Common Mistakes to Avoid When Interior Painting

Interior painting is a great way to update the look of any room in your home. It’s relatively inexpensive and can be completed fairly quickly. However, many people make mistakes when they attempt to paint their own interiors, leaving them with a less than satisfactory result and a longer project than they had planned. To ensure a successful painting project, it’s important to be aware of the most common mistakes people make when interior painting.

Common Mistakes People Make When Interior Painting

Not Estimating Enough Time for the Job

Interior painting projects often take longer than expected, and it’s easy to get frustrated if you don’t allow enough time for the job. If you’re doing the job yourself, make sure to factor in time for preparation and clean-up in addition to the actual painting.

Neglecting to Prep the Space

Prepping the space is one of the most important steps in interior painting. This includes removing furniture, covering items that can’t be moved, and cleaning the walls. Without proper prep, the paint job will not have a good finish.

Skipping the Tape

Taping off the trim and other areas you don’t want painted is essential for a professional finish. If you skip this step, you’ll end up with paint where you don’t want it.

Unintentionally Making a Mess

Interior painting can be messy, so make sure to cover the floor and any furniture with drop cloths. Also, be sure to use a good quality brush and roller that won’t leave lint or streaks behind.

Using Low-Quality Materials

Using low-quality materials such as brushes, rollers, and paint can lead to a poor finish and an uneven coat of paint. Be sure to invest in good quality materials to ensure a professional looking result.

Choosing the Wrong Color

Choosing the wrong color for your interior can be a costly mistake. Before you buy paint, be sure to test the colors in the room you’re painting to make sure it’s the right one for the space.

Not Testing Paint Colors in the Room You’re Painting

It’s important to test paint colors in the room you’re painting to make sure it’s the right color for the space. To test the colors, use a small sample board or an inexpensive roller and apply the paint to the wall.

Using the Wrong Type of Paint

Different types of paint are designed for different surfaces, so be sure to choose the right type of paint for the surface you’re painting. For example, oil-based paint is better for wood and metal surfaces while latex paint is best for walls.

Forgetting Primer

Primer is an essential part of the painting process and should not be skipped. It helps the paint adhere better to the surface and also helps to block out any stains or discoloration.

Painting Over Glossy Paint

If you’re painting over a glossy paint, it’s important to use a primer before you paint. Otherwise, the paint won’t adhere properly and the finish won’t look good.

Painting in Poor Lighting

It’s important to paint in good lighting so that you can see the color of the paint and make sure it’s even. If you’re painting in a room with poor lighting, you may end up with an uneven finish.

Painting Large Spaces First, Instead of Edges

When painting a room, it’s important to start with the edges and trim first and then move to the larger spaces. Starting with the edges ensures a good finish and helps to prevent any drips or runs.

Not Doing Touchups

Once you’ve finished painting the room, be sure to go back and do any necessary touchups. This will help to ensure a professional looking finish.

Not Keeping Touch-up Paint

Once you’ve completed the painting project, be sure to keep the leftover paint for any touch-ups that may be needed in the future.

Not Cleaning Your Tools Appropriately

Cleaning your tools appropriately is essential for a successful interior painting project. Paint brushes and rollers should be cleaned thoroughly after each use to ensure they last and don’t leave streaks or lint behind.

Conclusion

Interior painting can be a great way to update the look of any room in your home. However, it’s important to be aware of the common mistakes people make when interior painting. By following the tips above, you can ensure a successful interior painting project.