Handling a big interior painting job translates to stressful times in the home. Eager to get the disruption out of the way as quickly as possible, many of us are guilty of cutting corners when painting our home interiors, and trying to get the job done sooner rather than later.

All too often, this turns out to be a false economy, and the job needs to be done again in the future. Here are seven home interior painting tips to help you achieve the finish you desire.

1. Stopping part way through

Once you are underway on one wall, that’s it; the die is cast, the deal is sealed, you are committed. Paint one edge of one wall, and then continue until that wall is done. Only then you can have a break.

Stopping half way through a wall will prevent the paint from blending as it dries, creating unsightly darker spots on the surface.

2. Using a weak or bland primer

Filled holes and cracks will create a dull look when painted directly over, so make sure your primer is robust enough to provide cover. Tinted primers work well with more vibrant covers, adding an extra level of intensity to the interior.

3. Going overboard on the yellow

Yellow is a tricky colour to deal with. The hue certainly can look great in the tin and on the swatch sample, but once it gets on the wall it can be a different story. This is because of the intense pigment contained in yellow paint and the way in which it reacts with the air as it dries.

Once dried, yellow paint tends to look a lot darker than the sample, so it is advised to experiment with a sample pot before you commit.

4. Using the wrong tools

Different surfaces call for different tools. For example, painting over rough or textured surfaces requires a thick nap roller to provide good coverage, while smooth wall surfaces must first be prepared with a tack cloth to remove dirt and other contaminants which could ruin your finish.

5. Forgetting to clear the way

Don’t forget to wash your walls before starting an interior painting job. This tip is designed to give your paint a clean and blemish free surface to take to, delivering a smooth and professional looking finish once the job is done.

6. Rushing the job

When following these tips, it is important to remember that interior decorating is not a quick job. After each stage is complete you need pause to give the paint the time it needs to dry fully. Interior paint coats can take up to 24 hours to dry, and sometimes a further 30 days to cure fully.

If you want to add a second coat or any additional treatment, wait until the paint has completely dried. Rushing the job and adding more coats or treatments before the initial layer has dried will result in a poor quality job and eventual disappointment.

7. Not factoring in light

Light plays a big part in the overall effect of an interior, so it is vital to factor this in during the interior painting process. This tip will help you do just that. By applying a sample of your chosen paint to a piece of plasterboard and leaving it to dry, you can experiment with different light conditions.

This will give you a clue as to what the paint will look like when it is finally on your wall, helping you make an informed decision.

For more great tips why not download our handy renovation guide to help you on your home improvement journey.