10 Common Mistakes to Avoid
When Painting Walls
Introduction
Painting interior walls can be a great way to refresh your home decor or prepare your property for sale. However, painting can quickly turn into a nightmare if you make some common mistakes. To help you avoid these mistakes, we’ve compiled a list of things you should not do while painting interior walls.
Here are some of the things you should avoid when painting your interior walls:
1. Don’t Skip the Preparation
Before you start painting your walls, it’s essential to prepare the surface properly. Skipping the preparation can result in a poor finish that won’t last long. Proper preparation includes cleaning the walls, sanding, and filling any holes or cracks. You should also remove any dirt, dust, or cobwebs from the surface before you start painting.
2. Don't Use Cheap Paint Brushes or Rollers
Using cheap paint brushes or rollers can lead to a frustrating experience and an unsatisfactory outcome. Cheap paint can require you to apply multiple coats of paint you didn’t budget for. Cheap brushes or rollers can shed bristles or leave streaks on the walls. Investing in high-quality brushes and rollers will ensure a better application and smoother finish. (1)
3. Don't Forget to Prime
Priming is a crucial step in the painting process that many people tend to skip. Priming helps the paint adhere to the surface, prevents stains from bleeding through, and allows the paint to cover the wall evenly. Skipping this step can lead to a patchy finish that requires more coats of paint than necessary.
4. Don't Rush the Drying Process
Many people make the mistake of not allowing enough time for the paint to dry before applying another coat or touching up the walls. Rushing the drying process can result in smudges, bubbles, or even pulling the paint off the walls. It’s best to wait for the recommended drying time before proceeding with the next coat.
5. Don't Paint Over Wallpaper
If your walls are covered with wallpaper, it might be tempting to paint over them instead of removing them. However, painting over wallpaper is not recommended, as it can result in a bumpy and uneven surface. It’s best to remove the wallpaper before painting to ensure a smooth finish.
6. Don't Neglect Safety Precautions
Painting can expose you to harmful chemicals and fumes that can be hazardous to your health. To ensure your safety, it’s important to wear protective gear such as gloves, goggles, and a mask. You should also ensure that the room is well-ventilated during the painting process.
7. Don't Paint in Extreme Temperatures
Painting in extreme temperatures can affect the quality of the paint and the finish. Avoid painting at temperatures below 50°F or above 85°F, as this can affect the paint’s consistency and drying time. If you must paint in these conditions, use a paint that’s designed to perform well in extreme temperatures.
8. Don't Overload Your Brush or Roller
Overloading your brush or roller with paint can result in drips and uneven coverage on the walls. It’s best to load a moderate amount of paint onto the brush or roller and apply it evenly to the wall. This will ensure a smooth and consistent finish.
9. Don't Paint Over Wet Surfaces
Painting over wet surfaces can lead to a variety of issues, including poor adhesion, blistering, and peeling. Ensure that the surface is dry before you start painting, and avoid painting in areas with high humidity or moisture levels.
10. Don't Rush the Cleanup Process
After you’ve finished painting, it’s important to clean up properly. Leaving paint brushes or rollers to dry can ruin them, and leaving paint cans open can result in spills or accidents. Take the time to clean up thoroughly, and dispose of any paint or debris properly.
Conclusion
Painting interior walls can be a fun and rewarding DIY project. However, it’s important to avoid some common mistakes to achieve a professional-looking finish. By following the tips and advice in this article, you can ensure that your painting project goes smoothly and results in a beautiful and long-lasting finish. Remember to prepare the surface properly, use high-quality tools, use enough paint in the right amount, and take safety precautions to protect yourself and your home.
If you’re not confident in your painting skills or simply don’t have the time to tackle the project yourself, you can always count on Wade Paint Co. to take care of everything for you. We’re the best professional interior painting service in Charleston, and we’ve got the experience and know-how to make sure your walls look absolutely stunning whether you live in a new building or one of Charleston’s historic homes.
Contact us today to schedule your project and experience a professional paint job. Let us handle your interior painting project from start to finish.
Reference:
(1) https://www.popularmechanics.com/home/interior-projects/how-to/g151/13-painting-secrets-the-pros-wont-tell-you/
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you cut in or roll walls first?
It’s best to start by cutting along the edges of the walls, around the trim, and around the ceiling, using a brush. Once you’ve done this, you can roll the walls with a roller for a smooth finish.
What's the best order to paint a room?
The general rule of thumb is to start at the top of the room and work your way down. So, begin with the ceiling, then move on to the walls, and finish with the trim.
Should you paint one wall at a time or the whole room?
It’s best to paint the whole room at once, rather than one wall at a time. This will ensure a consistent look and finish throughout the room.