Tag: Painter

Categories
Walls & flooring

A guide to fixing peeling paint on walls

Seeing paint peeling on walls can be frustrating, and dealing with it requires much effort. Peeling paint is one of the most common interior painting problems, and the good news is you can minimise the headache with a proactive approach.

Luckily, this guide offers you what you need to sort out your peeling paint issue. With a bit of know-how and some simple steps, you can learn how to prevent paint from peeling from walls.

Common causes of peeling paint 

Paint peeling off can be a pesky problem, and understanding its common causes is crucial to preventing it from happening again. 

Excess moisture

When water finds its way beneath the paint layers, it disrupts the bond between the surface and the paint. This often occurs in areas prone to high humidity, leaks, or poor ventilation.

Poor surface preparation

If surfaces aren’t properly cleaned, sanded, and primed before painting, the lack of a solid base to adhere to can cause premature peeling.

Low-quality paint

Using low-quality or inappropriate paint for specific surfaces can result in peeling. Investing in high-quality paint suitable for the surface type is a surefire way to prevent wall paint from peeling.

Temperature fluctuations

High temperatures, such as intense sunlight, can impact the curing process, preventing the paint from sticking to the surface, which leads to peeling.

What you’ll need

Worker using a trowel to scrape the paint / Source: iStock

Fixing peeling paint can seem challenging, but don’t worry. Regardless of whether you do it yourself or have an expert do it for you, being armed with the right tools, supplies, and knowledge on how to use them. 

Peeling paint, whether a minor inconvenience or a glaring eyesore, requires attention to detail and a methodical approach. Arm yourself with these tools and supplies to fix peeled paint on walls and achieve a smooth finish.

Safety gear

Put on your safety glasses and a dust mask. It’s imperative to do so during scraping and sanding to prevent inhalation of dust and debris.

High-quality paint

Pick top-quality acrylic paint that suits the specific needs of the room or exterior. Ensure it’s compatible with the primer and the surface material to promote adhesion and longevity.

Paint scraper

Use a sturdy paint scraper to remove peeling or loose paint from your interior walls. Opt for one with a comfortable grip to make the scraping process more manageable.

Sandpaper

Fine-grit sandpaper helps smooth out the edges where paint has peeled and prepares the surface for a new coat. Different grits may be needed for various surfaces and degrees of peeling.

Primer

A good primer is an effective bonding agent, creating a robust connection between the wall surface and the new paint. This provides a smooth canvas for your paint to adhere to and significantly reduces the chances of peeling in the future. 

Putty knife

For filling in any gaps, cracks, or holes left by the peeling paint, a putty knife or spackle can help cover peeling paint on walls and help you achieve a smooth and even surface.

Paintbrush or paint roller

Ready your painting tools to repaint the area that needs fixing. You can use a paintbrush for smaller areas or a paint roller to cover wider spaces. 

8 Steps to fix peeling paint on walls

Step 1: Prepare the area and ready your tools

Preparing the area before the painting task / Source: iStock

Before setting out to fix peeling paint in your home, gather all the tools and supplies needed for the job. It’s best also to wear your protective gear before you get into it. 

It’s also advisable to thoroughly examine the affected area beforehand. Identify the extent of the peeling and check for any issues, like water damage or structural problems.

Step 2: Cover nearby furniture in the area

When painting a wall, using painter’s tape is a great way to keep adjacent walls, furniture, and surfaces from being painted. You can also cover floors and furniture with drop cloths or plastic sheeting for better protection against paint splatters and accidents.

Step 3: Get rid of the loose paint 

With the help of your scraper, putty knife, or wire brush, carefully remove peeling paint from your walls. Remove the loose paint evenly so it’ll leave a smooth surface free of remaining paint chips. 

Remember not to apply too much pressure on your walls; otherwise, you might end up with dents and marks that can interfere with the painting process later. 

Step 4: Repair and smoothen the surface

Sanding a wall before repainting / Source: iStock

Using sandpaper, smooth out the edges and prepare the surface for new paint. This step helps create a uniform and level surface, encouraging better paint adhesion when applying fresh paint to the wall.

