8 Painting Tricks Home Renovation Pros Don’t Want You to Know
A fresh coat of paint can completely transform your home. Professional painters charge anywhere between $3 and $6 per square foot of space. That shakes out to be $20-$50 an hour. However, there are some painting tricks that the pros know that you don’t. Luckily, we have eight tips to share with you so that you can DIY your painting and revamp any space in your home.
1. Use Tinted Primer for Better Coverage
Most people use white primer, but professionals know that a tinted primer creates a richer, more even base. Adding a small amount of your final paint color to the primer improves coverage, reducing the number of coats needed. This trick is especially helpful when painting over dark colors or bold patterns. A tinted primer also helps the final color appear more vibrant and true to its shade.
2. Always Sand Between Coats for a Smooth Finish
One of the biggest secrets to a professional-looking paint job is sanding between coats. Lightly sanding the surface with fine-grit sandpaper removes imperfections and creates a smooth base for the next layer. This step is especially crucial for glossy or uneven surfaces, ensuring better paint adhesion. Skipping this step can lead to a rough, uneven finish with visible brush strokes. Pro tip: Always wipe away dust after sanding to prevent debris from getting trapped in the paint.
3. Use Vaseline to Protect Small Details
Painters often struggle to keep paint off hardware, hinges, and other small details. Instead of spending time taping off tiny areas, apply a thin layer of Vaseline to anything you don’t want painted. The petroleum jelly creates a barrier that prevents paint from sticking, allowing you to wipe it off easily after finishing. This trick is perfect for doorknobs, light switches, and window frames.
4. Cut Painter’s Tape with a Putty Knife for Sharp Lines
Painter’s tape is essential for clean edges, but professionals know how to make it even more effective. After applying the tape, run a putty knife along the edge to seal it tightly to the surface. This prevents paint from bleeding underneath, ensuring crisp, sharp lines. When removing the tape, pull it off at a 45-degree angle for the best results. Pro tip: If any paint does seep through, a fine artist’s brush can clean up mistakes easily.
5. Use a Drop of Dish Soap in Paint to Prevent Streaks
If you’ve ever noticed streaks or brush marks in your paint, a simple fix can make all the difference. Adding a few drops of dish soap to your paint helps it glide on smoothly and reduces brush marks. This trick works especially well with latex paints, which can dry too quickly and leave streaks. The soap helps level out the paint, creating a more even application.
6. Freeze Brushes and Rollers to Keep Them Fresh
Instead of washing out brushes and rollers between coats, pros use a clever trick to keep them fresh. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or a plastic bag, then store them in the freezer. This prevents the paint from drying out, so you can pick up right where you left off without cleaning. Let the tools thaw for a few minutes before using them again.
7. Mix Paint Cans Together for a Uniform Color
Even if you buy multiple cans of the same paint color, slight variations can exist between batches. To avoid inconsistent shades on your walls, pros always mix all cans together in a larger bucket before starting. This process, known as “boxing” paint, ensures a consistent color throughout the entire project. It’s especially useful for large rooms or open spaces where color differences might be noticeable.
8. Roll Paint in a “W” Pattern for Even Coverage
Many people roll paint in straight lines, but pros use a different technique for a flawless finish. Rolling in a “W” or “M” pattern ensures even coverage and prevents streaks. Start by making a large “W” shape on the wall, then fill it in without lifting the roller. This method distributes the paint more evenly and eliminates harsh lines. It also helps blend overlapping areas for a seamless look.
Master These Secrets for a Pro-Level Paint Job
You might think that painting a room or your entire house seems like a straightforward job. It can get tiresome. These painting tricks can make things easier to manage and help you achieve the look you want. (The pros use them, so why wouldn’t you?)
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Drew Blankenship is a former Porsche technician who writes and develops content full-time. He lives in North Carolina, where he enjoys spending time with his wife and two children. While Drew no longer gets his hands dirty modifying Porsches, he still loves motorsport and avidly watches Formula 1.