Even your best friends are probably “busy” if you ask for two things: moving and painting. Painting your house can seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be! With the right preparation and tools, you can easily give your home a fresh, new look.
Painting your home can be a cost-effective way to freshen up your living space. So, rather than investing in a long-term renovation, consider a new coat of paint! Every year, a new paint trend hits the scene, so it makes sense to switch it up every once in a while.
Instead of feeling intimidated, let’s break down the process and equip you with all the knowledge and tools you need to tackle this project with confidence. This guide will cover everything from essential paint supplies and choosing the right colors to surface preparation and a step-by-step painting guide. By the end, you’ll be ready to transform your home with a fresh coat of paint!
Table of Contents
Essential Paint Supplies
Choosing The Right Paint For Your House
Paint Trends
How to Choose the Right Paint Finish
How to Tell the Difference
Color Impact
Tips for Choosing Paint Colors
Use our Paint Studio for a Better Visualization
Surface Preparation for Painting Your Home
Why is surface preparation important?
Paint Supplies for Surface Preparation
Owenhouse Ace Paint FAQ
How to Paint Your House: Step-by-Step Guide
Additional Tips
Your Perfectly Painted Home is Closer Than You Think!
Essential Paint Supplies
Before you start, gather your materials. Here are some essential paint supplies you’ll need:
- Brushes: Different sizes for various tasks, including trim, cutting in, and detailing.
- Rollers: Choose the nap size based on your wall texture. Benjamin Moore makes great brushes and rollers!
- Paint Trays: For holding and rolling paint.
- Painter’s Tape: For clean lines and protecting surfaces.
- Drop Cloths: To protect your floors and furniture.
- Sandpaper: For smoothing surfaces and removing imperfections.
- High-Quality Paints and Primers: These ensure a beautiful and long-lasting finish.
At Owenhouse Ace, we offer a wide range of paint supplies from top brands like Benjamin Moore and Clark + Kensington. Our knowledgeable staff can help you choose the right products for your project.
Choosing the Right Paint for Your House
The right paint can make all the difference in the look and feel of your space. From colors to sheen to dirt-resistant formulas, there are lots of things to consider. Color might even have the ability to impact your mood! Picking the right one for the room is an important part of the painting process. Here are some factors to consider.
Paint Trends
You might not put much weight into color trends, but it’s a great place to start if you’re in the process of painting your house. Benjamin Moore releases annual paint color trends that can give you inspiration for your home. Of course, every paint producer has their own opinion on what the color is, so take it with a grain of salt! That being said, there are certain timeless paint trends that could help you pick the right color palette. Warm whites, sage greens, and light grey are simple and elegant for any room.
How to Choose the Right Paint Finish
The finish you choose for your paint can significantly impact the look and feel of your space, not just in terms of color but also in terms of texture and sheen. Paints that possess a sheen will bounce back light, while those lacking a sheen will absorb light. There are two main categories of paint sheen: Flat, matte, or semi-gloss. Flat/matte paints absorb more light than they reflect, resulting in a non-reflective surface. On the other hand, semi-gloss and gloss paints reflect light, providing a lustrous and shiny appearance.
Here’s a breakdown of the different types of paint finishes and how they look:
1. Flat/Matte:
Appearance: No shine, velvety texture.
Best for: Bedrooms, living rooms, ceilings.
Pros: Hides imperfections, creates a soft and cozy atmosphere.
Cons: Easily marks, not ideal for high-traffic areas or surfaces requiring frequent cleaning.
2. Eggshell:
Appearance: Very slight sheen, almost flat, but with a hint of reflection.
Best for: Living rooms, dining rooms, hallways.
Pros: More durable than flat, hides imperfections well, offers a subtle elegance.
Cons: Not as washable as satin or gloss finishes.
3. Satin:
Appearance: Low sheen, silky texture.
Best for: Kitchens, bathrooms, trim, doors, cabinets.
Pros: Easy to clean, reflects light well, adds a touch of sophistication.
Cons: May show imperfections more than flat or eggshell finishes.
4. Semi-Gloss:
Appearance: Moderate sheen, smooth texture.
Best for: Bathrooms, kitchens, trim, doors, cabinets, furniture.