Step 5: Fill in the gaps and holes

Render your wall or fill in any gaps, cracks, or holes left by the peeling paint with the help of your tools, such as your putty knife or spackle. 

This is especially important if you’re dealing with fixing holes left after scraping paint off, and this step helps smoothen the different surfaces involved before applying paint. Ensure the fillers are completely dry to seal the surface even and get it ready for the next phase of the process.

Step 6: Apply your primer

Once the surface is dry, apply a high-quality primer to the concerned area or the entire wall if you’re repainting the whole area. This helps create a strong bond between the wall and the new paint and prevents future peeling. Let the primer dry completely before applying your colour.

Step 7: Start painting

Using a paintbrush to paint the wall / Source: iStock

Once the primer has dried, it’s time to start painting! Ready your painting tools, like paint brushes or paint roller, and use your quality paint of the same finish and colour (and paint brand, if possible) and start painting. If necessary, apply multiple coats of paint and let the wet areas dry before reapplying. 

If you can’t find your old paint tin or are stumped on which colour to buy, carve a small paint sample from your wall and bring it to a hardware store to check for a colour match. 

From unsightly to appealing

Although you can’t stop paint from peeling due to wear and tear, you can certainly slow down the process and extend the life of your paint job when equipped with the proper knowledge and tools. 

If doubts arise about your DIY prowess, hiring professional painters is a viable option. Their expertise ensures skilled paint application and the investment pays off in the form of a well-executed paint job and polished walls for years. 

FAQs on peeling paint on walls

What causes new paint to peel off walls?

Many factors can cause the new paint to peel off walls, such as poor surface preparation, excess moisture, low-quality paint, lack of primer, and too many coats painted on too quickly.

How do you keep paint from peeling when removing tape?

Preventing paint from peeling when removing tape requires a careful and strategic approach. Wait for the paint to dry before you peel off the tape. It’s also recommended to use high-quality painter’s tape to adhere well to the newly painted wall without causing damage upon removal. 

Can I paint over peeling wall paint?

Yes, but you should follow the right steps for lasting and polished results. Remember to remove loose or peeling paint, sand and clean the surface, use high-quality primers and paints, and follow the proper painting techniques to give your walls that fresh makeover. 

Categories
Walls & flooring

Learn how to paint a wall using a paint roller

If you plan to repaint your walls and update their look on your own, be sure to have a paint roller on hand. Its wide coverage can help you repaint your space with less effort. Although learning how to use a roller to paint walls can require a bit of technique, you can start with the basics. Let us guide you on how to use a paint roller on a wall for your next home makeover. 

What to know about paint rollers

A woman painting an interior wall grey using a paint roller / Source: iStock

The perfect paint job done with a roller begins with the right choice for thickness or “nap.” The thicker the nap of the roller cover, the more paint the roller can hold. 

A thinner nap is perfect if you prefer a smooth finish for your walls. On the other hand, go for a thicker nap if you are painting on surfaces like rendered walls. Moreover, using a thicker nap is ideal for getting in all of the nooks and crannies of rough surfaces. 

Also, having the right width of the paint roller cover to use for your project can ensure a more even finish. Go for a 230-270mm width roller for wide surfaces such as walls and ceilings. Otherwise, choose a 75-100mm roller for smaller projects such as front doors, trim, and window frames. 

What you’ll need:

  • Paint roller cover – A 230-270mm width roller is a good choice for painting on walls.
  • Paint roller frame – Find a frame that is compatible with your roller cover.
  • Drop cloth – Use this to clean up paint spills on floors and furniture.
  • Paint tray – Ensure the tray is large enough to fit the roller cover.
  • Paint stirrer – A flat stirrer is necessary for an even paint mix.
  • Paintbrush – A tapered brush is best for outlining wall edges.
  • Painter’s tape – This will mark off and protect trim and any areas you don’t want paint on.
  • Extension pole – Useful for reaching ceilings and other high areas.

A step-by-step guide to painting a wall using a paint roller 

Understanding how to use a paint roller on walls can ensure the success of your DIY home makeover. You can achieve a professional-looking finish by following some simple steps.

