Courtesy of Naypong, FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Planning to give your rooms a new look for the fall season? Many homeowners prefer to paint their homes themselves but often times fall short of accomplishing that professional look. Here are some tips to achieving that look without the extra expense of hiring the professional.
The first step in painting your new home begins with having the proper tools that are great quality. That includes high-quality brushes, rollers and drop cloths. Be sure to have safe ladders and staging to reach comfortably all the high places.
The next step is to stop and read the paint label, “clean, dry surface.” Often times painters skip the cleaning process. It is better to wash walls with mild soap and water as well as dust woodwork around doors, windows, and baseboards.
After cleaning walls, patch any holes and cracks with a quick-drying spackling compound or caulk. The compound should be used for holes, caulk for cracks. Be sure to lightly sand the compound after drying for a smooth finished look.
The next step is cutting in. Carefully apply the wall paint where the woodwork and the ceiling meet since they may be different in color. A two-inch tapered brush is recommended for this step.
Before dipping the brush in the paint, get the bristles slightly wet. Shake the brush to remove excess water. Wetting the brush helps make it easier to clean the outermost bristles. Dip the brush in the paint and wipe off excess paint from both sides of the brush before cutting in. It may worth taking the time to apply painter’s tape along the edges of woodwork and wall lines for a cleaner finish.
The final step is completing the entire wall. Use a high-quality roller to achieve professional results. Modern roller covers made from foamlike materials produce hardly any roller spray. Remember to paint making a “W” instead of painting straight up and down.
Other tips to consider include removing outlet/switch cover plates, and vent covers. Also, make sure to use sturdy ladders for higher areas.
-Anjelica