Painting Tips & Tricks For Your Next Project

If you are like many people, after you've been living in your home for a while, you start to look for DIY projects. From small changes to big renovations, it can be fun to give your spaces an updated look. Before you get to knocking out walls, may we suggest starting with a small painting project to get you warmed up?

September 16, 2020 | Home

By: Addie A.

Addie has a wide range of personal insurance experience and with her position at Acuity, has been able to specialize in homeowners insurance. On top of her homeowners insurance knowledge, Addie has a good understanding of the insurance industry in general. She focuses on the consumer allowing her to play a key role in product development. Also, she is currently working towards an Associate in General Insurance designation. In her free time Addie spends time outdoors and enjoys playing and watching sports.

Author of Home Focus

Take your time picking out paint. From type to color, this is not a step you want to rush. While paint is generally an easy fix, taking some time to carefully evaluate your options will be worth your while.
- Not all paints are made the same, and brands can vary greatly. Be sure to look at reviews of different paint products and do your homework before buying tinted paint you likely won't be able to return.
- If you are painting over a vibrant or dark color, you might want to use a primer coat. These colors can be difficult to cover in one coat and can impact how your new color looks. While you could do multiple coats of paint, primer often comes with a lower price tag and can be tinted to ensure proper coverage if necessary. Be sure to ask your trusted paint expert about this.
- Be aware of all the finish options of paint, which range from flat to glossy in most brands. Some call it satin and some call it eggshell, but they are likely saying the same thing. Just be sure to do your homework and make sure you are going home with the level of shine you want. It is also important to think about the area you are repainting when making this decision.
Make sure you are using the right tools. Nothing will derail a painting project like not having the proper type of roller or paintbrush.
- We know there are a lot of options, but most paints tell you what thickness (or nap) you should use for your roller. Not only does that impact how much area a gallon of paint will cover, it can also play a big role in how well it covers. Too thin and you will likely be doing 2+ coats. Too thick and you could make a big mess or not have enough paint.
- There is also a right and wrong paintbrush for your project. Latex paints require different brushes than oil-based paints or stains. Since paintbrush quality will impact the result, try to avoid going too cheap.
- Many people like to use tape on the woodwork versus trying to freehand those tight spaces. Not all tape is meant for painting so carefully evaluate your options. Using the wrong tape could cause paint to bleed behind the tape and onto the woodwork. While woodwork can be cleaned, it adds another step to the project.
Once you have your paint and tools, preparation is key.
- If you are painting a high-traffic area, you might want to wash your walls and ensure they are free of dirt and dust. This will help avoid imperfections in your new paint and help it properly adhere to your walls.
- Make sure all furniture is covered or removed from the room to avoid paint splatters.
- Use drop cloths on your flooring to help contain drips. While we might think we are professionals, drips happen to everyone. Better on the drop cloth than your carpet.