Buzz
Photo Credit: John BesslerAre you tackling an interior paint job and struggling with how to reach those high ceilings? Or perhaps you're curious about the best way to remove painter's tape? While pro painters often prefer you leave the task to them, we managed to coax some insider tips from the best in the business.
These experts shared their methods for tackling these challenges and revealed even more tricks to help you achieve a perfect paint job—all on your own. If you're determined to do it yourself, check out their advice. Otherwise, you might want to think about hiring a professional.
1. Utilize an Extension Pole
The cost of painting tools can quickly add up, but don't be tempted to cut corners by skipping this crucial item.
"A lot of people think extension poles are just for reaching high areas, but if you're dealing with a large wall space, an extension pole is absolutely necessary," says Nicole Gibbons, founder of Clare Paint. "It offers more leverage, so you won’t have to bend down repeatedly to reload your roller, which helps reduce strain on your arms and back."
The typical extension pole is a two-foot extendable roller, but you might want an even longer one if you're working with particularly high ceilings. Another reason to use an extension pole: "With better leverage and less strain, you'll be able to paint faster and more effectively," says Gibbons.
2. Shield Doorknobs
While you're sure to cover doors and baseboards with painter's tape, pro painters go the extra mile by covering every doorknob. How do they protect them from splatters and drips?
"Cover your doorknobs with a small plastic bag," suggests Mike Mundwiller, Field Integration Manager at Benjamin Moore. "Then tape the edges to keep the paint where it belongs."
3. Select the Right Brush
Don't cut corners when picking your paintbrush. Opt for a reliable brand like Wooster, Purdy, or Benjamin Moore. "Investing in a high-quality brush is the first step to achieving a pro-grade finish," says expert painter Brian Bedenbaugh. "Expect to spend around $20-$25 on your brush."
The ideal brush size and material will depend on the task at hand. "For exterior jobs, stick with synthetic or polyester brushes, and for interiors, use soft nylon," advises Bedenbaugh.
"The smaller the brush, the more control you have, but using one that’s too small can extend the job." For trim work and cutting in, choose a 2 ½-inch angled brush.
4. Remember to Caulk
Before you start painting, grab the caulk gun. "Don’t forget to caulk around the trim, crown molding, windows, and door frames," advises Rick Watson, director of product information at Sherwin-Williams. "This step enhances your trim and wall finishes, making them look like a professional took extra care in their work."
Additionally, caulking can help reduce your heating and cooling costs. "It can prevent cold air and drafts from seeping into the room," says Watson. Be sure to caulk before painting, especially if you’re using contrasting trim.
5. Use a Box Cutter to Remove Painter's Tape
Painter's tape is there to protect your work, not ruin it. But be careful: "Latex paint can stretch like elastic before it fully dries, so when removing the painter's tape from your floor or door trim, ensure you don’t pull off the paint with it and ruin your perfect finish," warns Anne Treutel, Sr. Product Manager at Valspar.
Her solution to avoid this? "Simply use a retractable utility blade or box cutter to score the edge where the tape meets the wall, ensuring a clean line when you remove the tape," says Treutel.
6. Store Your Roller in the Fridge
Large painting projects can span several days, and you don’t want your brush and roller to harden overnight.
"If you’re taking a break for the night but will be painting again in the morning, keep your brush and roller from drying out by wrapping them tightly in a plastic shopping bag, securing it with a rubber band, and storing them in the fridge (not the freezer)," says Lou Manfredini, Home Expert at Ace Hardware.
(You can also wrap rollers in aluminum foil or plastic wrap.) "In the morning," Manfredini advises, "take them out of the fridge and get back to painting!" When you’re done, be sure to clean your rollers thoroughly so they’re ready to use again.
7. Try the "W" Method
If you paint a wall in a straight vertical line, you risk painting over the area you've already covered, which could lift off the fresh paint. How to avoid this? "Many pros swear by the W method," says Jessica Barr, Behr National Sales & Development Trainer.
This paint-saving technique is exactly as it sounds. "When painting a room, roll the paint onto the wall in a W shape, then fill in the W by painting around and inside it to form a square. Repeat this process until the wall is fully covered," Barr explains.
"Each W should be about arm's length in size, with strokes of at least 12 inches or longer, to ensure the paint is spread evenly for a flawless, professional finish. Don’t forget to reload your roller before starting the next W section," she advises.
8. Keep a Wet Rag in Your Back Pocket
At some point during the job, paint is bound to drip or splatter onto something that shouldn't be painted (like your clothes). That’s why professional painters are always ready for these mishaps.
"When paint splatters onto your trim, grab your nearest wet rag," says Jenny Burroughs, senior product marketing manager at PPG. "Using a wet rag is much more effective at removing the paint than a dry cloth or paper towel."
And if paint ends up on your window panes, Burroughs has a solution: "Use a razor blade to carefully scrape off any unwanted paint from the windows."