Pros: Highly durable, washable, resists stains and moisture.
Cons: Can be too shiny for some rooms, may show imperfections.
5. Gloss:
Appearance: High shine, reflective texture.
Best for: Doors, cabinets, trim, baseboards, furniture.
Pros: Extremely durable, easy to clean, highly reflective.
Cons: Shows imperfections the most, can be too shiny for large surfaces.
How to Tell the Difference
If you’re wondering if these are all just fancy paint terms or actual nuances in the product, here’s how you can tell the difference between paint finishes.
- Look at a paint sample under different lighting: This will help you see the true sheen of the paint.
- Compare different samples side-by-side: This will make it easier to see the differences in the levels of sheen.
- Ask a paint expert at Owenhouse Ace: They can help you choose the right finish for your project based on your specific needs and preferences.
Remember, the best finish for your project depends on the specific room you’re painting and your desired look. Consider factors like lighting, traffic flow, and desired atmosphere when making your decision. When in doubt, ask one of our paint experts! We’re here to help.
Color Impact
Color is more than just aesthetics; it’s a powerful tool that can influence mood, evoke emotions, and create different atmospheres in your home. Choosing the right paint colors for each room is crucial for creating a cohesive and inviting space.
Warm colors like reds, oranges, and yellows tend to be energizing and stimulating, making them ideal for living rooms, kitchens, and entryways. Cooler shades like blues, greens, and purples are calming and relaxing, making them perfect for bedrooms, bathrooms, and studies. Neutral tones are timeless. Whites, grays, and beiges offer a serene and clean feel, working well in any room.
Tips for Choosing Paint Colors:
- Consider the room’s function: What activities will take place in this space? Choose colors that complement the intended use.
- Think about the natural light: Does the room get plenty of sunlight or is it mainly shaded? Choose colors that work well with the existing light.
- Consider the size of the room: Lighter colors can make a small room feel larger, while darker colors can make a large room feel more intimate.
- Use the color wheel as a guide: Complementary colors opposite each other on the wheel can create a bold contrast, while analogous colors next to each other can create a harmonious flow.
Not sure how the colors will look with furniture you already own? Rent a color fan from Owenhouse and bring it home! Owenhouse has a number of paint fan decks that you may take home for a $20 refundable deposit to help you find the right color for the job. We love Benjamin Moore for the unique color pallet, and the AURA line is a bestseller! It comes in a variety of sheens, and you only need one coat.
Use our Paint Studio for a Better Visualization
Discovering the perfect paint color for your space is effortless with ACE’s Paint Studio. Whether you seek inspiration or want to preview your favorite colors in a room, our visualizer tool simplifies the decision-making process.
Step 1: Upload a photo or select one of the interior or exterior images provided.
Step 2: Select the color you’d like to view. You can also choose to compare two different colors on the same image, making it that much simpler to arrive at your final decision!
Surface Preparation for Painting Your Home
Proper surface preparation is crucial for a lasting paint job. It’s a crucial step to make sure the walls are ready, the floorboards are protected, and everything is set up for smooth painting before you get your hands dirty. Before you dive into transforming your space with a fresh coat of paint, remember that a crucial step is preparing the canvas! Just like an artist wouldn’t paint on a dirty, uneven surface, your walls need proper preparation for a beautiful and long-lasting finish.
Why is surface preparation important?
Ensures better paint adhesion: Proper preparation creates a smooth, clean surface for the paint to adhere to, preventing peeling and chipping over time.
Provides a flawless finish: By filling in cracks and holes and sanding away imperfections, you ensure a smooth and even finish that reflects the true color and texture of your chosen paint.
Increases durability: A well-prepared surface helps the paint resist moisture, stains, and wear and tear, extending its lifespan and saving you from having to repaint sooner.
Paint Supplies for Surface Preparation:
- Drop cloths
- Painter’s tape
- Cleaning supplies
- Sponge or mop
- Sandpaper
- Spackling paste or joint compound
- Putty knife
- Primer
- Ladder
- Safety glasses
- Gloves
Owenhouse Ace Paint FAQ:
For even more specific guidance, consult the Owenhouse Ace Paint FAQ section. Here you can find detailed information on:
- How to remove electrical plates, switch covers, and other hardware.
