How to Paint Your Walls Like a Professional

One of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to improve the aesthetics of your home is by painting. A fresh coat of paint increases the value of your property. Plus, you can save money by painting the rooms yourself. Here are tips on how to paint your walls like a professional.

Wait for the Right Weather to Paint Your Walls

When you set out to tackle a painting project, it’s essential to get the timing right. Painting on a rainy day means the paint will take a long time to dry, and the final results may appear streaked. If you must paint during humid weather, use a slow-drying product that permits time to fix mistakes before applying another coat.

Since moisture makes paint drip, most professionals prefer painting during dry weather. The paint adheres to the walls properly and dries quickly.

Make Preparations Before You Paint Your Walls

Preparing to paint involves two steps. First, move furniture out of the room to make space around the walls. When the area is cluttered, the furniture will block your access to the walls and trim. Also, you could spill paint on belongings left in the room.

If heavy items cannot be removed from the space, move them to the center of the room. Cover these things with plastic sheeting. Remove decorations from the walls, including clocks, shelves, and artwork.

The next step in preparation involves inspecting the walls for flaking, holes, and cracks. Apply a spackle compound to fill gaps, cracks, and holes, and sand it smooth before applying paint.

Invest in Quality Paint and Accessories

Glossy paints are washable and more stain-resistant than other types, making them great for kids’ rooms, hallways, baths, and kitchens. Flat paints are suitable for formal rooms and ceilings.

Experts recommend using two coats of paint for the best results. Invest in good roller covers and brushes to save time on paint application. Use high-quality painter’s tape to mask areas, sealing out blurs and splatters.

Paint From Top to Bottom

Paint containing a primer will work well on a clean and smooth wall. However, apply a separate primer coat if there are patched areas, the current paint is a dark color, or if the wall is stained.

Use a roller to apply paint after cutting in the edges at the baseboard and ceiling with a brush. If you are painting for the first time, expect drips and spatters. Paint over your mistakes and work your way from top to bottom, down the wall. Do not revisit an area once the paint has started to dry. Painting over this area will result in streaks and marks on the paint surface.

Attic to Foundation Home Inspections offers home inspection services to the greater Atlanta area. If you’re buying or selling a home, contact us to request an inspection.