Whether you are hiring a professional and would like to know how they are going to perform the task or would like to know for your own DIY purposes there are certain aspects to interior painting that are usually followed. Here are some step-by-step instructions to the process of interior painting.
1. Plan – You need to first envision the finished paint job; how you imagine it will look once it’s completed. This will allow you to give determine what is needed in terms of equipment and materials or for you to instruct a contractor on what you would like them to do. You may just want to keep it simple if or go all out with new designs and styles.
2. Calculate – Once the type of paint has been decided on you must then figure out the quantity that is needed. This requires measuring all the parts of any room that will be painted meaning it can take a considerable amount of time and effort. All non-flat surfaces must also be accounted for as they will need more paint due to their extra square feet. If fireplaces and doors are to be painted then that will be extra. There would be nothing worse than having less paint than is needed when you begin the job. Measuring the surface area not only benefits in calculating the amount of paint needed but also how much the whole task will cost and how long it will take.
3. Prepare – Smooth the surface areas with a sander and fill in any holes. Apply a primer to the wall so as the paint applies more evenly and effectively. Cover any furniture left in the room that you have been unable to remove so that they do not become damaged by the paint. Open all windows to act as ventilation for the toxic fumes. Don’t forget to wear coveralls and a mask to protect your own health. If you are using a ladder make sure to have appropriate footwear on.
4. Paint – Depending on what you are using, preferably a roller, you will need to make smooth vertical strokes working your way from side to side. A hand brush is necessary for curved areas that are hard to reach. Once you are finished you may need to go over the area again to apply a second coat. It can then take the rest of the day to dry so you should keep all children and pets away from that room until it is safe to be in there.
If you are hiring an experienced contractor then they will be able to determine how long a task will usually take based on their experience and give you a price for completion. For DIY painting, however, you will be able to determine the length by doing a small area of a room and subtracting how long it took from the overall square feet to be done. Always include time for the paint to dry in your overall time evaluation. The price will depend on how much paint and equipment you need. Remember you can try to borrow whatever you need of friends or neighbours so as to cut down on costs.
