"5 Pro Tips for Flawless Interior Painting Results"

Here are our 5 Pro Tips for Flawless Interior Painting. Follow these and you are sure to have that professional Finish!

1. Preparation is Key

Before you start painting, thoroughly inspect the surfaces you'll be working on. Remove any old paint chips, dirt, or grease by washing the walls with a mild detergent solution such as

Simple Green All Purpose Cleaner. Pay special attention to areas near stoves, sinks, and high-traffic zones, as they may have accumulated more grime. Repair any cracks or holes with spackling compound or filler, and sand down any rough patches to create a smooth surface for painting.

2. Choosing the Right Type of Paint

One of the most important things to consider is what type of paint you will use. Here’s what you should consider when preparing for the interior painting:

• Avoid directly applying water-based paint over surfaces with oil-based paint without proper prep. Lack of preparation can lead to the new paint peeling off.

• The sheen of the paint can dramatically affect the appearance of walls. Choose wisely to avoid highlighting imperfections and to enhance the room’s overall look.

• Conduct a simple test with denatured alcohol to determine if the existing paint is water or oil-based.

• Decide on the sheen based on the room’s function and the condition of the walls. Matte or flat finishes are best for hiding imperfections in low-traffic areas, while glossier finishes, suitable for kitchens and bathrooms, are easier to clean but can make flaws more visible.

3.Using the Right Tools

The temptation to save money by purchasing cheap brushes and rollers is one of the house painting mistakes to avoid. Inferior tools can lead to many problems, including uneven application, brush marks, and excessive shedding of bristles or roller fibers.

Investing in high-quality painting tools can significantly enhance the finish of your paint project. Synthetic brushes and rollers are preferred for water-based paints as they don’t absorb water and lose shape. For oil-based paints, natural bristle brushes provide a smooth, even coat. Also, match the size and style of the brush or roller to the specific area you are painting for the best results.

4. Test Paint Colors and Sheens

Choosing a paint color from a swatch under fluorescent lighting in a store is a gamble that often leads to disappointment. The same goes for selecting a sheen without considering the room’s lighting and intended use.

Always test paint colors in the space to be painted, observing how different lighting conditions throughout the day affect the color. Paint large swatches on the wall, or use peel-and-stick samples available from many paint companies.

As for sheen, flat or matte finishes are great for hiding imperfections, making them ideal for ceilings and low-traffic areas. Higher gloss sheens are more durable and easier to clean, perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, and trim.

5. Protect Surfaces

Protecting surfaces is a crucial step in ensuring a flawless interior paint job. Before you start painting, take the time to properly cover and mask off any areas you don't want to get paint on. This includes trim, baseboards, ceilings, windows, and floors. Use high-quality painter's tape to create clean, crisp lines along edges and corners, ensuring that no paint seeps through onto adjacent surfaces. For larger areas or delicate surfaces, consider using drop cloths, plastic sheeting, or rosin paper to provide additional protection against drips, spills, and splatters. Secure these coverings with painter's tape or masking tape to keep them in place throughout the painting process. Taking the extra time to protect surfaces before you begin painting will not only save you time and effort in cleaning up later but also ensure that your finished paint job looks professional and flawless from every angle.

Final Notes

Painting your home can seem like an overwhelming task, but there are many small tips and tricks that can make a huge difference. Keep in mind, even if you make a mistake, you can almost always go back and fix it. Through research and determination you can save money and achieve professional results all on your own!