1. Prepare the painting area

A well-prepared painting area to keep things clean / Source: iStock

First, remove any furniture and decor, such as chairs, rugs, and side tables, from the room. Next, place drop cloths along the wall you will paint. Then mask off any areas you don’t want painted on, like the skirting. This will ensure a clean, defined edge when you begin painting. 

Lastly, turn off any air conditioning or heating in the room to minimise dust being stuck on the walls during the painting process.

2. Prepare and mix the paint

Since paint is made of a mixture of pigments and solids, it can slowly separate over a few days. Before pouring the paint on the tray, mix it in the tin for about thirty seconds. Place a drop cloth below your paint tin before doing this to keep your work area mess-free. Also, agitate any solids settled in the bottom of the tin as you mix. Afterwards, pour about 2.5cm of mixed paint on the tray to start.

3. Prime the roller cover

Start priming the roller cover by removing any stray fibres with a lint brush or tape. This will prevent any paint clots and debris as you paint later on. After that, dampen your roller cover with water. Lastly, blot the cover dry using a drop cloth. Priming your roller cover this way will help absorb and apply paint better on the walls.

4. Outline the wall borders with paint

A woman using a paint roller to paint the walls white / Source: iStock

Using a brush, paint around the borders of your wall to cover the edges. A tapered brush will help cover those tight spaces between the walls and the skirting. Be sure to paint in long and horizontal strokes so it can dry evenly.

5. Dip the paint roller 

Carefully slide the paint roller into the tray until it is evenly coated. A good rule of thumb is to roll it in the tray about 5-6 times to absorb enough paint. Scrape excess paint off the ridges of your tray to prevent drippings and grid marks on the wall. Check if your roller is not dripping any paint before applying it on the surface.

6. Roll paint on the wall

Gently glide your paint roller upwards from the bottom half of the wall. Then, work toward the rest of the wall in a zigzag “W” motion. Also, avoid applying too much pressure on the roller so it doesn’t become matted with paint. 

Reload the roller cover with paint if the roll marks appear speckled and inconsistent. Then, apply vertical and angled strokes as you paint over the edges and the rest of the wall. 

Once the first coat has fully dried, you can roll a second coat on your wall for an even and more durable coverage. By applying several coats, you get to fill any gaps in the wall and achieve a richer colour. 

7. Clean the roller cover and frame

Clean painting tools on a table / Source: iStock

Once you’re done with the painting and you’re satisfied with your paint finish, it’s time to pack up and clean your paint roller. Use a scraper and remove as much paint as possible before rinsing with water to avoid clogging up the drain. Finally, let your paint roller and other equipment dry outside before storing them properly in your toolbox. 

Tips when painting using a roller

Paint tools in use on a table / Source: iStock

Once you have used a paint roller, you will develop your own painting technique. With enough practice, you can end up with fewer roller streaks and finish the job faster. To help you improve, here are some useful tips on how to paint a wall using a roller. 

Choose premium painting tools

Getting a good build quality roller can save you money and trips to the hardware store. Moreover, consider buying higher quality wool blend roller covers since those contain fewer stray fibres, meaning they can hold more paint and withstand repeated use.

Reduce leftover roller marks

Streaks of paint left by the roller edges are a typical problem for painters. These roller marks are tough to remove if left unchecked. To avoid this issue, dip only the nap in the tray. Too much paint can seep from inside the roller, leaving unwanted streaks on the wall. In addition, maintain a gentle pressure while smoothing out the paint. Just let your roller do the work of covering the surface with paint. 

Spread the paint out quickly

Leaving the rolled paint on the wall for too long can result in an inconsistent finish. Quickly spread out the paint to ensure an even finish every time. Start by covering about 1 to 1.5m of the wall with paint before smoothing it on the rest of the surface. Once you settle on a quicker pace, you can paint over larger areas of the wall more evenly.

Plan your painting session

Time is of the essence when it comes to mastering how to paint using a roller. Painting a wall in an uninterrupted session is ideal because it minimises the chances of paint drying. Lap marks can form if the paint is left to dry even for a while. 