- How to wash and clean different types of walls.
- How to choose the right primer for your project.
- And much more!
How to Paint Your House: Step-by-Step Guide
Now for the fun part! Here’s our step-by-step guide on how to start painting.
Step 1: Clear the Room
- Remove all furniture and other belongings from the room.
- If any large furniture pieces are too difficult to move, place them in the center of the room and cover them with drop cloths.
- Protect the floor with clean drop cloths, overlapping them at the edges. Secure the drop cloths with tape to prevent them from slipping.
Step 2: Put down coverage
- Use painter’s tape to mask off any areas you don’t want to paint, such as baseboards, trim, doors, and windows.
- Press the tape firmly against the surface to ensure a clean and crisp line.
- Cover any light fixtures, electrical outlets, and switch plates with plastic or painter’s tape.
Step 3: Wash the walls
- Clean the walls with a mild detergent and water solution.
- Use a sponge or mop to remove dirt, dust, cobwebs, and any other debris.
- Allow the walls to dry completely before proceeding.
Step 4: Fix imperfections
- Fill any holes, cracks, or dents with spackling paste or joint compound.
- Use a putty knife to apply the filler smoothly and evenly.
- Allow the filler to dry completely and then sand it smooth with fine-grit sandpaper.
Step 5: Apply primer
- Apply a coat of high-quality primer to the entire wall surface.
- Choose a primer specifically formulated for the type of paint you’re using.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and drying times.
Step 6: Mix the paint
- Stir the paint thoroughly before opening the can.
- Use a paint stick or mixer to ensure that the pigment is evenly distributed.
- If you’re using multiple cans of the same color, mix them together to avoid any variations in shade.
Step 7: Paint the edges
- Use a brush to paint a 2-inch strip along the edges of the walls, including the ceiling, floors, and trim.
- This is known as “cutting in” and helps to create a clean and finished look.
- Use smooth, even strokes and feather out the edges of the paint to avoid harsh lines.
Step 8: Roll the paint
- Pour a small amount of paint into a paint tray.
- Roll the paint roller back and forth in the tray until it is evenly coated.
- Roll the paint onto the wall in an “N” or zigzag pattern, working your way from the top of the wall down.
- Overlap your rolls slightly to ensure that the entire surface is covered evenly.
- Work in sections and avoid rolling over the same area too many times to prevent the paint from dripping.
- Apply a second coat of paint if necessary, following the manufacturer’s instructions for drying times.
Step 9: Let it dry
- Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the painter’s tape and drop cloths.
- Refer to the paint manufacturer’s instructions for specific drying times.
- Once the paint is dry, you can enjoy your freshly painted room!
Additional Tips
- Use a drop cloth to protect your ladder from paint splatters.
- Wash your brushes and rollers thoroughly after each use.
- Open windows and doors to ensure proper ventilation while painting.
- Need to know how much paint to buy? We can help at Owenhouse! Benjamin Moore also has a fun online calculator.
- Pro Tip for calculating how much paint you need: Figure out how tall your ceilings and window openings are. Online guides and other calculator tools usually assume 8’ ceilings.
Ask us for help! Our paint experts at Owenhouse Ace will ensure that your painting project is a success!
- Pro Tip for calculating how much paint you need: Figure out how tall your ceilings and window openings are. Online guides and other calculator tools usually assume 8’ ceilings.
Your Perfectly Painted Home is Closer Than You Think!
Congratulations! By following the steps outlined in this guide, you have the knowledge and tools to tackle your next painting project with confidence. Remember, a fresh coat of paint can completely transform your space and enhance its beauty and functionality.
At Owenhouse Ace, we’re more than just a hardware store; we’re your one-stop shop for all your painting needs. Our knowledgeable staff can help you choose the right paint, explore countless color options, and even visualize how different colors will look in your space with our state-of-the-art paint visualizer. We also offer a wide range of high-quality paint supplies, expert advice, and paint-matching services.
So, why wait? Get started on your dream paint project today and create a space you’ll love coming home to. Visit Owenhouse Ace, and let’s help you achieve the perfectly painted home you’ve always dreamed of!
