subject: Interior House Painting 101 [print this page] Painting the interior of your home is the single most effective method of increasing your property value. Even if you are not considering selling your house at any point in the near future, a fresh coat of paint can maximize your personal enjoyment of your indoor living space.
Step 1: Select a Color
An attractive paint color that is pleasing to the eye and makes visitors feel welcome is a must in every home. Which colors you choose is a matter of individual preference, but the theme and tone should be consistent throughout each room. For instance, a bright canary yellow kitchen will clash sharply next to a day glow orange hallway. A general rule of thumb is to choose shades that either belong to the same color family or complement each other on the color wheel. Subtle shades such as beige, gray and light blue can be used on all four walls of a room, while bolder colors such as red and purple should be restricted to accent walls only. Be sure to correspond with existing carpet and furniture and accessorize accordingly.
Step 2: Prepare the Area
The first thing you must do is cover your furniture and flooring with sheets or tarps to prevent permanent damage from spills and splatter. Next, you need to prime the areas that will be painted. This important step is crucial to ensure the longevity and appearance of your paint job. The salesman at your local paint store should be able to recommend one that is appropriate for your needs. Finally, check to make sure you have all the necessary tools, including a paint tray, rollers, handheld brushes, painter's tape, and enough paint to complete the entire project.
Step 3: Apply the Paint
Use rollers on large surface areas and smaller handheld brushes for corners and trim. Apply the paint in consistent, vertical strokes to ensure a smooth, even and streak-free finish. Allow approximately 2 to 3 hours for the first coat to dry, depending on the type of paint used and the level of humidity in your home. A minimum of two coats is recommended for best results.
While doing your own painting can be a rewarding experience, it can also be time consuming and frustrating without the right tools and experience. You may want to consider hiring a professional interior house painting company and leave the work to the experts.