It’s best to keep the paint edges wet throughout the painting process. Wet edges blend easier, allowing for a smooth and seamless paint job at the end of the day. 

Use a wet rag to pick off paint lumps

Lumps of paint can eventually pop up on your walls as you use your roller. This can be due to debris being caught in the paint roller throughout the process. To remedy this, use a wet rag to pick off any paint lumps on the wall as you roll. In addition, one pro paint hack you can do is to sift out lumps in the paint with a strainer beforehand.

Paint with a roller like a pro

Using a paint roller when painting your walls can make transforming your home a breeze. By following the steps and tips above,  you can ensure a smooth and stunning finish on your walls every time. 

To get the best results on your home makeover, and if you’re not confident yet with your painting skills, seek the help of professional painters. These specialists have more expertise and can save you time and quote you on painting costs properly to ensure a clean and satisfactory paint job. 

FAQs on painting walls using a roller

How do you paint without leaving roller marks?

Use an adequate amount of paint to avoid leaving roller marks while painting. Overloaded paint rollers are difficult to control and often leave tacky roller marks. Ensure that only the nap absorbs paint while you dip it in the tray. 

How do you paint walls for beginners?

Begin by preparing the painting area. Clear any furniture out of the room and protect the skirting with painter’s tape. Next, use a paintbrush to outline the edges of the walls. Paint the rest of the wall with a paint roller in a “W” motion to smoothen any roller marks. 

Let the first coat dry, then apply a second coat to even out the paint. Lastly, scrape off any leftover paint on your roller, then rinse thoroughly.

Is it better to touch up wall paint with a roller or brush?

The best tool for touching up wall paint depends on the size of the area. A brush is generally a good choice for small and precise touch-ups, such as scuff marks or nail holes. However, if you need to touch up large areas, a paint roller is the most efficient tool for the job. Using a roller makes blending new paint with the existing colours on the surface easier. 

Categories
Design & decor

Solutions to common interior painting problems

Embarking on a DIY interior paint project opens the door to infinite possibilities, but mishaps and interior paint problems may arise throughout the process. What was originally a simple revamp to your space can be a headache if you’re not properly prepared for the task. 

But don’t worry! This guide will help you navigate various interior paint problems and the different solutions you can take to avoid them altogether. 

8 Common interior painting problems and how to avoid them 

Problem 1: Uneven paint coverage

Regardless of the colour palettes you choose, uneven coverage occurs when the surface isn’t prepared properly or when strokes and colours are inconsistent during application. 

The solution:

Before you even think about painting a wall, take the time to prime your walls, doors, and other surfaces. Primer acts as a foundation, creating a smooth base for the paint to adhere to and ensuring uniform coverage. 

Once primed, focus on maintaining consistent strokes while painting. You can’t rush good results, so patiently cover the surface with even coats. This not only guarantees a more aesthetically pleasing result but also minimises the chances of having to deal with patchy walls.

Problem 2: Peeling or flaking

Paint peeling on the wall / Source: iStock

Peeling paint is like a bad breakup between your walls and the paint. It happens when they don’t get along. Common culprits for paint peeling or flaking include a damp or wet surface, insufficient surface prep, temperature fluctuations, and low-quality paints. 

The solution:

To ensure you don’t encounter these interior wall paint problems, always prep your surfaces by cleaning them and getting rid of dirt before putting on the first coats of paint. This makes sure the paint sticks better to the surface. 

For addressing paint flaking incidents, don’t skimp on high-quality paint since cheap ones will crack over time. Additionally, invest in using suitable prepcoats and topcoats for longer-lasting results.

Problem 3: Bleeding

In the context of painting, bleeding is where old colours or patterns on a wall become visible or bleed through the fresh coat of paint applied. It’s more likely to occur when applying a new, darker colour over a lighter one, and the previous hue becomes noticeable. 

The solution: 

To prevent bleeding, using at least one coat of tinted primer can provide a neutral base that helps hide the old colour. This ensures a smoother and more consistent finish with the new paint. 

