Here at Homm CPS, we find a lot of our customers (new and existing) are still buying into any number of bogus home painting myths. Whether we’re painting exteriors in Chevy Chase, MD, or enhancing interiors in Washington, DC, we come across the same misleading misconceptions on a regular basis.
Unfortunately, putting your trust in any of these myths can have a huge impact on the final result. Irrespective of the size and nature of the job, a handful of insights from the experts can go a long way.
So with this in mind, here’s a brief overview of seven more painting myths you might be buying into, but really shouldn’t be:
Primer is necessary when you apply multiple coats of paint
First up, this is one of the most common myths we encounter across the entire region. There are so many DIYers out there who genuinely believe an initial thin coat of paint can be used instead of primer. Or to put it another way, you don’t need primer if you intend to apply multiple coats of paint.
Sadly, this simply isn’t the case. Primer is specifically designed to provide the perfect surface the paint to adhere to and create a flawless finish. Paint is a completely different product, meaning you won’t get the same smooth and consistent result by using extra paint instead of primer.
It’s not necessary to sand your walls when using primer
Likewise, just because you are using primer does not mean you can skip the preparation stage. In this instance, we mean giving the surface you intend to paint a quick once-over with some fine sandpaper.
This applies particularly when dealing with potentially greasy, glossy or uneven surfaces. All of which should be sanded gently prior to priming and painting.
You cannot get away with a single coat of paint…ever
Not true, as it depends entirely on the quality of the paint you are using and where you are applying it. There are some fantastic quality paints on the market right now that need just one coat to look immaculate.
This is also one of the reasons why primer should be considered essential. By using quality primer, you (sometimes) eliminate the requirement for additional coats of paint to achieve the flawless finish you’re looking for.
Dark colors should never be used in smaller rooms
On one hand, it is true to say that certain darker colors and schemes can make a small room look even smaller. On the other, you could argue that it comes entirely down to your choice of colors, where you apply them and how you combine them with one another.
Darker walls can actually make a room look spacious and inviting if complemented with light-colored furniture, strategic floor coverings and plenty of windows. Don’t be afraid of the dark – just be careful with it!
Painted ceilings make rooms seem smaller
Again, it depends entirely on the colors you choose and how you compliment them with everything else around the room. For example, a light blue ceiling has the potential to make a smaller room feel bigger than it actually is.
As a rule of thumb, choose a shade for the ceiling that is around one or two shades darker than your walls. Get it right and it can be surprisingly effective.
There’s no point painting your home before you sell it
Fair enough, assuming you don’t want to get the best possible price for it. Across the board, real estate agents and home staging experts universally recommend a fresh coat of paint prior to opening your home to potential buyers.
Keep things simple and do your best to produce something of a blank canvas they’ll envisage doing whatever they want with. And ensure you leave plenty of time after the paint job for the place to air our fully.
Hiring professional painters is a waste of money
Last up, it’s natural to assume that hiring professional painters constitutes an unnecessary expense. In reality, it could actually save you money on the cost of painting your home.
DIY painting can be cost-effective, but you still need to purchase all the equipment needed to get the job done. Plus, you won’t get access to exclusive trade prices on paint, primers and so on. In terms of overall value for money, hiring professional painters can be a uniquely economic option.
Call for a Quote…
Whether ready to go ahead or simply considering a painting project around the home, we’d be happy to hear from you anytime.
Call the team at Homm CPS for a quick quotation, or to discuss your requirements in more detail.