How to paint like a pro: a step-by-step guide

A step-by-step guide

Over time, the elements can wear your house down, and with enough years, it may look old and dull. However, this can be easily fixed with some paint, a few paintbrushes, and a few hours.

But before you dive into things, first pick up a few pro tips from us. Without the right tools and techniques, a paint job can quickly disappoint. We’ll show you how to paint your home like a pro so the results look fantastic and last a long time too.

Here are easy-to-follow steps that anyone can use!

Step 1: Prepare the surface thoroughly

Before you start painting, you need to start with a clean and smooth surface. It’s common to have salt residue and mildew on home exteriors here, so wash these things off carefully with a mild soap and water solution (or you can use a diluted bleach mix of 1 part bleach to 3 parts water).

Whatever you choose, scrub away the salt, mildew, and dirt. Rise thoroughly, then let the surface dry completely.

Then, remove any loose, flaking, or bubbling paint. You should also fill any cracks or holes with spackling paste or filler. This may leave the surface with rough and uneven spots, so sand it flush (if you’ve made repairs, then wait until those are dry first).

Step 2: Tape and protect the edges

For DIY painting, you always want to tape and protect edges, as this results in clean and beautiful lines!

So place high-quality painter’s tape around:

Trim
Windows
Doors

In addition, cover the floors and furniture with drop cloths or plastic sheets. This will prevent drips from ruining your home.

Step 3: Choose the right tools

How do you paint like a pro? The key lies in your tools.

Obviously, you’ll need brushes, but there are various ones available. For example, angled brushes are great for cutting in around edges. And synthetic bristles are optimal for water-based paints, which are commonly used in humid climates.

If you’re working on interior walls, then a medium-nap roller (3/8”-1/2") should work for most. But if you have textured exterior surfaces (like stucco), opt for a thicker nap instead.

Last is the most important part: the paint. Always select ones that are rated for tropical or coastal conditions. You’ll want acrylic paints for exterior surfaces since they’re durable against sun and salt air, while you’ll want mildew-resistant interior paints for indoors.

Step 4: Apply a primer

When you use a primer, this ensures that the paint adheres, and the results will come out smoother. Not to mention, you’ll get a longer-lasting finish too, so it’s worth doing this step. After all, you don’t want your hard work to peel soon after!

For humid interiors, use a mildew-resistant primer. Otherwise, for exteriors, use a masonry primer to help seal the surface and prevent peeling.

Are you making a drastic color change while house painting? Then use a tinted primer. This can reduce the number of top coats needed.

Step 5: Start painting

First, you’ll start by cutting in with an angled brush. Using a steady hand, paint around the edges and corners before rolling, as this will get you cleaner lines.

When you’re done cutting in, roll in sections that are 3’x3’, using a W or M pattern. Fill those in, and keep a wet edge to avoid lap marks.

You should apply at least two coats for durability, and this will help with even coverage too. Make sure you allow proper drying time in between coats though; if you paint over damp surfaces, this can cause bubbling and poor adhesion. Also, don’t overload your brush or roller, as this can result in drips and uneven coats.

For the exterior of your house, although the high humidity may make it tempting to paint in the direct sun, you should avoid doing so. The best times to paint are in the early morning or late afternoon. These times are optimal since the paint won’t dry too quickly, which can cause peeling later.

Step 6: Do the finishing touches

To stop the paint from peeling, remove the painter’s tape before the paint fully dries. Do this at a 45-angle and remove it carefully.

Next, check the surface for drips or streaks. Lightly sand it, and touch it up if needed.

Lastly, let the final coat cure before exposing the surface to heavy use. This is especially important in humid environments.

Extra tips to consider

Are you working on your home’s exterior? Then consider lighter paint colors. These shades reflect sunlight more, and can help keep interiors cooler.

Once you’re done painting, store your paint and tools in a cool and dry place. This will prevent clumping and drying out in the heat.

In general, we’d recommend repainting your house exterior every 4 to 6 years since the salt air can be hard on finishes.

As you can see, if you have the right prep work, as well as the proper tools and techniques, you can get an amazing professional-quality paint job that lasts a long time. And you don’t even have to hire anyone to get these results either!

So are you ready to tackle your DIY paint project? Then take a look at our paints now to see what wonderful possibilities are available!