Problem 4: Paint bubbles and blistering

Paint bubbles and blisters are often caused by painting in less-than-ideal conditions or temperatures, such as when it’s too hot, or you’re painting an area directly hit by the sun. This can turn your paint job into an absolute nightmare if left unaddressed. 

The solution:

An easy solution to this can be to paint at a cooler time of the day to prevent any blistered paint from popping up. 

Also, make sure your surface is completely dry with no signs of any moisture. If your walls are hiding moisture, the water trapped beneath the surface will make it difficult for the fresh coat of paint to adhere to the surface and cause it to bubble and blister. 

Problem 5: Discolouration and fading

Using a paint roller to paint the wall white / Source: iStock

Walls that become more discoloured when they experience prolonged exposure to the sun. This can cause pigments in the paint to break down and lose their original vibrancy. 

Fading, meanwhile, is the result of low colour retention, which might be due to low-quality, non-fade-resistant paints. These paints lack the durability to withstand UV exposure and extreme weather conditions, and as time passes, they become victim to general wear and tear. 

The solution: 

To combat these interior paint problems, you can start by choosing good quality paint brands, preferably ones with UV-resistant properties designed to resist fading. This can ultimately help delay any instances of fading or discolouration.  

Problem 6: Brush or roller marks

If you’re working on a painted surface, you might notice brush or roller marks in some areas. These are the unintentional textured patterns left behind due to uneven application or inconsistent brush strokes, which can be a common problem for those who do the painting themselves. When struggling with this issue, you’re also potentially left with uneven coating on your external surfaces.

The solution: 

Invest in a high-quality wire brush or roller suitable for the type of paint and surface you’re working on. If you’re using thick paint, consider thinning it slightly. Thinned paint tends to level more evenly, reducing the chances of visible brush or roller marks.

Problem 7: Blocking

Blocking happens when freshly painted surfaces stick together and is normally caused by not letting the paint fully dry between coats. 

The solution: 

As a good rule of thumb, don’t rush through the painting process. Allow each coat of paint to dry completely to avoid blocking issues. By giving the area enough time to dry off, you can enjoy smooth and separated layers. 

Problem 8: Paint splatters

Paint splatter all over the floor as a woman paints the wall white / Source: iStock

You get paint splatters when tiny droplets of paint are unintentionally propelled onto surfaces beyond the targeted area. Several factors contribute to this common painting mishap, like brush and roller techniques used, painting too fast, or having too much paint on the brush or roller. 

The solution: 

Paint splatters can easily be minimised by using simple tips and tricks throughout the process, such as when painting a door. This includes having better control over your brush techniques, maintaining stroke consistency, avoiding overloading your tools, and not rushing the application process. It’s also advisable to protect adjacent surfaces with cloths, newspaper, or painter’s tape for added measure. 

Additionally, paint splatters can easily be avoided if you hire qualified painters to do your interiors for you. Plus, you get to know how much paint jobs cost. Seasoned painters bring not just skill but a mastery of techniques that minimise the risk of mishaps.

Say goodbye to your painting problems! 

When painting interiors, it’s easy for things to get messy. If you’re able to spot the different problems with painting interior walls and the steps you can take to minimise them, then giving your home a colour makeover should be a breeze! If you think you need professional help, you can always book professional painters. 

FAQs on interior painting problems 

What does a bad paint job look like?

A bad paint job is when your interiors look less than ideal than they should. This can mean having uneven coverage, patchy colouring across the surfaces, drips, runs, peeling or flaking of paint, etc. 

How can you tell if wall paint is bad?

Peeling or flaking can indicate the paint has poor adhesion. Discolouration or mould can mean the paint has poor moisture resistance. Uneven coverage or a patchy appearance suggests problems with the paint application, possibly due to improper mixing or thinning.

Why do my walls look bad after painting?

Your walls could look bad after a paint job if they haven’t received proper preparation, like cleaning, sanding, or priming. This can lead to poor adhesion of the paint and an uneven or lacklustre finish. 

Likewise, there are other external factors too to why your walls might look bad after being painted. These include having low-quality paint, inadequate mixing, incorrect application techniques, or moisture issues. 

