There is a certain appeal that comes with DIY painting. There is an aura of romanticism about going to the store and choosing your paint, gathering all of the materials, and putting the work in to change the look of a room. When it comes time to actually do it yourself, though, the charm can fade quickly. There are a lot of ways things can go wrong and a lot of things you might not know.

In this article, we’ll discuss the three main mistakes people make when painting their homes on their own. Hopefully, you’ll think twice before taking on a painting project on your own. We’ll also provide you with resources that can get the project done on their own. Let’s dive in!

Mistake #1: You’re Not Properly Preparing the Area

Properly preparing the area will save you time and money in the long run. Make sure you cover your floors, move your furniture, and apply painters tape where needed. You may also want to make a checklist of all of the items you need, such as paint rollers, a ladder, and extra brushes. You don’t want to have to run outside to grab more materials right in the middle of your paint job!

You’ll also want to wash your walls before starting. You don’t want to paint on a wall that has dust, dirt, or other grime on it. Repair any cracks, gaps, and other imperfections before starting as well.

Mistake #2: You’re Painting at the Wrong Time

It is not always the right time to paint your house. Before you buy your paint cans, pull out your weather widget on your phone and check the temperature and humidity levels. High humidity can slow down drying time for water-based paints. If it is too cold, you might end up with lumps and other inconsistencies.

If you need to paint at a time with less-than-ideal weather, there are ways to work around it. Since there are so many variables, you’ll want to consult a professional. They can give you recommendations for what type of paint to use and how to work around the weather.

Mistake #3: You’re Using the Wrong Materials

Last but not least, check what materials you are using. Cheap brushes just aren’t going to do the job most of the time. Make sure you’re using a roller, and make sure your roller goes well with your project.

This mistake also applies to cleaning materials. You don’t want to use any strong cleaning products, such as Magic Erasers. This can rub paint off the walls. Instead, use a damp washcloth. If you need more, stick to diluted dish soap.

Do it Right With CertaPro Painters

If you want to skip the hassle that comes with DIY, you’ll want to hire the professionals. CertaPro Painters® of Springfield, VA are professional commercial and residential painters that can help with any project. To start, just fill out our online form for a free estimate or give our office a call! We look forward to meeting with you!