Painting your home is an important job that can take a lot of time. If the outside plaster does not cover the walls well, you might start to see problems like damp patches or peeling. Regular painting keeps your home in good condition and looking neat.
Painting is not just about making your home look bright. It also protects the walls from weather, dirt and damage. A fresh coat of paint can:
Stop damp from getting into the walls
Prevent peeling and cracking that can damage plaster or wood
Make your home look clean and tidy
Add value if you ever want to sell
Paint also acts like a shield for the house. It blocks rain, dust and sun from wearing away the surface. If you wait too long to paint, the plaster can start to crack, and repairs will cost more later.
It depends on the type of surface and how exposed it is. As a general rule:
Outside walls: every two to five years
Inside walls: every seven years
Woodwork like window frames or doors: every two to three years
The weather has a big impact too. If you live somewhere with lots of rain or strong sun, you might need to paint more often. Keeping an eye on the walls helps. Look for:
Peeling paint that comes off when you touch it
Faded colours that do not look fresh anymore
Damp or mildew on the walls
If you see these signs, it is time to paint again.
The weather matters a lot when painting outside. Dry days with mild temperatures are best. Painting in the rain is not a good idea. The paint will not stick well and might start to peel sooner.
For outdoor painting, spring and early summer work well. There is less rain and the days are warm but not too hot. Inside painting can be done any time of year, but make sure the rooms are aired out well to dry the paint.
Painting inside is a job that many people choose to do themselves. It is easier to manage because you can control the space and there is no risk of falling from a ladder.
Move furniture away from the walls
Cover floors and furniture with dust sheets or plastic covers
Clean the walls with a damp cloth to get rid of dust and dirt
Fill any cracks or holes with filler and sand them smooth
Good preparation helps the paint go on evenly and last longer. If you skip this step, the paint might look patchy or peel off sooner.
Once the walls are clean and smooth, you can start painting. Use good quality paint for the best results. It will cover better and last longer.
Here are some tips for a neat job:
Use a brush for corners and edges
Use a roller for large flat areas
Work in small sections so the paint does not dry out too quickly
Let the first coat dry fully before adding another
Painting the ceiling is often harder because you have to reach up. Use a roller with a long handle to make it easier.
Woodwork like window frames, skirting boards and doors needs special paint. Use a brush to get a smooth finish. Sand the wood lightly before you start so the paint sticks well. If you are painting over old paint, you might need to add a primer first.
Wood stairs or steps should be painted with extra care because they get a lot of use. Choose a paint that is strong and can stand up to people walking on it.
Painting outside is not always easy. The walls and woodwork face rain, sun and wind. It is important to use paint that is made for outdoor use. This paint has special ingredients to help it last longer and stay bright.
Before you start, check the weather:
Avoid painting when it is raining
Do not paint in strong sun because it can make the paint dry too fast and crack
Mild, dry weather is best
Preparation is key:
Clean the walls to remove dust and dirt
Sand down any peeling or cracked paint
Fill in cracks or holes with filler and smooth them
Use a primer on bare plaster or wood to help the paint stick
If you have a wooden fence or garden shed, these need painting too. Wood can start to rot if it is not protected. Outdoor wood paint or wood stain works best for these jobs.
Here are some tips:
Check for rot or damage before painting
Use a wire brush to remove old paint
Apply the new paint in thin layers for a smooth finish
Painting outside can be risky if you have to climb high up. Using a ladder is common, but it can be dangerous. Always check that the ladder is on flat ground and have someone nearby if you can.
For jobs that are too high to reach safely, scaffolding is a better choice. It gives you a stable platform to work from.
Good tools help you get a better finish and make the job easier. You will need:
Good quality brushes for small areas
Rollers for large flat walls and ceilings
Paint trays for rolling paint
A ladder or scaffold for high spots
Dust sheets or plastic to cover furniture and floors
There are many types of paint to choose from. For inside walls, matt or satin paint gives a soft look. For woodwork, gloss paint is tough and shiny. For outside walls, pick paint made to handle sun and rain.
Cheap paint might seem like a good idea, but it often needs more coats and does not last as long. Good quality paint might cost more at first, but it saves you time and effort in the long run.
Painting inside can be done yourself if you have time and patience. Painting outside is harder and often best left to the pros.
Doing it yourself:
Saves money on labour costs
Lets you choose your own colours and style
Can be done at your own pace
But it also means you need to:
Spend your own time and energy
Buy or rent tools and ladders
Take care not to make mistakes
Hiring a professional painter:
Faster and better results
Safe and well done, even in hard to reach areas
Uses top quality paints and tools
Less stress for you
A painter might cost more, but you get peace of mind and a perfect finish.
If you want to hire a painter, you can find one on Trusty Trades. Here is how:
Send in a free request online
Get quotes from trusted painters in your area
Read comments from other customers to find the best painter
Choose the painter who suits your job and budget
You do not have to accept any quote if you are not sure. Only choose when you are ready.
Regular painting is part of looking after your home. It keeps it looking bright and fresh. It also protects the building and can even add value if you ever want to sell.
Before you start:
Check the walls for damage
Choose the right time of year
Pick the best paint for the job
Decide if you want to do it yourself or hire help
During painting:
Work in small areas to keep it neat
Use the right tools for each part
Let each coat dry before adding another
After painting:
Clean your brushes and rollers for next time
Check for drips or missed spots
Stand back and enjoy your new look
If you want to see how much painting will cost, send in a free request. There is no obligation and you can compare offers easily.
Ready to paint? Find your painter on Trusty Trades. Send in your request and hear back from skilled painters within a day. You can see their work and read what other people say. Then choose the painter you like best. Your home will look bright and fresh in no time!