Buzz
Photo: goir / Getty ImagesWhen it comes to home design, few changes are as impactful as a fresh coat of paint. The right shade can completely transform a room, enhancing light, boosting creativity, or creating a peaceful atmosphere. Paint is also one of the most accessible DIY projects, but the outcome often depends on how well you prepare. By avoiding common painting errors, you can ensure professional-looking results.
That's why we're here to help. To guide you through your next painting project like a seasoned expert, we consulted top professionals in the field to highlight the most frequent mistakes people make—and how to avoid them. From the surprising effects of temperature on paint colors to the crucial prep work that pays off, these expert tips will help you achieve a polished, inspiring space that exceeds your expectations.
Skipping on Preparation and Supplies
Nicole Gibbons, founder and CEO of Clare, emphasizes, "The right painting tools and proper prep are the winning combo for a perfect paint job." This typically involves taping off trim, baseboards, and doorways, applying the right primer, and taking the time to repair, patch, and clean your walls. Although this may take a little more time upfront, Gibbons assures, "If done right, the rest of your paint job will be a breeze."
Neglecting to Sample Colors First
"Color is so nuanced—the only way to be sure you’ll love the color in your home is to try before you buy," says Gibbons. Brands like Clare and Samplize offer peel-and-stick color swatches that allow you to test before committing, or you can grab sample pots at your local hardware store to see how the hue appears in your space. Gibbons advises, "Before applying your paint swatch, compare it with your furniture and other decor to ensure it complements the entire room."
Ignoring the Impact of Temperature
You might not realize it, but temperature plays a significant role when painting indoors. Just like painting the exterior of your home, it’s crucial to maintain an optimal temperature indoors, especially during touch-ups. Mike Mundwiller, a product experience expert at Benjamin Moore, advises, "When doing paint touch-ups on a space, you want to mimic as much about the original paint session as possible. Ensure the room temperature is within 20 degrees Fahrenheit of the original when the paint was first applied. Variations in temperature can affect the color development of acrylic (latex) paints, potentially resulting in a mismatched appearance."
Using Too Much Paint on Touch-Ups
Natalie Ebel, co-founder and creative director at Backdrop, says, "The secret to great touch-ups is ensuring the new paint blends perfectly with the existing color and finish. It’s essential to use the same paint color, brand, and finish." Backdrop's touch-up kit includes a half gallon of paint, a brush for feathering, and a paint pail. She explains, "Feathering the edges with a small brush helps to seamlessly blend the new coat, preventing noticeable differences."
Choosing a Poor-Quality Roller
A high-quality roller cover, alongside premium paint, is key to achieving the best results in your room. Opt for the best roller your budget allows and ask an expert at the paint counter to match your roller to your surface type and the finish you’re using. As Gibbons points out, "Low-quality roller covers shed fibers, leaving fuzzy lint that can ruin your finish. Cheap rollers also have weak inner cores that break down when they contact paint, causing the roller to slip off, slowing you down and creating unnecessary frustration."
Neglecting the Room’s Lighting
Gibbons advises, "When selecting paint colors, it’s crucial to consider how the light in your space will influence how the color looks." Factors like the amount of natural light, the direction it comes from, and the time of day can all affect how color is perceived. She recommends ensuring you love your color both in daylight and in the evening, when the sun has set and artificial lights are on in your home.
