Painting the interior of your home can give it a completely fresh look. Whether you’re looking to paint for a new décor or simply freshening up tired paintwork we have some tips to help you get a good finish. You could consider hiring a professional such as A Perfect Finish Painting of Littleton but if you are set on a DIY job, the following tips should help, so let’s get started.
Prepare the Surface
Whether you are painting onto a bare wall or onto old paint you need to prepare the surface so the paint will take. The best way to do this is to sand down smooth paint so that it is rougher. Then you can add an undercoat which will form the surface to which your topcoats bond. This does add time, but simply painting new paint on without this technique. If you want a finish as close to the professionals as is possible this is where to start.
Choose the Right Paint
Using the right paint is essential, and by that we mean quality as much as type. You can get various types of paint for different areas – from a flat finish to a shiny one – and you should choose accordingly. There are also differences in paint for use outdoors and indoors, so make sure you choose the right one. The staff at your hardware or paint store will be able to advise you as to the best option, so tell them where the paint is for, and they’ll help you.
Use Quality Tools
Brushes come in two forms: synthetic, and natural bristles. We strongly recommend you use the latter for the best results.
Synthetic brushes are cheaper but will not give the finish that you want from your painting project. Spend that little bit more and buy a set of brushes that includes all the standard sizes, and you will be ready to go. If you clean your brushes properly – more on that later – they will last may uses.
Start at the Edge
Whatever you are painting, it is recommended you always start at the edge. This way you create a border and then fill in the space in the middle. Make sure you mask off any areas you don’t want to paint – glass, for example – close to the edge with adhesive tape. This will give you a fine finish when you remove the tape. Use a thinner brush to do the edging, and then switch to your wall brush or roller for the central space.
Buy a Good Roller
Just as with your brushes and your paint, a good quality paint roller will result in a much better finish than a cheap example. Talk to the staff at your paint suppliers for advice and they will happily direct you toward the quality items that will enable you to paint your wall or ceiling – or any part of the house – and get a smooth finish that you can be proud of. Rollers, when cared for, can last many years.
Consider Spray Painting
This option may require greater outlay, but the advent of portable and effective paint spray guns means large areas can be covered quickly. These machines also allow for an even finish that is impressive. You can find out more about them by looking online or try the paint supply shop for examples. This is a route to take if you perhaps have very large areas to paint, as it can save a lot of time and effort and make life much easier.
Take Your Time
Never rush a painting job as you will not enjoy the results. Always take the time to get it right. If this means leaving it overnight, that’s not a problem and will give the coat time to dry. You may also find that your first topcoat is not enough, so might want to put extra layers on. If you are painting over a darker color you will need to apply a few undercoats too, as the dark shade will show through. You will be able to see when you have applied enough to mask out the original color.
Cleaning Up
Cleaning the area and your tools after the job is finished is not fun, but it will prolong the life of your brushes and rollers. Wipe up any spills immediately they happen as they will dry quickly. If you have left-over paint, ensure it is in a tightly sealed tin or you will waste it.
Buy dedicated paint cleaner from your supplier and make sure you follow the instructions regards rinsing and cleaning and do this thoroughly in order to prolong the life of your brushes. There is plenty of advice online including videos that should help you understand how to correctly clean your brushes.
Leave it to Cure
Once you have finished the job and put your final coat on, cleaned your brushes and put everything away, it’s time to ask people to stay away from the wall or whatever you’ve painted for a good few days (and perhaps protect it from pets!) This is because the paint will not fully dry overnight and may need a couple of weeks to cure. During that time, fingerprints will be left if touched, and other marks might be made. Be careful with your new paintwork and it will look superb for many years to come.
Final Words
Be aware that many modern paints dry smooth and shiny not just for effect, but also in order that they can be wiped clean more easily. These are recommended in kitchens and bathrooms, and in areas such as children’s bedrooms and those frequented by cats, dogs, and other pets. Your paint retailer will be able to advise as to what type to use, and where.
We hope that this article has helped you understand how to get the best finish from a DIY paint job and decorate your home. There are many more tips that you will find if you start searching, so check them out now and good luck.
