Don’ts:
- Skip surface preparation: Neglecting to prepare the surface can result in poor adhesion and an uneven finish.
- Use cheap, low-quality paint: Cheap paint may save money in the short-term, but it will not last as long and will not provide good coverage.
- Paint in direct sunlight: Painting in direct sunlight can cause the paint to dry too quickly and result in an uneven finish.
- Apply paint too thickly: Too much paint can take longer to dry, and may also result in drips and sags.
- Overlap wet paint: Overlapping wet paint can cause streaking and an uneven finish.
- Neglect to wear protective gear: Paint fumes can be harmful to your health, so make sure to wear a mask and gloves when painting.
Misconceptions:
- Darker colors require more coats: The number of coats needed depends on the color and the quality of the paint, not the darkness of the color.
- Paint dries to the same color it looks when wet: Paint often dries to a slightly different shade than it appears when wet, so it’s important to test the color on a small area first.
- Latex paint is always water-based: While most latex paints are water-based, some are oil-based, so be sure to check the label before purchasing.
- Paint can hide all imperfections: Paint can help improve the look of a surface, but it cannot hide all imperfections. In some cases, it may be necessary to make repairs to the surface before painting.
Do’s:
- Prepare the surface to be painted: Clean the walls, remove any old paint, sand rough areas, and fill any cracks or holes with spackling compound.
- Use high-quality paint and primer: Invest in good paint, as it will last longer and provide better coverage.
- Use the right tools: A high-quality brush and roller can make a big difference in the final result.
- Apply paint in thin, even coats: It’s better to apply several thin coats than one thick coat, as this will help the paint dry evenly.
- Let each coat dry thoroughly: Before applying the next coat, make sure the previous one has dried completely.
- Clean up after painting: Clean all brushes, rollers, and other tools thoroughly and dispose of any excess paint properly.