Painting Tips for Lincoln Park Homeowners

Many Lincoln Park homeowners shudder at the thought of interior painting. It is considering a chore: tedious, boring and not much fun. However, by utilizing the following tips, you can decrease painting time and get to the activities that you prefer. Of course you can save the most time by calling a Lincoln Park interior painting contractor, but if you are determined to D.Y.I., then use the following to minimize time spent holding a brush.

1. Don’t try to do it all in one day. Set aside some time a day or two ahead of painting day to prep the area that you will be painting. Some of these preparations include moving furniture, laying down protective sheeting, taping trim and electrical outlets and gathering all painting supplies into one place.
2. Don’t try to paint over damaged walls. Continuing on the first step, check your walls before you get ready to paint. Look for holes, cracks or other damaged areas. You may need to use a drywall repair kit and do some sanding before you are ready to paint.
3. Use the right materials! Certain paint brushes are made for certain kinds of paint and help ensure an even application. Oil-based paints need natural bristles; water-based or latex paints work best with synthetic bristles. For large areas, try using a foam roller. Your Lincoln Park paint store should have a wide selection of brushes to go with your paint.
4. If you want a professional look, call your Lincoln Park painting contractor. But for a nicer application of the paint, consider using a primer on your walls. This helps keep older color from “bleeding” through, especially if the new paint is lighter than the old. Many paints have a primer built in already, eliminating the need for this step.
5. When prepping the room for painting, it may be helpful to use painter’s tape to keep paint off of molding, electrical outlets, door handles and window frames. This is easily recognizable by it’s blue color and once the paint dries, you can simply peel it off for sharp lines.
6. Remember, paint is messy no matter how well you prepare for it. Just for backup, keep a roll of paper towels or old rags handy. It is easier to wipe up spilled paint than trying to deal with it after it has dried!
7. Don’t just toss any left over paint. Keep it tightly sealed in a cool dark place to use for touch ups. Even if you just keep a small container of it, you will be happy later on when you see normal wear and tear happen.

Again, for the best results it is wise to call a Lincoln Park painter. However, by following the previous tips, even a D.Y.I. job can look pretty.