Colorado Springs Realty Blog

Whether you are looking to make your home more appealing to potential buyers when you put it up for sale, want a change of scenery because the stark white just is not in anymore, or have paint that has cracked, chipped, or faded, use the tips below to make your painting experience go a little more smoothly.

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Brush Basics - There are generally two brush options for you to choose from: natural bristle brushes and synthetic bristle brushes. The synthetic is best for latex paints, for oil-based paints you can use either natural or synthetic brushes.  There are also specialized brushes you can use depending on what type of look you are trying to achieve.  If you have a large area to paint, a roller may be more ideal.  To avoid hitting the ceiling, you may want to purchase an edger instead of using a brush. 

Don’t forget tape and plastic! - One of the best pieces of advice is to buy plenty of low tack and use it to tape off baseboards, moldings, and doorknobs. Take off outlet and switch plates as well.  This part of the painting process takes the longest but it will save you time on cleaning later.  Remember to remove the tape soon after painting otherwise; you may end up peeling the new paint off!  Cover the floor and furniture with plastic.  If you get paint on the floors clean it off immediately; paint can be removed off of tile and wood flooring more easily than carpet.

Patience, Patience, Patience - When applying multiple coats of paint, allow the walls to dry to the touch between applications. Premature brushing of the second coat can ruin the job by pulling up the first coat of paint.   

Storage and care- After you are finished painting, thoroughly rinse the paint brush with water.  If you are not finished painting, put the paintbrush in a plastic Ziploc bag and place it in the freezer until you are ready to use it again, no rinsing necessary!  Make sure and tightly close the paint cans so the paint does not dry out and store it in your basement or storage room.  Do not store the paint in your shed or garage in cold weather; the paint will go bad!

There are many painting techniques you can explore such as: faux painting, sponging, or ragging.  Just remember to have fun and be creative!

For further information on available Real Estate in Colorado Springs contact your Colorado Springs Realtor, Patricia Beck.