Painting 101

Painting is one of the least expensive ways you can make a home feel refreshed and provide a stellar first impression. If painting is on your “to-do” list, whether it is to get a home ready for the market or just to spruce up a room or two, there are some things you should consider:

1. Color – If you are going to be moving in the near future, consider colors that are will appeal to the widest pool of buyers – usually neutrals. Note, neutral doesn’t necessarily mean boring and doesn’t necessarily mean you have to stick to white, beige, or the newest option, greige. However, choosing a color that buyers feel they can live with for a year or two will pull potential buyers in so they can see the structure of the rooms and layout themselves and not be jarred by the palette. A little color can be used, but the key is to keep the intensity of the colors down.
2. Tape, tape, tape! – Sometimes it seems that at least half the time it takes to paint is taken up by taping off all the surfaces you don’t want painted. This step is critical and can save you hours of detailed clean-up down the road. Also, finding the right tape for the job and making sure it adheres properly to the surface is essential.
3. Dropcloth – Even the best painters use a dropcloth, especially if they are using a roller. Small droplets of paint can fly off when rolling and can hit the floor or your furniture. The mess may need an easy wipe-up with wood floors or vinyl, but carpet and furniture is a different issue.
4. The Right Tools – Once you have your area taped off and your dropcloth down, make sure you have the right tools in the room with you. You should avoid having to step away from the project to find something or even worse, have to make a run to the store. Do you have the right brushes, rollers, paint tray, something to hold a small amount of paint if you are up on a ladder or stepstool, wet paper towels if you need a quick wipe up?
5. Sheen matters – Eggshell, satin, gloss, semi-gloss…it can all be very confusing. Sheen basically refers to the amount of light the finish will reflect once it is dried. Flat paint (which is a term most brands use) is usually the least reflective and high gloss is usually the most Paints with a higher sheen are usually more durable and can be wiped down. However, instead of choosing a paint sheen based on future wall maintenance needs, take a look at the wall first. Is the drywall riddled with pockmarks and texture inconsistencies? Drip marks from past paint jobs? In that case, consider choosing something with less sheen – even flat. The greater the reflection the more visible the defects. Furthermore, many higher-end paints are easier to clean, even with a flat finish.

One of the best things about paint is if you don’t love it, it isn’t difficult to make a change. If you are selling, don’t underestimate the power of paint! Paint well and enjoy the results! I would be happy to discuss your paint options with you. Please call or text: 253-222-2626 or email john@altitude-re.com.