If you’re doing some painting at home, there are many things to think about before you get started. Sometimes people get so excited to spruce up a room or make a change that they just dive right in. They don’t stop to really think about what needs to be done beforehand in order to make it a success. That is exactly when these common painting mistakes come into the mix.
If you’re embarking on a house painting project, there are definitely some common painting mistakes to watch out for. Don’t worry though. We’re here to make sure you’re perfectly prepped (just like your walls) and that everything goes smoothly. And don’t forget, you can always turn to your trusted residential house painting services if you get stuck.
Common Painting Mistakes: Not Doing Any Prep
Sometimes, when something exciting is on the horizon, we tend to get a bit ahead of ourselves. We almost want to rush through the process to get to the great end result. The problem here can be that when we don’t follow through with proper prep work, the paintwork can suffer. That’s why it’s an imperative part of the process and a common painting mistake to avoid when you don’t do any prep.
When we say prep, you want to ensure that you’ve taken the time to put plastic sheeting over your furniture. It’s also important to put drop cloths on the floor to avoid splatters. You want to go around the room and do any patchwork and sanding. Giving the room a good scrub-down always helps as well. Be sure to remove the outlet and switch covers as well. Make sure you have enough primer and paint too, as that can be left unconsidered in terms of common painting mistakes.
Buying Cheap Paint Brushes & Rollers
One lesson professional painting companies will tell you in terms of common painting mistakes is that the tools you use for the job matter. If you decide to go cheap with your brushes and rollers, it will show up in the paintwork. One thing to remember is that you can use only the best and most top-quality paint, but if your brushes and rollers are subpar, you will notice.
Quality brushes and rollers provide the smoothest coverage and can actually save you money on paint in the long run. Also, if you go with decent brushes and rollers right from the get-go, they will last you for years if you take care of them.
Common Painting Mistakes: Skipping Primer
One of the most common painting mistakes for individuals embarking on their own paint jobs is skipping the priming process. When you use primer on your walls prior to painting, it actually works to give the paint a good surface to adhere to. When you have a decent surface for the paint to stick to nicely, it works to create a nice, smooth finish.
Also, it really pays to use a primer prior to painting your walls because it helps to bring out the paint colour more as well. You can use a 2-in-1 primer and paint, but that’s best to use on surfaces that have already been painted. Keep this common painting mistake in mind next time you’re thinking about passing on the primer!
Using Low-Quality Tools
Top-quality paint won’t compensate for cheap brushes or rollers. Investing in high-quality tools can make a huge difference in your project’s outcome. Good brushes produce smoother strokes, while better rollers provide more uniform coverage, reducing the likelihood of brushmarks or uneven layers.
Overloading Your Brush or Roller
More paint does not equal better coverage. Overloading your brush or roller can lead to drips, uneven coating, and a general mess. The secret here is simple: dip your brush about a third of the way into the paint and wipe off the excess. Same for a roller: roll it in your tray enough to saturate it evenly, but not so much that it drips.
Not Waiting Long Enough For That Second Coat
Is it just us or do a lot of these common painting mistakes have to do with being a little too impatient? Another crucial tip to remember when you’re painting is to make sure you wait long enough to do that second coat. If you go in too soon with that second coat, it can cause the paint to peel. You might also see some visible brush strokes as well, which look very sloppy.
So, just be sure to follow the instructions on your can of paint and if you’re still not quite sure, it’s always considered a good call to wait 24 hours between coats. If you’re in need of some interior painting inspiration, head over to our Pinterest page!
Painting Problems and Solutions: Overcome Common Hurdles with Confidence
When met with challenges, remember that every problem has a solution. Let’s tackle some of the most common painting problems together, transforming these hurdles into stepping stones toward your project’s success.
Problem 1: Paint Drips and Runs
Culprit: Overloading your brush or roller with paint.
Solution: Less is more. Dip your brush a third of the way into the paint, tapping off the excess. With rollers, ensure it’s evenly coated but not saturated. If you encounter drips, smooth them out immediately with a brush or roller. For dried drips, sand the area lightly once it is dry and touch up with a small amount of paint.
Problem 2: Uneven Paint Coverage
Culprit: Skimping on primer or applying uneven layers.
Solution: Ensure you use a primer for a smooth, uniform base. Apply the paint in thin, even coats, allowing ample drying time between. For consistency, a second (or even third) coat is often the charm, especially for vibrant or deep colours.
Problem 3: Brush Marks
Culprit: Using low-quality brushes or the wrong technique.
Solution: Invest in high-quality brushes suitable for the type of paint you’re using. Apply paint with gentle, even strokes. For water-based paints, consider adding a paint extender to slow drying times, reducing brush mark visibility.
Problem 4: Bubbling or Blistering Paint
Culprit: Painting on a damp surface or exposure to extreme moisture.
Solution: Pre-painting, ensure the surface is completely dry and free from humidity. If bubbles appear, wait for the paint to dry, then scrape off the blistered paint, sand smooth, and repaint, ensuring a moisture-free environment this go-around.
Problem 5: Fading Colour
Culprit: Exposure to sunlight or using the wrong paint or low-quality paint.
Solution: Opt for premium quality, UV-resistant paints if the surface is exposed to sunlight. Additionally, consider investing in paint with higher lightfastness ratings to ensure the longevity of colour vibrancy.
Problem 6: Mould and Mildew Growth
Culprit: Moisture infiltration, lack of sunlight.
Solution: Tackle the source of moisture first. Then, clean the affected area with a mold-killing solution and repaint with mold-resistant paint. Ensure good ventilation in the area to prevent recurrence.
As we navigate these common painting mistakes, problems and solutions, remember, that each challenge presents an opportunity to learn and grow. Never hesitate to reach out to professionals when in doubt, and always give yourself grace through the process. With these actionable solutions, you’re well-equipped to tackle any obstacle with confidence, leading to a beautifully painted space that you’ll be proud to call your own. Happy painting!
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Not feeling up to the work yourself? Want to avoid all of these common painting mistakes? It sounds like you could use some professional house painters! Why not let Home Painters Toronto take a load off your back? With over 36 years of experience in home painting and renovations, call us NOW at 416.494.9095, or email us at Brian@HomePaintersToronto.com to get a FREE estimate for your interior painting project and consultation about what paint to choose. And don’t forget to follow us on all our social channels below!
