Anyone can rush a home paint job to completion. Unfortunately, doing so almost always guarantees substandard results. The reason being that there’s a difference between rushing a job and carrying out the same task in a structured, strategic and savvy manner.

Ask any pro painter in Washington, DC, McLean, VA or Chevy chase, MD and they’ll tell you the same – rushed jobs make for rubbish results!

On the plus side, there are plenty of options on the table for anyone looking to get an interior painting job finished faster. All without compromising the quality of the final result. It’s simply a case of taking a few tips from the pros, for whom producing flawless results as fast as possible is always a priority.

So with this in mind, here’s a brief overview of just a few simple yet effective tips for painting your interiors faster, without compromising on quality:

Allocate A Block Of Time

First and foremost, it’s essential that you allocate an appropriate amount of time to the project in advance. If you simply ‘dip’ in and out of the job on a somewhat random basis, it’s going to take you forever. Consider how much time you think you need to get the job done, then add at least 10% more or so as a margin for error.

Use Quick Drying Filler

If you need to carry out any minor repairs about the place, always opt for a quick drying filler of the highest quality. The longer it takes the filler to set in place, the longer you have to wait before getting on with the painting process.

Prime Your Walls Properly

Priming isn’t only about producing a more attractive final result. It’s also about simplifying the process of getting the paint on the walls in the first place. Whereas painting a properly primed surface is relatively easy, attempting to tackle walls that are not appropriately prepared can be a nightmare. Hence, this is one part of the job you really don’t want to rush.

Paint One Room At a Time

In fact, we typically suggest painting one wall at a time, before moving on to the next. One of the most common mistakes made by DIYers is attempting to tackle pretty much every room at the same time, which almost always results in chaos. Focus on one small area at a time and ensure you are happy with the progress you’re making before moving on to the next wall/room.

Use Builder’s Paper Instead Of Drop Cloths

For one thing, traditional drop cloths can be somewhat hazardous when used on hard floors due to a lack of traction. They also have a habit of bunching up under ladders and steps, which only stands to slow you down. Disposable builder’s paper makes a great alternative to consider, which for obvious reasons is also more environmentally friendly than disposable plastic covers.

Enlist Help

Perhaps the most effective way of speeding up an interior paint jobs is to enlist help for the ride. Going it alone is always an option, but having an extra pair of hands (or two) about the place really will make a big difference. Even if it’s simply to pass you the tools you need and help clean up the mess you make, you’ll be glad there’s someone else nearby.

Use Quality Paints

The quality of the paints you use will make a huge difference to the speed and simplicity of the project. Quality paints are designed with accelerated and simplified application in mind, spreading smoothly and evenly over your walls as quickly as possible. Quality paints also dry to a flawless finish much faster than their low-grade counterparts. Hence, it’s important not to cut corners on paint quality if you’d prefer to get the job done sooner rather than later.

Use A Paint Pad For Trimming

Investing in a quality paint pad also comes highly recommended. This will make it significantly easier to tackle trim and generally awkward corners around your home. A good paint pad is a tool no professional painter would be without and an affordable extra you need in your kit.

Line Your Equipment

You’ll save yourself a lot of time-consuming cleaning by lining your trays with strong aluminum foil. Alternatively, consider using a strong plastic bag if you use a bucket instead of a tray.

Extend Your Roller

Last but not least, it’s far easier to reach elevated areas with an extended roller than to keep going up and down ladders incessantly. Invest in a roller that can be extended to reach trickier spots, or pick up an extension handle if you already have a roller you like working with.

For more information on interior painting or to discuss our services in more detail, contact a member of the team at Homm CPS anytime.