Common interior painting mistakes and how to avoid them

Interior painting is a cost-effective means of refreshing and transforming your living spaces. However, even a tiny mistake can detract from the final result, leading to frustration and extra costs.

Understanding common interior painting mistakes and knowing how to avoid them can help you achieve a professional-looking finish. This article will explore the most frequent painting errors and provide practical advice on ensuring your painting project succeeds. Let's dive in!

Skipping surface preparation

One of the most common and significant mistakes in interior painting is skipping proper surface preparation. Preparing the surface is crucial for ensuring the paint adheres well and the paint's finish is smooth and even.

• Cleaning: Before you begin painting, it's essential to clean the walls to remove dust, dirt, grease, and any other contaminants. This can be accomplished by making use of a mild detergent and water. Failure to clean the surfaces can lead to paint not adhering properly, resulting in a patchy and uneven finish.
• Sanding: Sanding the walls helps smooth out imperfections, such as bumps, cracks, or old paint drips. It also provides a slightly rough texture for the new paint to adhere to, which is especially important if the surface is glossy.
• Priming: Primer acts as a base coat that helps the paint stick better to the surface and provides a uniform appearance. It's essential when painting over dark colours, raw wood, or porous surfaces. Skipping primer can result in uneven colour and a less durable finish.
  

Using the incorrect type of paint

Picking the correct paint type is essential for achieving the desired finish and ensuring durability. Different paints are formulated for specific surfaces and conditions; using the right kind can produce better results.

• Latex vs. Oil-based Paint: Latex (water-based) paint is the most common choice for interior walls because it dries quickly, has low VOCs (volatile organic compounds), and is easy to clean with soap and water. Oil-based paint, while more durable and better for trim and high-traffic areas, takes longer to dry and requires mineral spirits for cleanup.
• Surface Considerations: Different surfaces may require specific types of paint. For example, bathrooms and kitchens benefit from moisture-resistant paint to prevent mould and mildew. High-traffic areas might need a more durable, scrubbable paint finish like semi-gloss or satin.
• Colour and Finish: The paint's finish (e.g., matte, eggshell, satin, semi-gloss, gloss) affects both the painted surface's appearance and functionality. Matte finishes hide imperfections but are less durable, while gloss finishes are highly durable and easy to clean but can highlight imperfections.
  

Ignoring the importance of primer

Primer is critical to achieving a smooth, even, and long-lasting paint finish. Many people skip this step, leading to subpar results.

• Even Colour: Primer provides a uniform base that helps the topcoat adhere better and ensures an even colour across the entire surface. This is especially important when painting over dark or vibrant colours with lighter shades.
• Durability: Using a primer increases the paint job's durability by providing a stable base. It helps the paint adhere better and resist peeling, cracking, and blistering over time.
• Special Conditions: Certain surfaces, like new drywall, bare wood, or surfaces with stains, require a primer to seal the surface and prevent issues such as bleed-through. Primer is also essential when transitioning between different types of paint (e.g., oil-based to latex).
  

Note: Skipping primer can result in an uneven finish that wears down quickly, necessitating more frequent repaints.

Applying uneven coats

One of the most common issues in interior painting is applying uneven coats, which results in streaks, patches, and an overall unprofessional appearance. Utilising the correct techniques and tools is essential to achieving a smooth, even finish.

• Correct Brush and Roller Techniques: When using a brush, dip it only about a third of the way into the paint to avoid overloading it. Tap off any leftover paint on the side of the can. Use long, smooth strokes to spread the paint evenly. When using a roller, roll it back and forth on a roller tray to distribute the paint evenly before applying it to the wall. Start with a "W" or "M" pattern and fill it in with horizontal and vertical strokes to ensure even coverage.
• Multiple Thin Coats: Instead of covering the surface in one thick coat, apply multiple thin coats. This approach to painting allows each layer to dry properly and adhere better, producing a smoother, more durable finish. Thin coats also help avoid drips and runs, typical when too much paint is applied simultaneously.
• Maintain A Wet Edge: To safeguard against lap marks, maintain a wet edge while painting. This means overlapping the previously painted area slightly while the paint is still wet. This painting technique helps to blend the edges and create a seamless finish.
• Consistent Pressure: Apply consistent pressure when using a roller or brush. Uneven pressure can result in an inconsistent finish. Rollers should be rolled evenly without pressing too hard, while brushes should be used with gentle, even strokes.
  

Overloading the brush or roller

Too much paint on your brush or roller can lead to several problems, including drips, runs, and an uneven finish. Proper loading techniques are crucial for a smooth and professional result.

• Brush Loading: Dip the brush only a third of the way into the paint and gently tap off any excess on the side of the can. This method ensures that the brush holds enough paint to cover the surface without overloading it, which can cause drips and an uneven application.
• Roller Loading: Pour a small amount of paint into a roller tray and roll the paint roller back and forth until the surface is evenly coated. Avoid submerging the roller in the paint, which can cause excess paint to drip and create a mess. The roller should be evenly coated but not dripping.
• Proper Technique: When applying paint, use long, even strokes with a brush and smooth, even passes with a roller. Start with a light touch and gradually increase pressure to distribute the paint evenly. If you notice drips or runs, use a dry brush or roller to smooth them out before they dry.
• Reapplying Paint: If the brush or roller starts to run dry, reload it with paint following the same careful technique. Avoid stretching the paint too far, resulting in a patchy finish.
  

