Painting is a quick and easy way to freshen up a room. Painting with today’s modern paints isn’t technically difficult and doesn’t require specialist training.
Here’s five easy tips to make interior painting easier and quicker.
1. Prepare Prepare Prepare
Preparation is key, so it’s important to take your time and prepare the walls correctly before applying any paint. A fine sand with 220 grit sandpaper should remove any dust or minor blemishes in the wall, with larger holes and cracks requiring a quick repair with stopping compound. Any freshly Gib-stopped surfaces can be sanded with our Gib sanding unit. Go to for more information.
Remember to ensure all the surfaces are thoroughly cleaned and dust free. A wipe with a damp sponge is great for removing any remaining dust, including surfaces that will be masked.
2. Paint is not just paint
The local paint shops in Upper Hutt are staffed by some wonderfully knowledgeable people, who can recommend the right paint for your application. You may also want to consider trialing a few test pots to gauge which shade of colour is the best for your room, particularly under different lights. And it’s usually better to spend a bit more buying good quality paint. It’ll go on easier, look better and last longer.
3. Mask away
It’s worth taking time to mask fittings, skirting boards and architraves to reduce the risk of paint splatter or accidental mistakes from the roller. Take your time and ensure the tape is in full contact with the surface to minimise the risk of the paint bleeding through.
4. Love thy tin
If you are painting directly from the tin, a few drips will probably cover the paint code and label. To help with reordering, write the paint code on the base of the tin: there’s less chance of it getting obscured. You might also like to add where the paint got used (kids bedroom wall, ceiling etc)
It’s also worth while putting nail holes in the rim of the tin to allow any excess paint to drain back into the tin. It makes placing the lid back on the tin easier and reduces the chance of getting lumps of dried paint in the mix.
5. Alternate brush with roller
When painting the wall we find it’s best to ‘cut-in’ with the brush then use the roller in the immediate area before the paint dries. It may take a little longer but it’ll give you a better finish and reduce the risk of any brush marks showing through.
When painting by brush, try applying the paint parallel and adjacent to the masked area first, then brush the paint to the masked area while brushing parallel to the line. This will reduce the risk of placing excess paint on the masking tape which may bleed through. Alternatively use the roller, overlapping the painted area in a “W” or “V” pattern in an area no bigger than a 1m2 area.
Remember we’ve got a full range of gear to help with your painting projects. Check out our painting projects page at or give us a call on 528 4473
