How to avoid the 7 most common mistakes people make when painting their home

Well done for choosing to wise up before tackling a DIY paint job at your home or investment property. This list of common mistakes, made by thousands of Aussies, can turn a humble home upgrade into a costly and stressful experience. Take note, so that you can avoid a disastrous paint job.   [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="690"] If you are going to spend the time and effort painting your interior walls, it is worthwhile carefully selecting a suitable paint colour.[/caption]

Mistake #1 – Lack of preparation

If you are like most DIY painters, you’ll rush through the preparation stage to allow for maximum paint time. Whether you need to get the job done quickly before putting your property on the market, or you are dedicating your Christmas holidays to a much-needed home upgrade, preparing well is extremely important. Here are a few simple but really important tips:

• Clear out as much furniture from the room as possible
• Clean walls thoroughly with a towel, vacuum, and cleaning agents in wet areas to ensure no mould spurs will linger
• Scrape away peels and cracks from the walls
• Apply proper painters tape to wall frames and edges
• Cover all floors and hallways with plastic or drop sheets
• Clear your schedule to allow for a dedicated, complete job
• Choose appropriate painting attire; ideally clothes and shoes that you won’t mind discarding

Mistake #2 - Choosing the wrong paint type

Unfortunately, there’s no such thing as a universal paint type to suit the conditions of every room in the home. Kitchens require standard interior wall paints with a satin or greater sheen to allow for easy cleaning. Similarly, bathrooms require a satin or high gloss sheen paint for withstanding moist conditions. Freshly painted ceilings can instantly uplift your space if the right paint is applied. Choose a flat white sheen for the best result. For cabinetry, both oil and acrylic latex paints are available. Selecting the best cabinet paint should be discussed with a paint supply professional. Eco paints are worth looking at if you prefer to use environmentally friendly products.

Mistake # 3 - Choosing the wrong paint colour

If you are going to spend the time and effort painting your interior walls, it is worthwhile carefully selecting a suitable paint colour. Light, neutral tones are always recommended for brightening up a room. Older style apartments and homes can be brought to life instantly with a fresh shade of white paint. Don’t be shy to ask your local paint colour consultant for their valuable advice on trending paint shades. Colours can look different on your walls than on paint swatches, so going one shade lighter is a good option in many cases. Getting the paint colour right first go, will save you time and money.   [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="690"] Starting from the ceiling is ideal, as paint runs downwards, and any drips can be fixed as you go. Image courtesy One Day Paint[/caption]

Mistake #4 – Buying cheap paint brushes and rollers

Good quality paint will get you nowhere without the right tools to apply it! With professional brushes, you will achieve a smoother finish and use less paint.

Mistake #5 – Forgoing primer

Unless the walls you are painting are in pristine condition, you must use a quality wall primer prior to painting. All-in-one paint and primers are suitable for some less damaged wall types. It is best to ask an expert about your particular property’s needs.

Mistake #6 – Painting with no plan

Rather than delving straight in, you should have a clear idea in mind about how the paint job will run; section by section. Starting from the ceiling is ideal, as paint runs downwards, and any drips can be fixed as you go. Most importantly, do not remove tape until the paint is completely dry!

Mistake #7 – Careless clean up

Finish your painting project like a pro by cleaning your brushes thoroughly, covering them in plastic wrap and storing them neatly in their original covers. Paint lid edges should be wiped free of paint for proper sealing. [alert style="alert-at-home-inverse" dismissible="false"]

Do you have any painting tips you’d like to share with HomeHub’s readers?

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