Painting is a great way to make your home feel fresh and updated, especially when you need to do it quickly. But before you start a paint project, you should know the right techniques and materials to use so that the process goes smoothly.
Interior paints are formulated to resist staining, scrub easily, and allow cleaning without fading. They also need to be low in volatile organic compounds, which help keep the air quality in your home clean and healthy.
The key to a successful paint job is to prepare the surface before you begin applying the first coat. That means washing the walls, removing wallpaper and other tackiness, patching holes and cracks, sealing stains and dry and sanding them down before you apply your first layer of paint.
In addition to this, you should make sure the paint you’re using is a good quality product. A lower-quality paint could require more coats to get the same coverage as a higher-quality one, which will cost you extra in the long run.
When buying your supplies, choose a variety of colors and a good brand. You can even go with an all-in-one package for a lot less than buying separate bottles of each color.
If you plan to do a lot of painting yourself, consider getting a set of brushes and rollers that will give you a flawless finish every time. They also make it easier to cover larger areas in a short amount of time.
You might also consider a brush with a curved tip for better control. You can buy these online or in your local home-supply store. They can be a bit more expensive than regular brushes, but they’re worth the investment.
A set of latex gloves is a must for protecting your hands while you’re painting, but you may want to go with a different type if you have allergies or are sensitive to latex. If you’re not a fan of latex, consider purchasing a nitrile glove or reusable painter’s masks to protect your hands.
Another essential tool is masking tape, which comes in a wide range of sizes to suit your needs. You can even find a low-stick version that click here won’t peel off primer or existing paint when you remove it.
Then, start by calculating the area of each wall you’ll be painting. You’ll need to account for doors and windows.
For example, if a wall has two or three windows and a door, multiply the lengths of each window and door by the width to estimate how much the overall surface will be. If there are multiple sliding doors, a fireplace or other nonpainted surfaces, you’ll need to subtract these from your figure as well.
Once you’ve calculated the total square footage, you can start figuring out how many gallons of paint you’ll need to get the look you want. Then, divide the number of gallons by the total square feet to get your price per gallon.