No home improvement project revives, beautifies and protects a house as quickly and effectively as a fresh coat of paint. It’s also one of the most cost-effective projects, with a professional paint job costing around $3,073 for a 1,500-square-foot home, according to HomeAdvisor. Nevertheless, painting a house is not an easy task and requires planning, preparation and proper execution to achieve the desired results.
While a fresh coat of paint enhances curb appeal, it also protects the exterior structure from moisture and other weather threats that can cause damage and premature aging. It’s an essential maintenance item that should be done regularly to keep the structure in good condition and prevent costly repairs.
The exterior of a home should be painted paint your house with high-quality materials that can withstand the elements, such as vinyl, aluminum and steel. In addition, the color should compliment other features of the house, such as the roof, windows and doors, landscaping, brick and stonework, and architectural details. When properly executed, a good paint job can last for years, and it helps to increase the value of the property, as well as provide a barrier against the elements.
In general, it’s best to avoid extremely bright or dark colors on a home’s exterior. Dark colors tend to fade faster than lighter ones, and bright hues can be glaring in the sun. Instead, opt for neutral tones that can be paired with a variety of colors and accents.
When it comes to the interior of a home, the main goal should be to create a welcoming and comfortable space that suits the homeowners’ tastes. If the current colors aren’t a good match, they can be replaced with new ones that are more suited to the residents’ preferences. Changing the colors of an entire room can make a huge difference, and it’s important that the new colors work well with the existing furnishings.
One of the most common mistakes people make when selecting paint colors is choosing a shade that’s too light. A paint sample looks much different in natural sunlight than it does indoors, so be sure to test your colors on poster boards and outside in the sunshine before making a final choice.
Before starting to paint, take a walk around the house to determine what areas need to be painted and the amount of detail work that needs to be done. Then, make a list of the tools and supplies needed to complete the job. If you’re working on a large project, it’s recommended that you work with another person to help with the speed and efficiency of the process. Whether you’re using a brush, roller or paint sprayer, be sure to use the appropriate safety gear and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. For example, when using a pressure washer or paint sprayer, it’s important to wear personal protective equipment, including eye protection and gloves. In addition, if your house was built before 1978, you may need to remove old lead-based paint before painting it.