As fun as DIY projects are, there are traps waiting to ruin your masterpiece. From bad weather to improper equipment to poor technique, there is much that can go wrong if you’re an inexperienced painter. Don’t let your DIY dream turn into a nightmare. Here are eight common mistakes that DIY painters make.
Common Mistake No. 1: Painting in Bad Weather
If you’re going to paint outside, one of the first things to consider is the weather. Painting in bad weather can keep paint from adhering properly or drying evenly. It’s important to choose a day with mild temperatures and low humidity for the best outcome (check out our painting weather guide for more details)
Additionally, avoid painting in direct sunlight, as it can cause the paint to dry too quickly and result in cracks and imperfections.
Common Mistake No. 2: No Prep Work
Painting can quickly become a messy business if you don’t properly prepare your surface and surroundings. This may include cleaning, sanding, and priming the area to ensure a smooth and long-lasting finish. Depending on what you’re painting, it may be a good idea to lay a tarp or a drop cloth to prevent accidental paint splatters. And don’t forget to use painter’s tape to mask off any areas that you don’t want to be painted, such as trim or windows.
Additionally, it’s important to remove any hardware or fixtures that may get in the way or be damaged during the painting process. Taking the time to do proper prep work will save you time and effort in the long run and help you achieve professional-looking results.
Common Mistake No. 3: The Wrong Tools
Not all paint brushes are alike. Different brushes are designed for different types of paint and surfaces. Using the wrong brush can result in uneven coverage, streaks, or bristle marks. It’s important to choose a brush that is appropriate for the type of paint you’re using and the surface you’re painting on. Check out our How to Choose the Right Paint Brush for the Job article to find out more.
However, you may choose to use a paint sprayer or a paint roller. In that case, you’ll also need to know which one to get. For instance, did you know that not all paint sprayers are right for all surface types? Whichever method you choose, make sure you get the right tool for the job.
Common Mistake No. 4: The Wrong Technique
You can get the best equipment on the market, but if you don’t use the right technique, your painting results may be in vain. For instance, holding your paint sprayer too far from the surface may cause it to dry too soon. Moreover, painting in the wrong pattern when using a paint roller can cause splatters. You get the idea; one thing going wrong in your painting project can create a domino effect of disaster.
So before you get started, make sure you familiarize yourself with the right painting techniques for the tools you’re using.
Check out our articles about painting techniques:
- How to Use a Paint Brush Like a Pro
- How to Roll Paint Without Splattering
- How to Use a Paint Sprayer Like a Pro
Common Mistake No. 5: The Wrong Paint
Using the wrong type of paint can lead to a subpar finish and wasted time and money. It can even result in peeling, cracking, or uneven coverage, which will require additional time and effort to fix.
Before starting your project, make sure to carefully read the labels and choose paint that’s suitable for the surface you will be painting. For instance, the best paints for brick homes aren’t the same as what you’ll want to use on your exterior wood surfaces. Additionally, consider factors such as durability, sheen, and ease of application to ensure the best results.
Don’t try to save money by buying a low-quality product. Instead, invest in high-quality paint that will provide a long-lasting and professional-looking finish.
Common Mistake No. 6: Only One Coat of Paint
Applying just one coat of paint can create an uneven and patchy finish. To achieve a professional-looking result, apply multiple thin coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. This will ensure smooth and consistent color coverage on your walls or surfaces.
But to use multiple coats, you have to make sure you have enough paint.
Common Mistake No. 7: Not Enough Paint
You don’t want to get near the end of the completion of your masterpiece only to realize … there’s no more paint. To avoid this common mistake, it’s essential to estimate the amount of paint you’ll need for your project. Ensure you have enough before starting.
Missing this step can have detrimental effects on the final look of your paint job, too, especially if you’re applying a color that was mixed in the paint store or home improvement center. Sure, you can return to the store and have them mix another batch, but if the new batch isn’t mixed precisely the same, you will end up with slightly different color tones.
Keep in mind that you should purchase slightly more paint than you think you’ll need to account for any potential touch-ups or additional coats. This way, you can ensure a smooth and uninterrupted painting process without any last-minute trips to the store.
Common Mistake No. 8: Bad Cleanup
Don’t neglect cleaning up after you finish painting. Failing to clean brushes, rollers, and other painting tools can lead to dried paint buildup, making them less effective for future use. Additionally, not cleaning up spills or drips immediately can result in stains or damage to the surrounding surfaces.
Taking the time to thoroughly clean up after painting will help maintain the longevity of your tools and ensure a neat and professional-looking end result. Check out our articles to help you clean up paint spills and give your paint brushes and paint rollers a good wash.
FAQ
Is DIY painting hard?
DIY painting is sometimes challenging, especially if you lack experience or the necessary tools. However, with proper preparation and following the right techniques, it’s definitely achievable for many projects.
Always evaluate the scope of the project and your skill level before starting, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help if needed. Remember to take your time, follow safety precautions, and be patient with the process.
Is exterior painting easier than interior?
This once again depends on each project. However, generally speaking, exterior painting can be more challenging. Weather conditions, how much prep you do, and your equipment will affect how difficult your exterior painting project will be.
Is DIY painting worth it?
If you can do it right, DIY painting may save you some bucks. However, if it goes wrong, it could do the exact opposite and end up costing you more money and time to fix the mistakes.
Ready to Leave it to a Pro?
Not all painting jobs can be turned into successful DIY projects, and that’s okay. If you’re unsure about tackling a painting project on your own or if you simply don’t have the time, it’s always a good idea to hire a professional painter.
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