When it comes to updating the look of your home’s interiors, applying a fresh coat of paint is one of the simplest ways to make a major change. However, knowing what not to do can be important for ensuring a result that you’re happy with. If you’re planning to begin painting in San Jose for your next home improvement project, then take care to avoid the following mistakes:
Skipping the Preparation
No matter what type of surface you’re planning to paint, preparing it before you begin painting is essential. Wash the surface to remove dust and oils, sand it if necessary, and ensure that it’s free of debris and moisture before you lift a paint brush.
Skimping on Applicators
Every home improvement project is constrained by a budget, so you may find yourself reaching for the least expensive brushes and rollers while at the paint store. However, cutting costs by choosing inferior paint applicators is a mistake that you should avoid if you’re hoping to achieve professional results.
Forgoing the Tape
If this will be your first major painting project, then you may be thinking of skipping the taping step. As anyone who has done this and then regretted it would tell you, applying painter’s tape to the edges of your work area will save you frustration later. If you are painting the walls of a room, for example, then be sure that you have painter’s tape sealed tightly against all the baseboards, molding, and window frames to help prevent getting paint where you don’t want it.
Painting without Covering
Finally, before you begin applying any paint, it’s critical that you cover furniture, floors, and any other surfaces in the area that you do not want to paint. Be sure to pick up drop cloths or plastic covers from the hardware store, and then put these in place before you get started. Taking this step can help protect your furnishings from spilled paint cans and dripping paint rollers.
