As part of our Better Your Home competition, we've partnered with the team at Reno Addict to give one lucky winner a kick-start on the home reno of their dreams.
A quality paint-job is the basis for any successful reno. Unfortunately, there are some simple mistakes that have become common place. Take a look at the tips below and turn your next reno into a painters' paradise.
Pre-painting prep
Before you get to the actual painting, you'll need to give your surface a proper clean. Use sugar soap to get rid of any grease and grime. If there are any existing marks, a stain blocker will stop them from showing through under the new coat of paint. To finish off your prep, you'll need to make sure the surface is clean and dry. Remove any paint flakes by sanding or scraping them off, and don't forget to fill in any cracks or gaps.
Time to talk tools
Like any other tool, a high quality brush or roller is going to serve you best, and last for years. Investing in quality means better coverage and less paint wastage. You'll also need to match the right brush to the right paint - synthetic filaments are best for water-based formulations.
Another important consideration is the size and style of your brushes. The most common brushes are wall painting brushes. They make light work of covering large surfaces due to their thick, flat shape. When you need a little more accuracy (think door and window frames, and even those hard-to-get-to wall and ceiling corners), a cutter brush is the way to go. The specially shaped tip is perfect for straight brush lines.
Prime painting
If your surface is made of plaster, wood, concrete or stained/porous drywall, it's a good idea to apply a primer before you begin painting. The same applies if you are painting over an old colour or glossy paint. The primer covers any flaws, and will lead to a smooth finish that will last far beyond your renovation.
Speaking of a smooth finish, if you add extender to your paints, it can help to eliminate brush strokes and avoid dry edges. Maintaining a wet edge is crucial for preventing brush and roller marks.
For more tips on avoiding common painting mistakes, check out this article from the team at Reno Addict.