The 5 biggest mistakes homeowners make when painting.

Homeowners often make common mistakes when painting that can compromise the final look and durability of the finish. From inadequate preparation to poor technique, these errors can lead to a result that is disappointing and wears out prematurely. Here are five of the biggest mistakes and how to avoid them. 

1. Skipping surface preparation

Many homeowners underestimate the importance of preparation and rush to get to the painting stage, but skipping this step is a leading cause of paint failure. Paint will not properly adhere to a surface that is not clean and smooth, which can lead to blistering, peeling, and a poor-quality finish. 

How to avoid it:

• Clean the surface: Use a mild detergent or degreaser to wash walls and other surfaces thoroughly, paying special attention to areas with grime buildup, like kitchens.

• Repair damage: Fill any holes or cracks with spackle or wood filler and sand them down so they are level with the surface.

• Sand glossy finishes: Lightly sand any glossy areas to give the new paint a surface to grip.

• Prime the surface: If you are painting a patched area or changing colors dramatically, use a high-quality primer to ensure even absorption and a consistent color. 

2. Using the wrong tools for the job

The final result of your paint job is highly dependent on the quality of your tools. Using cheap brushes and rollers can lead to streaks, shed bristles, and uneven coverage. 

How to avoid it:

• Invest in quality tools: Quality brushes have better bristles for smooth application, and good roller covers hold paint more evenly.

• Match the tool to the surface: Use the appropriate roller nap for the surface texture you are painting. A smooth wall requires a short-nap roller, while a textured surface needs a medium to long nap to cover the valleys.

• Match the tool to the paint: Natural-bristle brushes are for oil-based paints, while synthetic bristles are for latex paint. 

3. Ignoring proper drying and curing times 

Impatience is a common cause of painting mistakes, leading to a host of problems. Painting a second coat before the first is dry can cause peeling and bubbling. 

How to avoid it:

• Be patient: Always follow the manufacturer's recommended drying times between coats, which can vary depending on the paint type and environmental conditions.

• Consider humidity and temperature: On exterior paint projects, be mindful of the weather, as excessive heat, cold, or humidity can compromise the application.

• Use fans for ventilation: To speed up drying time and reduce fumes, use fans to improve air circulation, but avoid pointing them directly at a freshly painted wall. 

4. Overloading the brush or roller

Using too much paint on your brush or roller at once is a recipe for drips, runs, and a messy finish. This can cause thick, uneven patches that become brittle and more susceptible to cracking. 

How to avoid it:

• Dip conservatively: Dip your brush no more than one-third of the way into the paint.

• Use a paint tray: For rollers, use a tray to roll off excess paint before application.

• Use thin, even coats: It is always better to apply two or three thin, even coats than one thick one. 

5. Overlooking the importance of primer

Ignoring primer is a mistake that can cause uneven tones, peeling, and poor coverage. Primer is especially important when changing colors dramatically or painting over raw surfaces like wood or drywall. 

How to avoid it:

• Always use primer: Prime bare surfaces, patched areas, or glossy finishes before painting to create a clean, uniform foundation.

• Use a bonding primer: When painting over an oil-based finish with latex paint, use a bonding primer to ensure proper adhesion.

• Use a tinted primer: When covering a dark color with a lighter one, use a tinted primer to minimize the number of topcoats needed.