Categories
Gates & fencing

How to paint a fence

A guide to giving your fence a refresh

 When a fence on your property is worn or has suffered from sun damage, repainting the materials can allow you to give it a facelift. Painting the fence can enhance its appearance and also extend its lifespan. There are a few steps to take when you plan to complete the project yourself instead of hiring a professional company.

Types of paints or stains to use for different types of fence

 There are a variety of different types of paints and stains to use when repainting the fence. The type of paint or stain you select depends on the type of material used on your fence. 

  • Oil-based – If you’re learning how to paint a picket fence, this type of paint is ideal to use because it prevents rust or discolouration from occurring. If you’re learning how to paint a timber paling fence, oil-based paint is also the right choice.
  • Latex – When you want to learn how to paint a wooden fence, latex paint works well and has a self-priming compound.
  • Hybrid paints – Self-priming hybrid paints adhere easily to different types of materials and doesn’t crack, peel or blister. 

Sprayer VS brush

Here is a basic guide for beginners if you’ve been wondering how to paint a fence with a sprayer. Using a paint sprayer can be a great option because it allows you to be more thorough and reach small crevices that brushes can’t always reach. Sprayers are available in a variety of models and are easy to use. However, with a sprayer, you can’t stop painting or the sprayer can become clogged as the paint dries. When you add paint to the sprayer, you commit yourself to finish the project to avoid issues. It can also require a lot of trial and error to create an even coat with a sprayer to achieve professional results.

Using a brush or roller can also be quick and easy. You can stop halfway through the project and complete it on another day. Rolling paint can also be a lot more affordable than using a sprayer. Using a brush is also a great option if you’re learning how to paint a colorbond fence for a smooth, even application.

Spray painting a wooden fence \ Source: James Painting And Decorating

Materials and tools

  • Paint sprayer, brushes, rollers – Depending on how you plan to apply the paint, you’ll need to gather brushers, rollers, and a sprayer to ensure the paint or stain is easy and efficient to apply
  • Primer – Applying primer to fence will make it easier for the paint or stain to be applied
  • Paint or stain of your choice – You’ll need to find a specific type of paint or stain to use to cover all the materials on the fence and update its appearance
  • Extension cord – Depending on the size of your project, an extension cord may be needed if you plan to use electrical tools to sand the fence or spray the fence
  • Clear plastic sheeting or drop sheet – A drop sheet is necessary to use on the ground to protect the surrounding area from paint that splatters or spills. The sheet should be large and thick enough to cover different surface areas and can be moved as you work your way to the end of the fence
  • Pressure washer – A pressure washer is necessary for removing all dirt and grime that is present on the different materials on the fence. This will allow the paint to go on smoother and will prevent any dirt from mixing with the paint once it’s applied

Contact local painters

How to paint a fence

  1. Gather the right materials – You’ll need to collect all the materials you need for the job, whether you plan to purchase or rent some of the items. Lay everything out on the grass or patio to make it easy to find and access. You’ll also need to obtain protective gear to wear to avoid exposing yourself to the paint.
  2. Prepare for painting – Prep the area by loading up your sprayer or adding paint to the trays. Remove all the packaging from the products and assemble the pieces to ensure it’s ready to use
    1. Check the weather forecast – Look at the weather forecast for the coming week to determine the best day to start the project
    2. Pressure clean the fence – Start pressure washing the fence to remove all dirt, debris, and grime that is present to ensure you can apply the paint to a clean surface
    3. Sand the fence – if necessary to remove rust or splinters
  3. Paint – Start painting and create large, even streaks in the same direction. Allow the first coat to dry for several hours before applying the second coat of paint
  4. Clean up – Look for areas on the ground that may have paint splatters and use a wet rag to wipe it up
Freshly painted picket fence / Source: Dimensional Colour Painting

How often should you paint your fence?

Your fence should be painted every two to three years to ensure it looks new and stays in good condition. There are a few main factors that influence how often you’ll need to repaint the materials. 

