Paint can add dramatic appeal to home inexpensively

By Matt Bewley | The Daily Journal

Published Monday, April 9, 2007

One of the most dramatic yet least expensive projects homeowners can tackle is interior painting. according to a local paint store manager.

“A 12x14 room will take about $75 in paint,” Sherwin Williams store manager Dale Hexum said. “That’s three gallons of mid-range paint with enough to do the walls and ceiling.”

Supplies such as brushes, rollers, drop cloths, paint trays and tape could run an additional $25, he said.

Current trends

“The trend for the last couple years has been bolder colors,” he said. “People are getting away form the off-whites and neutrals, and using paint to decorate. Also, faux-finishing is not as popular as it used to be.”

Some homeowners now set the mood of an area with paint colors, as opposed to several pieces of art or fixtures. This allows for a simpler, less cluttered look, while maintaining ambiance.

Bolder colors are now being used to set the stage in dining rooms and areas where people entertain.

“We’re seeing a lot more deep reds than we used to,” Hexum said. “Camel colors and the deeper tans, even chocolate colors are gaining in popularity.”

Tricks of the Trade

Here are some hints to help make painting projects quick and simple:

• When picking your paint, remember you get what you pay for. Look for a good mid-priced product from an established manufacturer.

• Preparing your work area properly will have a big impact on the final look and cleanup. Invest the time it takes to properly tape, drape and otherwise protect wood trim, windows, floors, carpet and furniture. The rule of thumb for preparing any surface for paint is that it be clean and dry for better paint adhesion.

• Paint the ceiling first, this way, any drips or splashes that hit the walls won’t be ruining a fresh paint job. Also, your wall color will look its best under a bright, freshly painted ceiling.

• Use an “M” or criss-cross motion when first rolling paint onto the wall, then go back over the area with a straight up and down motion. This will help assure even coverage and minimize ridges in the paint.

• Roll as close to corners or edges as possible, but be careful not to bump the roller into the ceiling. Finish corners, edges and other tight or small spaces with a paintbrush. These final touches will assure a professional looking job.

• Clean up is easier if you contain the mess. Always fold tarps in over themselves before shaking outside. When removing masking tape from the edges of windows and carpet edges, always make sure the paint is dry first and peel the tape off slowly. Paint brushes will need to be cleaned immediately.

Once the project is done and the painting gear put away, take a fresh look at the room. If you find yourself suddenly inspired to rearrange the furniture, now is the time. You may find out how much difference a day really can make.