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Breathe New Life Into Your Space with Paint
If you have just moved into a new home, getting the opportunity to decorate it in a way that reflects your personality can be a ton of fun! Painting is a cheap and easy way to do just that. But before you get started, consider these painting tips and tricks. Doing so will ensure that your paint job is professional looking and will be enduring.
Don’t Skip the Surface Prep
Adequate preparation is crucial for a successful paint job. Clean the surface thoroughly to remove dust, dirt, and grease. Repair any cracks or holes in the wall by filling them with spackle or putty and sanding them smooth. Ensure the surface is smooth and even before you begin painting.
Primer Is Essential
Primer helps create a smooth, uniform surface for the paint to adhere to. It also covers stains and helps the paint color appear more vibrant. Apply primer on bare surfaces, stained areas, or when transitioning between different paint types (e.g., oil-based to latex-based). Allow the primer to dry completely before applying the paint.
Know Your Sheens
Different paint sheens have different properties and are suitable for various areas of your home. Here is a quick guide to paint sheens.
Flat or matte: This finish has no shine and is great for hiding imperfections. It's commonly used in low-traffic areas like bedrooms and ceilings.
Satin or eggshell: These finishes have a subtle sheen and are more durable than flat/matte. They work well in high-traffic areas like living rooms and hallways.
Semi-gloss or gloss: These finishes have a shiny appearance and are highly durable. They are ideal for areas prone to moisture, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and trim work.
Select the Right Tools
Choosing the appropriate tools can make your painting job easier and yield better results. Consider the following:
Brushes: Use high-quality brushes with synthetic bristles for latex paint and natural bristles for oil-based paint. Different brush sizes are available for different areas.
Rollers: For larger surfaces, use rollers with the appropriate nap length. Shorter naps work better for smooth surfaces, while longer naps are ideal for textured surfaces.
Painter's tape: Use painter's tape to protect areas you don't want to paint, such as trim, windows, and baseboards. It ensures clean lines and minimizes mistakes.
Apply Paint in the Right Order
Start by cutting in with a brush around the edges and corners of the room, then use a roller for larger areas. Work in small sections and maintain a wet edge to avoid visible lines or brush marks. Apply multiple thin coats instead of one thick coat to achieve a more even finish.
Armed with these tips, you can work smarter, not harder. And the end result will look better too.
If you are still on the hunt for your dream home, why not take a look at our available homes? Or give us a call to see one of our Raymus homes in person!