Painting your home is the most cost-effective home upgrade you can think of. As a homeowner eager to refresh your walls, you might be tempted to dive right in. However, there are common painting mistakes that can turn your DIY project into a frustrating experience. Even the most well-intentioned DIY enthusiasts can make errors, too.
So, let’s highlight these common painting mistakes so you don’t fall victim.
1. Skipping the Prep Work
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is skipping or rushing through the prep work. You might think, “I just want to get to the fun part—painting!” However neglecting proper preparation can lead to a host of problems, including uneven surfaces, peeling paint, and poor adhesion.
Before you even open a can of paint, take the time to prep your walls properly. This means cleaning the surfaces to remove dust, dirt, and grease, which can prevent paint from adhering properly. Fill in any holes or cracks with spackle and sand the surface to ensure it’s smooth.
2. Using the Wrong Type of Paint
Not all paint is created equal, and using the wrong type can lead to disappointing results. For example, interior paints are not designed to be durable outdoors. Conversely, using exterior paint indoors can be harmful and may lead to dizziness, headaches, and eye irritation. That’s because exterior paint is formulated with chemicals to withstand the elements—sun, rain, and wind. These chemicals can emit fumes that simply blow away when used outside but linger when applied indoors.
To avoid that, always check the paint type before buying or using it. It’s also helpful to know what to do if exterior paint was used indoors by mistake.
3. Applying Paint Too Thickly
In the rush to get the job done, many homeowners apply paint too thickly, thinking it will reduce the number of coats required. However, thick coats are more likely to drip, take longer to dry, and can result in an uneven texture that doesn’t look professional.
It’s better to apply multiple thin layers than to try and cover everything in one heavy coat. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next one. This approach not only gives you a smoother finish but also ensures that the paint adheres properly, reducing the chances of peeling and bubbling down the road.
4. Random Brush Strokes
While it might feel natural to paint in whichever direction feels easiest, inconsistent strokes can lead to a finish that looks streaky or uneven, especially with certain types of paint.
When using a brush, follow the grain of the surface you’re painting or apply the paint in a uniform direction—either all horizontal or all vertical strokes. For example, on doors or wooden panels, follow the direction of the wood grain to achieve a smoother, more professional finish.
5. Painting in the Wrong Temperature
Temperature plays a significant role in how paint adheres to surfaces and how it dries. Painting in temperatures that are too high or too low can lead to issues like paint not drying properly, cracking, or peeling soon after application.
Ideally, you should paint when the temperature is between 50°F and 85°F (10°C and 30°C). Avoid painting on extremely humid days, as high moisture levels can slow drying time and affect the paint’s finish.
6. Using the Same Roller Cover for Different Types of Paint
Reusing a roller cover for different types of paint (e.g., from latex to oil-based) can lead to contamination and poor application. The remaining paint in the roller can mix with the new paint, affecting its consistency and finish.
Always use a clean roller cover for each type of paint. Even if you thoroughly wash the roller, residues from the previous paint can still affect the new coat.
7. Rushing the Job
Whether it’s not allowing enough time for coats to dry or trying to paint an entire room in one day, rushing can compromise the quality of your work. Applying a second coat before the first one is fully dry can cause the paint to lift, create streaks, or even result in a texture you didn’t intend.
Rushing through taping or skipping it altogether can leave you with a sloppy finish around trim, fixtures, and ceilings. Furthermore, give each coat of paint ample time to dry before applying the next one. This patience pays off in the form of a smoother, more professional-looking finish that you’ll be proud of.
Conclusion
By being aware of these less obvious painting mistakes, you can confidently approach your project and avoid the pitfalls that could ruin your hard work. Never be in too much haste; a little extra time and effort upfront can save you from headaches down the road and result in a space that you’ll enjoy for years to come.