4 Things to Consider Before Painting Anything Yourself

Thinking about tackling a do-it-yourself paint project at home now that you have a lot of time on your hands? Wilmot’s Decorating Centers suggests considering four areas before you pop open a can of paint and make a big mistake.

Whether you are about to take on a kitchen-cabinet makeover or just update some backyard picnic tables, Wilmot’s Decorating Centers finds that asking these four questions before your start will help make your do-it-yourself paint job perfect.

1) What is the surface? There are a number of surfaces you can paint around your house, including interior woods like moldings and cabinets, interior walls like drywall or plaster, exterior woods like siding, trim, outdoor furniture and decks, or composite surfaces like Azek or Trex. Make sure you're getting the right products for the job — rushing past this and using the wrong kind of paint could leave it peeling off quickly.

2) What is the condition of the item you're painting? Are knots showing through the previous coating? Water stains? Mildew or fungi growing on the surface? How about the integrity of the substrate — is there rot or insect damage? You might need to do some minor repairs before you start painting, or ensure you buy paint that has superior coverage.

3) What do I need to do to prep the surface? Before painting any surface it should be free from dirt, grease, rust, dust and loose flakes of old paint. Scrape or sand with the appropriate tools and the clean to create a surface that is ready to receive the coating. A damp towel might do the trick, or you might want to purchase a stronger cleaner designed to attack grease or mold and mildew.

4) What is the goal? Do you want to update the look of your kitchen by redoing just the cabinets. Do you want to add a pop of color to an outdoor space? Do you want to give a dark room to have a fresh, light, and airy look? Having a defined goal will help you decide what color or finish you should select for your project to achieve the look you are going for.

When you’re ready to take on your do-it-yourself paint project, Wilmot’s Decorating Centers in New Bedford and Middleboro are ready to help you every step of the way.

Wilmot’s Decorating team provides free consultation on your projects, including helping you pick the right Benjamin Moore paint for your interior and exterior projects and selecting wall coverings, window treatments, and luxury vinyl and carpeting. And, of course, if you have any trouble answering any of the questions above, they can help you work through that, too.

To get started, visit wilmotsdecorating.com or facebook.com/WilmotsNewBedford or call 508-985-0042 (New Bedford) or 508-947-3370 (Middleboro). Wilmot's also offers curbside pickup and free home delivery.