DID YOU KNOW? art, keep, Lifestyle, Money, science, three, Work, World October 7, 2024

“Unmasking the 12 Painting Pitfalls: Are You Making These Costly Mistakes?”

So, you’ve decided to tackle that laundry room makeover and breathe some life into those dull walls. Ah, the sweet siren call of DIY! But before you leap into the painting fray with that leftover can from last year’s garage endeavor—hold your horses! It might be tempting to take the ‘can do’ route without a solid plan, but, trust me, painting can morph from a fun project into a rather disastrous tale quicker than you can say “oops.”

You see, wielding a paintbrush is like juggling art and science; it requires finesse and a bit of know-how. With just a smidge of foresight and preparation, you can avoid the most common pitfalls that lead to, shall we say, less than stellar outcomes. Think of it this way: Nobody wants to end up with a patchy wall that looks like it was painted by a three-year-old on a sugar high. So, let’s dive into some must-know tips to ensure your paint job shines, not just in theory, but in glorious reality.

Ready to roll? Let’s explore how to sidestep the most typical painting blunders and set your project up for success! LEARN MORE

The DIY gods whispered in your ear, and now you’re ready to refresh your laundry room’s paintwork. You may be tempted to just grab a brush and that can of paint from last year’s garage renovation, but don’t. Painting is easy in theory, but it can quickly become a mistake if you’re not careful.

Using a paintbrush can be both an art and a science. With a little forethought, you can bypass some of the most common mistakes. Painting is as much about preparation as it is about getting color on the walls.

Here are some common pitfalls to avoid to prevent unnecessary frustration and the need to fix your paintwork in the long run.

1. Using Low-Quality Equipment

Woman selecting paint at hardware store — Photo Credit: Depositphotos.com.

Just like trying to cook a gourmet meal with a rusty spatula, using low-quality brushes or rollers can foil even the best-laid painting plans. Cheap tools often shed bristles or have uneven surfaces, which can lead to streaks and unsightly lines.

Investing in high-quality brushes and rollers makes all the difference in achieving a smooth, professional finish. Quality tools may cost a bit more, but they’ll save you the headache (and potential do-over) in the long run.

2. Applying Too Much Pressure

Side view of girl painting wall with white paint — Photo Credit: Depositphotos.com.

Putting a little elbow grease into a task might work for scrubbing floors, but when it comes to painting, less is definitely more. Applying too much pressure with a brush or roller can lead to uneven coats and an unpleasant texture.

Instead, aim for moderate, even strokes to ensure a uniform, smooth application. It’s a bit like spreading butter on toast—you want full coverage, but you don’t want to tear the bread.

3. Using the Wrong Tools

A buyer wearing medical mask chooses a paint roller in a hardware store — Photo Credit: Depositphotos.com.

Using the wrong painting tools for a specific job can spell disaster. For example, brushes are great for detail work, while rollers excel at covering large areas. Knowing which tool to use (and when) can make all the difference in the finished product.

Not sure where to start? For edges and trim, reach for an angled brush. For ceilings and walls, a roller provides the speed and smoothness you need.

4. Painting in Low Light

Happy young couple in checkered shirts painting wall in new apartment — Photo Credit: Depositphotos.com.

Would you apply make-up or shave in the dark? Painting in low light is much the same because you might miss spots or not notice uneven coverage until it’s too late.

Proper lighting is crucial to seeing the true color and get full coverage. If natural light isn’t an option, invest in some good work lights.

5. Storing Paint Wrong

People renovating the house — Photo Credit: Depositphotos.com.

Imagine opening your paint can only to discover it’s turned into a gloopy mess. Proper storage is key to keeping your paint fresh and usable for future touch-ups. Lids should be sealed tightly, and cans stored in a cool, dry place away from extreme temperatures.

And here’s a quick tip—store the can upside down to create a seal that prevents air from getting in. It’s a small step that can save you time and money down the line.

6. Not Prepping Properly

Wall repair — Photo Credit: Depositphotos.com.

Rushing into painting without prepping your space is a big no-no. Proper preparation is essential for a smooth, professional finish.

Take the time to clean walls, patch up imperfections, and lay down protective coverings. A little extra effort upfront will save you a world of pain, and unsightly splotches, later on.

7. Buying Less Paint

Man holding paint bucket with blue paint near woman wearing gloves at home — Photo Credit: Depositphotos.com.

If you’re on a budget, you might really want that one can of paint to go around your four walls, but will it? Running out of paint halfway through a wall can lead to mismatched colors and patchy textures. Always purchase a bit more paint than you think you’ll need.

Calculate the square footage of your space and consult with paint professionals to determine the right amount. It’s better to have extra for touch-ups than to scramble for a color match later (which isn’t always a perfect match).

8. Not Applying Primer

Mature caucasian man painting cement walls using roller brush and primer making a renovation — Photo Credit: Depositphotos.com.

Skipping primer might seem like a time-saver, but it often results in a less vibrant finish and uneven textures. A good primer creates a smooth base for your paint, allowing for even color distribution and better adhesion.

Primer works well with your paint to create a wall finish that’s vibrant, smooth, and durable.

9. Improper Painting Techniques

Man renovating home — Photo Credit: Depositphotos.com.

Using the wrong techniques can turn a straightforward painting job into a frustrating experience. Use a technique known as “W” or “M” strokes, where you form a letter shape while painting. This helps in distributing the paint evenly, creating a smoother finish on your walls.

It’s also essential to keep a wet edge by working in sections. If you allow one area to dry before moving to the next, you’ll likely end up with noticeable lines where the two meet.

10. Ignoring the Weather

Happy smiling woman painting interior wall of new house. Happy smiling woman — Photo Credit: Depositphotos.com.

Temperature and humidity play crucial roles in how paint dries and adheres, even if you’re painting indoors.

Ideally, you want to paint when it’s between 50°F and 85°F (10°C to 29°C) with low humidity. Too much moisture in the air can prolong drying times and affect the finish, leading to potential drips or peeling later on.

11. Choosing the Wrong Paint Color

Seller and buyer selecting paint color — Photo Credit: Depositphotos.com.

This should be among the first things to do when you plan to paint. After all, the color you choose sets the tone for your entire space. It’s tempting to go for that trendy shade that caught your eye. Before diving in, test samples on your wall.

Colors can look drastically different on a paint chip than they do on your walls. Factors like lighting, room size, and existing furnishings can all influence how a color appears.

12. Not Using Stain Blocker When Painting Wood

senior man painting the doorway with white paint — Photo Credit: Depositphotos.com.

If you’ve ever tried to paint over wood, you might have noticed some unsightly discoloration peeking through your finished work. This is why using a stain blocker is so important.

Wood, especially if it’s old or has knots, can bleed through paint, leading to unsightly marks and ruining the overall aesthetic. A good stain-blocking primer acts like a shield, preventing any stains or tannins from ruining your fresh coat of paint.

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Woman buys washing machine in a store, holding manual. — Photo Credit: Depositphotos.com.

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