really go faster as well. If you’re painting a room with a high ceiling, it also makes a difference to have an extension pole too.
#9: Know your painting technique
One thing to keep in mind when you’re beginning to do your work is exactly how you should be painting your walls. For instance, it can be really helpful to ‘cut in’ your corners and edges while doing interior painting. In case you aren’t aware, ‘cutting in’ simply refers to using a paintbrush to paint areas that are too tight or small for paint rollers.
#10: Give your paint enough time to dry
Lastly, it’s always important to consider how much time your interior painting project needs to dry between coats. For most latex-based indoor paints, you should wait at least 4–6 hours before going in with your second coat. If you have the extra time, it’s more than okay to wait until the next day to do a second coat. Remember, paint can take a while to properly cure and dry. So, be sure to give it enough time so your house painting project looks stellar in the end!
The Process of Hiring a Professional Interior Painter: Making Informed Decisions
While a DIY approach to interior painting could be a rewarding undertaking, hiring a professional interior painter comes with its own advantages, including precision, speed, and a seamless finish. Understanding the road map for hiring a professional can make this process less daunting and more effective.
Understanding Your Needs and Defining Your Project's Scope
Your first step is clearly defining your project’s scope. Identify the rooms or spaces you wish to paint, decide on the colour scheme, and determine any additional services required like wallpaper removal, texturing, or repair work. These details will be critical when communicating with potential painters and obtaining accurate estimates.
Consideration Factors During the Selection Process
Selecting a professional interior painter is not just about price comparisons. Consideration should be extended to the painter’s experience, customer reviews, and industry reputation. Also, be aware of their professionalism during the interaction, their flexibility with scheduling, and their willingness to provide references.
Requesting Detailed Quotes
Once you have a shortlist of potential painters, request detailed quotes. These should include itemized costs for labour, materials, and any additional services. It’s also advisable to ask about the brand and type of paint they intend to use and why they recommend it for your particular project.
Ensuring Proper Licenses and Insurance
Ensure that your chosen professional holds the necessary licenses to perform the work. They should also have liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance to protect both parties in case of any accidents during the job. Without these protections, you could be held liable for any injuries occurring on your property.
The Importance of a Detailed Contract
A professional painter should provide a written contract outlining the scope of the project, the cost breakdown, the expected start and completion dates, preparation and clean-up details, and the brand, type, and colours of paint to be used. Having this roadmap not only sets the right expectations but also offers legal protection for both parties.
Work Check-Ins and Final Walkthrough
During the painting process, regular check-ins with the painter will ensure you’re updated and any issues can be addressed timely. Once the work is completed, insist on a final walkthrough with the painter. This is where any overlooked areas or needed touch-ups can be identified and corrected.
By following these professional painting tips and tricks, you can make an informed decision when hiring a professional for your interior painting project, ensuring a smoother process and higher-quality results. This journey, from defining your project scope to conducting the final walkthrough, underscores the balance needed to navigate cost-effectiveness, aesthetics, and functionality in your project’s interest.
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If you reside in Toronto and the GTA and need some help picking out interior painting colours don’t hesitate to call us! We will help you pick the colours you want and show you the latest painting and home renovation trends. Our home painting services with the best house painters have been around now for over 36 years. Call 416.494.9095 or email Brian@HomePaintersToronto for a FREE quote for your home painting needs. And don’t forget to check us out on our social media channels below!
