About To Paint Your Home DIY? Here Are Some Tips From The Pros You Should Read Before You Pick Up That Paint Brush

house-painterNothing makes a house scream “new” like a fresh coast of paint. No matter how old the home, a newly applied coat of paint can completely transform the home. Sometimes painting can be a DIY project, while other times, you might need to hire a professional. To decide this, you’re going to have to realistically look at the size and expense of the project. If you are painting the exterior, you are likely going to need to call in a pro. If its just a room or two on the inside of the home, you can probably go the DIY route, for example. It will largely depend upon whether or not you have time to dedicate to this project, and how much of it. When it comes to painting, every step matters; you can’t skip one. There is no point in painting if the work is going to be mediocre.

livingroom-painterYou’re going to need to spend a fair amount of money on materials. This is an area where you don’t want to skimp. You have to buy high quality paint, caulk, and primer. The good news is that many of these things have lifetime warranties. Especially if you hire a pro. Usually, if the caulking starts to fall apart in certain areas a few weeks after the job is complete, they’ll come in and re-do it for free. Be sure to select the best paint brands. You won’t regret spending a little more for a better paint job.

It is critical that the paint is applied onto a completely clean and dry surface; this means that the walls will need to be sanded. The level of sanding will depend on the current state of your wall(s). If you are looking at the exterior, expect to pressure wash. If you don’t own one, they can be rented inexpensively from a home improvement store. If you aren’t familiar with pressure washing, this isn’t the time to experiment; you should hire someone.

Before you even invest money into this project, find out when your house was painted last. If it was last painted before 1975, the home probably has lead-based paint. You’ll need to hire someone who is certified in removing it. If you don’t, you’re going to have tiny lead chip particles all over your home which can be fatal. house-paint-colors-interior-images-modern-design-on-home-gallery-design-ideas

One coat isn’t going to get the job done. Again, you cannot skimp on materials when it comes to painting. If you don’t have the money or time to do the job correctly, it is much better that you wait. Never forget to use a primer. You’re also going to have to purchase painting tools such as brushes, sprayers, and rollers. You’ll also want to be sure that you don’t paint on days where the weather isn’t quite up to snuff. Only paint when the weather is between 60-92 degrees Fahrenheit outside. Too cold, and the moisture in the air won’t allow the paint to dry correctly. Likewise, too hot of temperatures can cause issues too.

Cover up anything that you don’t want paint to get on. Painting is messy business, and you can expect at least a minor spill or two. Don’t forget to use painters tape for outlet plates and light switches. There are also many tools and resources online that you can visit to learn even more tips. Happy painting!

2 Comments

  1. If you’re going to DIY when you paint, please be sure you’re practicing patience. I got really A.D.D. and wanted to do the next steps of the painting before waiting for layers to dry. It will look nice AT FIRST, but when everything does dry, there are going to be bubbles and uneven places.

    • Hi Molly! GREAT point! People think you can keep following the steps even before the paint dries, because as they continue, the wall(s) still look nice, even perfect actually. It isn’t until it dries that it becomes a total mess. Always invest in great paint, and wait for each layer to FULLY dry before beginning the next coat.

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