Painting is a wonderful way to breathe new life into your home. But achieving that perfect finish isn’t without a few potential pitfalls, which can turn your artistic aspirations into a nightmare. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a weekend warrior with a brush in hand, there are some things you can easily forget about that can ruin your walls.
With that said, let’s get into some of the painting blunders that could ruin your painting project and how to avoid them like a pro.
Not Prepping the Surface
According to Dallas Paints, skipping the surface preparation is one of the biggest missteps you can make. A clean and smooth surface is essential like a good foundation is for a house, just like paint. In fact, dust, grease and peeling paint can all affect the finish, leaving you with uneven surfaces and premature wear. Wash the walls a bit, repair any holes and sand out any rough spots. You will be thankful to yourself for the extra effort.
Choosing the Wrong Paint
Picture this: you’re in the paint aisle, surrounded by a rainbow of cans, and you pick up the first one you see. Hold on! The wrong paint can ruin your efforts. Think about what type of paint you should use for your space always. If you live in a high moisture area like a bathroom, choose one that is mildew resistant. A washable paint is your best friend if you want a durable finish in high traffic areas.
Using the Wrong Tools
Without the right tools, imagine trying to bake a cake… it’s chaos! The same goes for painting. If you use the wrong brushes or rollers, you may not get the results you want. Different jobs have different tools. A roller is good for large, flat surfaces, a brush for corners and trim work. Invest in quality tools and you won’t have to worry about your walls having a flawless finish.
Rushing the Drying Time
If you don’t have patience, painting might not be your strongest suit. Rushing the drying time means you’ll get smudges and uneven finishes. There is time for each coat of paint to dry before the next one goes on. Read the manufacturer’s instructions and don’t be tempted to dive in too soon. It’s like waiting for a fine wine to breathe, good things come to those who wait!
Skipping Primer
Skipping the primer is like baking a cake without flour, sure you can do it, but the end result will probably be disappointing. Primer isn’t just for providing better adhesion to the paint, it makes that color stand out. If your wall is dark and you’re painting it with a lighter color, you need to prime. Secondly, it gives you uniformity to base and can usually save you from doing multiple layers of paint. This crucial step shouldn’t be skipped!
Neglecting Ventilation
Have you ever tried to cook in a kitchen with the windows closed? It’s quick to become stale, and you might even find yourself gasping for air. Painting without proper ventilation is similar. Strong paint fumes can be toxic, so open windows, turn on fans and keep the air moving. It’ll also help the paint dry more evenly and your lungs will thank you.
Ignoring the Paint Sheen
It’s important to choose a paint color, but don’t forget the finish! Eggshell, flat, satin, semi gloss and gloss finishes are all unique in their own way. Flat or high gloss finish can highlight the imperfections, or flat finish can be more forgiving, but it is not so easy to wash. Think about how much wear they’ll get and what room they’re designed for. The sheen you choose can be the deciding factor in the look and life of your paint job.
Neglecting to Tape
If you think you can paint a straight line without tape, you’re wrong! Painter’s tape is not to be ignored; messy edges and accidental paint splatters can result. Tape helps clean lines and protects adjacent surfaces. Make sure you press the tape down firmly so it doesn’t bleed paint underneath. This is a small step that can save you hours of touch ups!
Not Testing the Color
Choosing a paint color is like picking a partner, and it’s not one you just ‘throw’ on like clothes. Testing a color on the wall before slapping it on there can save you from regret. The color can be dramatically different depending on the lighting. Go put some sample pots and paint swatches on the wall to check what they look like at different times of the day. This little trial run can keep you from having a color catastrophe down the road.
Painting Without a Plan
Entering a painting project without a game plan is like going into a new city without a map. A successful outcome depends on having a clear vision of your design, color scheme and layout. If you take the time to plan out how you want the finished space to look, you’ll avoid the chaos of spur of the moment decisions that could result in a haphazard finish.
Neglecting Clean-up
When you’ve had a long day of painting, it’s easy to just say, ‘I’m done,’ toss the brushes and rollers aside for tomorrow. However, if you neglect clean up, you will end up with ruined tools, a messy space. The simple step is to clean your brushes and rollers as soon as you’re done and to store your leftover paint responsibly. It’s like putting your toys away after playtime, so your future self will thank you for taking the time to tidy up.
Not Considering the Weather
Painting in a rainstorm might sound like a crazy idea, but it’s a recipe for disaster. The success of your paint job depends on weather. The drying process and final appearance can be negatively affected by high humidity; extreme temperatures; direct sunlight; as well as other UV media. See how the weather is doing to know if it is the best possible day for your project.
Skipping Safety Gear
Starting a painting project without proper safety gear is like going skydiving without a parachute, it is not a good idea! According to Healthline, paint fumes and splatters can be dangerous to health. When you work, make sure to also wear a mask, gloves and safety goggles to protect your self. These are small steps to your safety, and giant ones towards a worry free project.
Overlooking Touch-ups
Don’t assume that once the paint is dry everything is perfect. Touch ups can help give your walls a more complete look. Look at your work from a distance to see if you see any missed spots or drips, grab a brush and fix them up before you celebrate! It is the best frosting that makes your masterpiece look decent!
Being Too Ambitious
It’s great to dream big, but being too ambitious can be a disaster. When you do not have the right experience, taking on a massive room or intricate design can get overwhelming really quickly. If you don’t know how you’re going to do it, work on smaller projects or get help from a professional. It’s ok to know where you’re limits are, and sometimes less is more when things come to painting!
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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