Spray painting is a popular technique for transforming the look of homes. It offers a smooth, even finish and proves to be more efficient than traditional brush or roller methods. However, spray painting requires precision and proper preparation to achieve professional results. Many DIY enthusiasts make mistakes that can lead to unsatisfactory finishes or even damage to surfaces.
In this blog, we’ll discuss four common mistakes to avoid when spray painting your home and why professional residential painting in Perth is necessary for your project to run smoothly.
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Skipping Surface Preparation
Proper surface preparation ensures that your paint will last longer and look more professional. Many people skip this step, leading to uneven finishes or poor adhesion.
- Dust and dirt: Surfaces covered in dust, dirt, or grease will prevent paint from sticking properly. Always clean surfaces thoroughly with soap and water or a specialised cleaner to ensure they are free of contaminants.
- Old paint and peeling areas: If the surface has old, peeling paint, it’s important to sand it down or scrape it off. Applying spray paint over these areas will only highlight the imperfections.
- Priming: Many people skip priming, especially when painting over previously painted surfaces. Primer creates a smooth base and helps the paint adhere better, resulting in a more durable finish.
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Using the Wrong Type of Paint
Not all paints are suitable for spraying, and using the wrong one can lead to clogging, an uneven finish, or peeling. Read the paint label to ensure it is suitable for spray application.
- Indoor vs outdoor paint: Make sure you use paint that is formulated for the specific environment you are working in. Indoor paints are not designed to withstand the elements and will degrade quickly if used outside.
- Paint consistency: Spray paints require a thinner consistency than traditional paints. Using thick, unthinned paint can clog your sprayer and result in splattering or dripping.
- High-quality paint: Investing in high-quality spray paint ensures better coverage, durability, and a smoother finish. Cheaper paints may require more coats and can lead to a less satisfactory result.
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Holding the Sprayer Too Close or Too Far
Another common mistake is not maintaining the correct distance from the surface. This can lead to uneven coverage or undesirable finishes. Only the residential painters in Perth know the correct methods.
- Too close: Holding the sprayer too close to the surface can result in runs, drips, and overly thick patches of paint. These imperfections can be difficult to fix and ruin the smooth finish.
- Too far: If you hold the sprayer too far away, the paint may dry before it reaches the surface, leading to a dusty, uneven texture known as “dry spray.”
- Not Masking Off Areas Properly
Another frequent mistake is failing to mask off areas that you don’t want to be painted. Spray paint can travel farther than you think, and even a slight breeze or misdirected spray can cause overspray on unintended surfaces.
- Tape and plastic sheeting: Use high-quality painter’s tape and plastic sheeting to cover windows, doors, trim, and furniture. Ensure the tape is securely fastened to avoid paint seeping through.
- Drop cloths: Always use drop cloths to protect floors and nearby surfaces from paint splatter. Make sure they are weighted down to prevent them from shifting or moving.
Looking For Expert Residential Painters in Perth?
Pete The Painter Perth is your man! Call 0415 922 743 to discuss your painting needs. We also provide a FREE estimate. Hurry-get in touch today!
