subject: How to Get Professional-Looking Results When You Paint [print this page] How to Get Professional-Looking Results When You Paint
The next time you paint a room in your house, or the outside of your home, here are a few pointers to help you get professional-looking results.
Consider the colors you choose. When deciding upon a color for a room, you should refer to the fabrics in the furniture and drapes, the floor covering or favorite accessories in the room. Bring paint sample swatches from the paint or hardware store to review and compare to the other colors in the room. When you have narrowed down the choices to two or three, buy inexpensive tester sizes of those paint colors and try them out on the walls. See how the various hues look with natural and artificial light and at different times of the day.
Consider the finish you choose. Paint comes in different finishes. Flat finishes don't reflect light and can hide wall imperfections. Satin finish has a slight sheen and is easier to clean than a flat finish. Either of these choices would work well in bedrooms or living rooms. Semigloss finishes are durable and make a good choice for either a bathroom or a kitchen.
Preparation is important. Holes and small cracks can be patched with spackling paste. Primer coats of paint are very important when covering repaired surfaces or when changing from a dark color paint to a lighter color. Primer coats will also help the paint job last longer.
Use the correct tools. Painter's tape is essential for masking areas that you don't want to paint. A 2-inch angled brush is necessary for cutting in corners. A roller with an extension pole can be used to paint walls and ceilings. You will also need roller trays, drop cloths, rags and a bucket of water for clean-up.
Use quality paint. Buy the best quality pain that you can afford. Good quality paint has better coverage and is less like to fade. It is also easier to apply and care for.
