Introduction
Painting the interior of your home can seem like a daunting task, but with some preparation and helpful tips, it can be accomplished successfully. As an experienced house painter in Philadelphia, I have painted hundreds of interiors over my career. In this article, I will provide my top tips for interior painting projects. From prepping the space, choosing paints, using proper tools and techniques, all the way to clean up, this guide will set you up for interior painting success. Let’s get started!
Prep the Space
Before bringing out the paint brushes, it’s crucial to properly prep the interior space. First, remove all furniture, artwork, curtains, and other items from the rooms being painted. Cover and protect any furniture or flooring that can’t be moved. Patch any holes or cracks in the walls and sand them until smooth. Clean the walls thoroughly by wiping away all dirt, grease, and grime. This allows the paint to adhere properly. Use painter’s tape to mask off any baseboards, moldings, outlets, and trim. Proper prep leads to a smooth finished look.
Choose the Right Paint
With so many options on the market, it can be tricky selecting the best interior paint. The finish and sheen are important considerations. Flat or matte paints are great for hiding imperfections but are harder to clean. Eggshell finishes provide a subtle sheen and are more durable. Satin and semi-gloss finishes are shiny, scrubbable options perfect for kitchens and bathrooms. Also consider quality and brand. I recommend using premium quality paints from reliable brands. They provide better coverage and often use less toxic ingredients. If you plan to paint a dark color over a light color wall, use a primer first for proper coverage.
Use the Proper Tools
Investing in high-quality painting tools will make your interior painting project much easier. Some essential items include paint trays, roller covers, paintbrushes in multiple sizes, a paint roller pole, a step ladder or stepstool, and drop cloths. Use angled paintbrushes for cutting in edges and painting trim. Select rollers and roller covers suited for your paint type and texture. Proper tools allow you to work efficiently and neatly. Don’t try to cut corners with subpar equipment.
Employ Proper Painting Techniques
Approaching the painting process systematically will produce professional looking results. Always start by “cutting-in” edges with a brush and apply painter’s tape where needed. When using a roller, apply paint in a “W” or crisscross motion to ensure even coverage. Maintain a wet edge by painting from one end to the other without stopping. For ceilings, use an extended roller pole and paint in straight back-and-forth strokes. Apply two coats for full coverage and color accuracy. Let each coat dry fully before adding another. Proper technique leads to a smooth, consistent finish.
Cleanup and Final Touches
Once painting is complete, immediately wash brushes, rollers, and other tools in warm soapy water. Use mineral spirits for oil-based paints. Allow all painted surfaces to cure fully before rehanging curtains or artwork. Patch any small holes or imperfections that may be visible. Finally, remove all painter’s tape and reinstall outlet covers, switch plates, etc. Proper cleanup and finishing touches give your interior painting project a polished, professional look.
Conclusion
With the right prep work, high-quality paint and tools, proper techniques, and thorough cleanup, you can tackle interior painting projects with confidence. Don’t be afraid to seek help for very large rooms or high ceilings. For homes in the Philadelphia area, I highly recommend utilizing professional house painters to handle the hard work while you relax. With these interior painting tips in mind, your home can have a fresh updated look in no time.