What to Consider when Painting a Home
Taking measurements of the spaces needing paint should be the first consideration before selecting paint colors and finishes for a home.
Many people enjoy the anticipation of a freshly painted house. But before they dive into the process, there are a few considerations about painting a home.
As with any other project, the homeowner needs to plan for their painting project carefully. They need to:
Make a budget
Measure the space to be painted to determine how much paint is needed
Research brands and finishes to understand the best paint for the application
These are just a few considerations critical to a positive outcome and should be carefully considered. To understand the overall cost of the painting task at hand, homeowners will have to factor in the following:
Square footage
Taking measurements of the spaces needing paint should be the first consideration before selecting paint colors and finishes for a home. To calculate the square footage of a space, measure the wall’s length and width, then multiply the two numbers together to determine the square footage of the walls.
Wall length x wall height = square footage of the wall
Repeat this step with each wall in the space. Once the square footage of each wall is determined, add the square footage of the walls together to estimate the room’s total square footage.
Note that this does not include spaces for doors and windows. Repeat the measurement process for all windows and doorways and subtract that total from the wall’s square footage.
One gallon of paint covers about 400 square feet.
Selecting paint colors
To begin, choose paint chips to bring home. Tape them to the walls around the space and look at them throughout the day to see them in various lights. Once the homeowner has narrowed their color choices, visit the local paint store or home improvement store for small paint samples. Paint a test patch in several locations around the space to see how they look at various times of the day.
Credible paint brands
Many argue that any brand of paint is good enough. However, homeowners should buy paint from credible brands that are well known. The manufacturers test their paints against numerous environmental elements to ensure long-lasting coverage. Often, better brands offer a warranty.
Also, choose brands that fit well for the surface. Ensure that the chosen brand is free from harmful chemicals and fumes. It’s worth doing a little legwork to ensure the paint is the best available.
Paint cost
Painting is expensive but worth the investment in the long run. Think about value for the money. When selecting a paint brand, the more expensive paint is often better in the long run because it lasts longer, while less expensive paints may require a third coat and last few years. Look for paint that is rated to last up to ten years.
Compare costs beyond the price of a gallon of paint across several suppliers and brands before buying.
Paint finishes
Don’t just buy any paint. Not all paints are suitable for specific weather and for certain surfaces. Buy a credible brand that is long-lasting. When choosing paints for a home’s interior, choose paints with a semi- or high-gloss finish. These paints are easier to maintain and easier to clean. They are also perfect for the bathroom, kitchen, or living room.
Supplies and safety equipment
For the homeowner, there are considerations beyond the paint. There are necessary supplies to ensure a positive outcome. The following are the minimal supplies needed:
Brushes: Buy brushes that have long bristles. For water-based paint, buy nylon brushes; for oil-based paints, buy natural brushes.
Drop cloths: to protect furniture and flooring
Tape and paper: to cover wood trim and doors
Paint rollers: buy a variety of sizes to handle the spaces to be painted
Ladder: for the hard-to-reach places
The cost of these supplies will also be an area for consideration. However, the estimated cost may also cover supplies for homeowners planning to hire a painting contractor.
Estimate from reputable painting contractors
Hiring a contractor can be an overwhelming prospect. Talk with trusted friends, family members, and neighbors to see who they have used. Check online reviews and ask the prospective contractor for a portfolio, insurance certifications, and licenses.
Have more than one contractor offer a bid for the work to help the homeowner gauge what it costs to paint their home. Compare the overall cost, timelines, and what each bid entails. Ask the contractor about the process they use. For instance, if they use spray paint, it can cost more, so make sure everything is clearly outlined before signing a contract.
Mark’s Painting offers residential and commercial painting for Tampa, Hillsborough, and Pinellas County. Exterior painting, including priming, sealing, plaster & drywall service, pressure washing. We paint interiors, including ceilings, walls, trim, baseboard, fireplaces, mantels, paneling, wainscoting, doors, and windows. We offer wallpaper removal, caulking, staining and varnishing, refinishing, texturing, specialty finishes, and more. We are licensed and insured. Call us at (813) 831-5433.
