A fresh coat of paint is one of the most effective ways to transform your home, but when it comes to painting, doing it yourself isn’t always as simple as it looks. At Smyth Painting Company we’ve seen our fair share of “DIY disasters” that end up costing homeowners more time, money, and stress than expected!
Here are some of the most frequent problems people run into before, during, or after a DIY painting project, and a few tips on how to avoid them:
1. Poor Surface Preparation
One of the most common DIY mistakes is skipping the prep work. Walls need to be cleaned, holes patched, and often sanded or primed before painting. Skipping these steps can lead to peeling, bubbling, or uneven color application.
Pro Tip: Proper prep is half the job. Spend time cleaning, repairing, and priming to ensure your paint adheres and looks professional.
2. Using the Wrong Paint or Tools
Not all paint is created equal, and not every brush or roller will work on every surface. Using interior paint outside, or a cheap brush on a detailed trim job, can lead to poor results.
Pro Tip: Invest in high-quality tools and make sure you’re choosing the right paint finish (e.g., satin, semi-gloss, matte) for the room and conditions.
3. Underestimating the Time Commitment
A weekend project can easily stretch into a week or more when unexpected issues arise. Many homeowners find themselves overwhelmed by the size of the job once they get started.
Pro Tip: Plan ahead. Allocate extra time for prep, drying between coats, and touch-ups. If you’re working on multiple rooms, tackle one at a time.
4. Uneven Coats and Streaking
Without the proper technique, it’s easy to end up with visible roller marks, streaks, or patchy coverage. These issues are especially noticeable in natural light or on dark-colored walls.
Pro Tip: Use the “W” or “M” technique with a roller and always maintain a wet edge to avoid lap marks.
5. Paint Drips and Spills
Drips on trim, splatters on floors, and missed spots on ceilings are all too common in DIY projects. These mistakes are often hard to fix after the paint dries.
Pro Tip: Use painter’s tape to protect edges, cover all flooring and furniture, and don’t overload your brush or roller with paint.
Ultimate Pro Tip: Hire Professionals!
DIY painting can be rewarding, but it can also lead to costly mistakes. At Smyth Painting Company, we take pride in delivering flawless finishes, clean job sites, and stress-free service. Whether you’re repainting a historic home or refreshing a single room, our team is here to help!
Ready to skip the stress?
Call us today for a free estimate and let us handle the hard work so you can enjoy the results.
401.662.2440