  • Climate – Climate is the main factor that influences how quickly the paint will wear off, especially if you live in a location with harsh weather conditions. You can expect to repaint it sooner if the structure is south-facing and has more exposure to the sun. 
  • Material – The type of fence material is another factor that determines how well it holds up outdoors. Wood fences often need to be painted more frequently because their stain can wear off quicker. The fence needs to be repainted once water no longer beads on the surface of the materials and absorbs into the wood. A rust-proofing coating that is on the materials can extend the life of the paint. This can allow you to only paint the fence every three years, especially if you live in a warmer climate that doesn’t experience a lot of rain or snow.

How do you hire a painter?

 When you’re looking to hire a professional painter, you’ll need to research their licensing and qualifications. They should also offer a guarantee on all the work they perform to ensure your investment is protected. 

Request at least three references to ensure you can speak to their former customers about the quality of work they perform. The painter should have a professional website and a physical address associated with their business.

Categories
Walls & flooring

Should you hire a painter, or do it yourself?

To give your home a lift or seasonal refresh, the best option is usually a fresh coat of paint. However, should you fork out money for a professional painter to get the job done, or have a go at doing it yourself? Here, we explore the advantages of hiring an expert.

Advantages of hiring a professional painter

1. Experience

Professional painters have years of experience in the trade meaning that they know everything from how many tins of paint it will take to paint a room depending on its size, how many coats of paint are needed, and if any special measures are needed to prepare a surface for painting.

2. The right equipment

Chances are you won’t have an array of paint brushes, rollers and drop sheets at home. Through hiring a professional home painter you won’t need to waste money and storage space on painting equipment you’ll seldom use.

A fresh coat of paint can increase the value of your property / Source: MKG Interior Design

3. Health & safety

Don’t neglect the idea of safety when painting, especially if your painting job involves heights, ceilings and hard to reach areas. Professional painters have the right type of ladders and harness equipment to paint difficult to reach walls in the home. Painting also involves using chemicals such as solvents to clean up any spillages or paint runs, which can be very dangerous if they make contact with skin or are inhaled.

4. Perfect finish

You may think that the do-it-yourself approach to painting is worth the cost savings of hiring a professional. However commercial painters and home painters are trained perfectionists who will ensure that the job is completed to the highest of standards. It’s certainly worth spending the extra money to achieve a quality finish for your home or business. Professional decorators also know which are the best paint brands and finishes for each type of job, whether you want a matt, gloss, satin or eggshell finish your painter will be able to source the best quality product to achieve the desired look.

Q&A with a professional painter

We spoke to professional painter Hass from DHY Painting And Decorating, based in Mill Park Victoria, to find out more about Australian home painting trends, the most requested painting jobs, popular paint colours and what the best thing is about being a professional painter.

How long have you been painting and decorating for?

Painting is a family trade, my father is a painter, and my great uncle was a painter. I was exposed to painting from a very young age. Every school holiday during high school, I was out with my father and uncle acting as their apprentice.

What are your most requested painting jobs?

My most requested work would be repainting for landlords refreshing their property to release. But we don’t stop there, DHY Painting complete paint jobs for many new homes, repainting for family homes, office repaints, and many other special projects.

What is the most popular colour Australian home owners are painting their walls?

It would definitely be “White on White”.

What sort of paint is best to use for painting exterior walls and fences?

My go-to paint for exterior walls and fences would have to be Taubmans Endure Exterior, or Taubmans All Weather.

For exterior painting Hass recommends Taubmans Endure Exterior or All Weather / Source: Jnaid & Sons

What’s the largest paint job you’ve completed?

The largest commercial paint job I’ve ever completed was painting part of the Chadstone Shopping Centre extension, Australia’s largest major shopping centres. The largest domestic paint job I’ve completed was a 100 square metre home in Eden Park, Melbourne.

What colours do you recommend using when painting your home to be sold?

White! A blank canvas is the most appealing to home buyers.

How many days does it usually take you to complete a paint job?

It usually takes me around 2 days to repaint a 2 bedroom unit. A 3 bedroom home can take 3-5 days to repaint.

What is your favourite part of your job?

My favourite part of the job of being a professional painter would definitely have to be handover time. It is such a good feeling, seeing the excitement on my clients face when we transform their property and give it a new lease of life!