Not allowing enough drying time

Allowing each coat of paint to dry before applying the next is crucial to achieving a smooth, durable finish. Rushing the drying process could lead to several issues, including streaks, peeling, and an uneven appearance.

• Follow Manufacturer's Guidelines: Always follow the drying time recommendations provided by the paint manufacturer. These guidelines are based on the paint's specific formulation and consider factors like humidity and temperature.
• Touch Test: Before applying the next coat, use the touch test to ensure the paint is dry. Lightly touch an inconspicuous area of the painted surface. If it feels dry to the touch and doesn't transfer any paint to your finger, it's ready for the next coat.
• Environmental Conditions: Temperature and humidity can significantly affect drying times. Paint dries more slowly in high humidity and cooler temperatures. If possible, paint in conditions within the recommended range the manufacturer provides, typically between 10-30°C (50-85°F) with moderate humidity.
• Ventilation: Proper ventilation helps paint dry more quickly and evenly. Open windows and use fans to circulate air in the room. However, avoid direct drafts on the painted surface, as they can lead the paint to dry too quickly, resulting in an uneven finish.
  

Painting in unfavourable conditions

Painting in unfavourable conditions can significantly affect the quality and durability of your paint job. Indoor temperature and humidity are critical factors to consider for optimal paint application and drying.

• Temperature: Extreme temperatures can impact how paint adheres and dries. Painting in icy conditions (below 10°C or 50°F) can cause the paint to thicken, making it difficult to apply smoothly. In contrast, painting in scorching conditions (above 30°C or 85°F) can cause the paint to dry too quickly, leading to visible brush strokes and an uneven finish. Ideally, paint when the temperature is between 15°C and 25°C (59°F to 77°F) for the best results.
• Humidity: High humidity levels (above 70%) can prolong drying times and lead to issues like dripping and sagging. On the other hand, very low humidity can lead the paint to dry too quickly, resulting in a patchy finish. The optimal humidity level for painting is between 40% and 50%. If painting in a humid climate, consider using a dehumidifier or air conditioning to create a more controlled environment.
• Ventilation: Proper indoor ventilation helps regulate temperature and humidity while dispersing paint fumes. Ensure the painting area is well-ventilated by opening windows and doors or using fans. However, avoid direct drafts on the painted surface, which can cause uneven drying.
• Timing: Plan your painting project during a time of year when the weather is stable and within the ideal temperature and humidity range. Avoid painting during rainy or extremely windy days, as these conditions can introduce moisture and dust into your fresh paint.
  

Neglecting to use painter's tape

Using painter's tape is crucial for achieving clean edges and protecting surfaces that shouldn't be painted. Skipping this step can result in messy, uneven lines and accidental paint splatters.

• Clean Edges: Painter's tape helps create sharp, clean edges between different colours or surfaces, such as where the wall joins the ceiling, trim, or windows. This tape is designed to adhere well without damaging the underlying surface or leaving residue when removed.
• Surface Protection: Apply painter's tape to cover areas you don't want to paint, such as trim, baseboards, and fixtures. This prevents accidental splatters and drips from ruining other surfaces and saves time on touch-ups.
• Application Tips: To apply painter's tape effectively, start with a clean, dry surface to ensure good adhesion. Press the tape down firmly along the edge to create a seal that prevents the paint from bleeding underneath. Peel off the painter's tape before the paint has had a chance to fully dry to avoid peeling off the dried paint along with the tape.
• Specialised Tapes: Different types of painter's tape are designed for specific surfaces and tasks. For instance, delicate surface tape is ideal for freshly painted or wallpapered areas, while multi-surface tape works well on wood, glass, and metal.
  

Skipping cleanup and maintenance

Proper cleanup and maintenance are essential for extending the life of your painting tools and ensuring a lasting, professional-looking finish on your walls.

• Cleaning Brushes and Rollers: Immediately after painting, clean your brushes and rollers thoroughly to remove all traces of paint. For water-based paints, use warm, soapy water. For oil-based paints, use the appropriate solvent, such as mineral spirits. Rinse the tools until the water or solvent runs clear, and then shape the bristles or roller naps back to their original form.
• Storing Tools: Allow the cleaned brushes and rollers to dry completely before storing them. Store brushes by hanging them or laying them flat to maintain their shape. Rollers should be stored to prevent the nap from being compressed or deformed.
• Maintaining Painted Surfaces: Regularly maintaining painted surfaces helps keep them looking fresh and new. Dust and clean walls periodically using a soft cloth or a gentle vacuum brush attachment. Utilise a mild detergent and water for tougher stains or marks, and do not scrub too hard and damage the paint.
• Touch-ups: Keep some leftover paint for touch-ups in case of small chips or scratches. Store your chosen paint in a cool, dry place, and label it with the room and paint colour for easy identification. When doing touch-ups, use a small brush and feather the edges to blend the new coat of paint with the old.
  

Seek help from a professional 

Consulting a professional painter can ensure your interior painting project is executed flawlessly, from surface preparation to final touch-ups. Their professionalism and expertise can help you avoid common mistakes, saving you time, effort, and unwanted additional costs.