homeowner's painting set up following painting tips for your new home

When you move into a new home, typically there is some painting to be done throughout the new space. Or, even if you have lived in your home for quite some time but are looking for a way to change up your aesthetic, throwing on a fresh coat of paint might help accomplish your vision. Painting is not an easy task though. It requires a lot of time, patience, and high-quality supplies to get the job done successfully. Here are some of our most helpful painting tips for your new home! 

  • If you purchase more than one can of paint, mix them together in a larger bucket for a consistent paint color. Each can of paint can vary in color and this will ensure an even look. You can pour the excess paint back in the cans afterwards if they go unused. 

  • Use cotton drop cloths over plastic ones. The cotton drop cloths stay in place and soak up the splattered paint. Plastic is slippery and the paint does not dry quickly which makes it easier to track paint around the room while you are working. 

  • When choosing a day for your painting project, choose a dry day with low humidity. Humidity makes paint dry slower which can cause more dripping and other imperfections. 

  • Cover everything you don’t want painted. Drop cloths offer great protection for the floors and furniture. Small plastic bags can be used for covering doorknobs. 

  • Remove light switch and outlet covers before you begin painting. Taping them can work too but to ensure an even look and avoid mistakes, taking them off is your best bet. 

  • Use a bright light to check your paint job under good lighting after each section is finished. 

  • Purchase high quality paint, brushes, and rollers. 

  • Use painters tape wherever there are edges in the room you do not want to paint such as windows, doorways, or molding. 

  • If you are painting the room a darker paint color, give it a longer drying time. Typically, a minimum of 6-8 hours before applying a second coat is a safe bet. 

  • Once the paint is dry to the touch remove any painter’s tape. Waiting too long to remove it will result in chipping the paint. When removing the tape pull at a 45-degree angle for a smooth removal.