Correct methods for painting

Painting your own home is a relatively simple though time consuming DIY job, but there are a few considerations if you want to achieve a good result. Using correct tools and techniques for painting your home is incredibly important to getting a good and lasting result.

Correct painting methods for your home

Using the correct technique for painting your home will give you the best results, both in terms of the finish you get and for the longevity of the paint work. Follow these steps for the best results.

• Choose your paint carefully, based not only on the colour and effect you want, but also on the right type for the application. In general, matt paint is best suited to inside cupboards and other less seen applications as it is not easy to clean and ‘feels unfinished'. Choose semi gloss paints like eggshell or satin for most wall and room interiors, and gloss for bathrooms, kitchens, trims and doors
• Select good quality brushes, rollers, sponges or other appliers. Using cheap brushes will result in a coarse finish with brush hairs stuck in it - not generally the desired look! A medium length dense bristle brush is suitable for most interior applications using acrylic paint. Use a longer bristle for oil paints, undercoats and primers
• Clear the walls of any art, wall hangings or curtains. Assess walls for any holes, scratches or other type of damage that will need repairing before you paint
• Clear the room of furniture and rugs, and vacuum thoroughly to remove any dust that may otherwise end up being incorporated into the paintwork. Furniture can be herded onto the centre of the room and covered with drop sheets, but remove fragile items entirely
• Remove fittings like door handles, curtain rails, latches, locks and picture hooks
• Complete any repairs that will be needed before painting
• Tape the edges of windows, skirting boards, electrical switches, heaters and air conditioners to avoid painting them
• Use a roller in short zigzag style strokes to cover walls, or a wide medium length dense bristle brush
• Use narrower dense bristle brushes for trim and details
• Never try to apply one thick coat instead of several thinner ones. The result will be lumpy, and unlikely to dry properly. The job takes as long as it takes, and paint requires warmth to dry. Gloss paints may take more coats than matt ones

Following this sequence should result in a good quality paint job. However, painting is time consuming and the result depends on taking care, so if it all seems a little much, consider hiring a professional painter. For highest quality, they should be a member of Master Painters Australia

Correct painting methods

Using the correct approach to painting your home will yield the best results. Take the time to plan, repair any holes, gaps or cracks, protect the rest of the room, and use quality instruments and paint, and you should be pleased with a great looking result that will be attractive for years to come.