Giving your home a fresh coat of paint is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to transform your space. Whether you’re looking to enhance curb appeal, refresh a tired room, or prepare your house for sale, a new paint job can do wonders. But before diving into gallons of paint, it’s important to know how to choose the right colors, whether to DIY or hire a professional, and what kind of costs to expect.
Choosing the Right Colors
Color selection can make or break the look and feel of a space. When choosing colors for your home’s interior, think about the mood you want to create. Light neutrals like whites, creams, and greys make rooms feel larger and more open. These tones are great for living areas and kitchens. For bedrooms, softer hues like blues, sage greens, or muted lavenders offer a relaxing vibe.
Don’t forget to test your colors. What looks perfect on a paint chip can appear completely different on a full wall due to lighting and shadows. Buy small sample cans and paint swatches in different areas of the room before making a final decision.
For exteriors, consider the architectural style of your home, the colors of neighboring houses, and any HOA restrictions. A safe approach is to choose three coordinating shades: one for the main body, one for the trim, and a bold accent color for doors or shutters.
DIY Painting Tips
Painting yourself can be rewarding and save a lot of money. However, it does take time, patience, and preparation.
Here are some DIY tips to make the job easier:
- Prep is key: Clean surfaces, patch holes, and use painter’s tape to protect trim and ceilings.
- Invest in quality tools: Cheap brushes and rollers can lead to streaks and wasted paint.
- Use primer:Especially on new drywall or when drastically changing colors.
- Start with ceilings: Then move on to walls and finish with trim.
- Take your time: Rushing leads to drips, uneven coats, and cleanup headaches.
A small room may take a day or two, while a full home interior could take several weekends, depending on your schedule and skill level.
Hiring a Professional Painter
If the thought of climbing ladders or cutting in corners sounds daunting, hiring a professional might be the better route. Professional painters have the tools, training, and speed to get the job done efficiently and with excellent results.
When hiring:
- Get multiple estimates: Compare services, reviews, and timelines.
- Ask about prep work: Some painters include patching and sanding in their quote; others don’t.
- Review contracts: Make sure everything from the paint brand to cleanup is clearly listed.
How Much Does Painting Cost?
Painting costs can vary widely depending on whether it’s interior or exterior, DIY or professional, and the quality of paint you choose.
- Interior DIY: Expect to spend about $200–$300 per room on supplies and paint.
- Interior Professional: Prices range from $2 to $6 per square foot, or roughly $400–$1,000 per room.
- Exterior Painting: Professional exterior painting typically costs $1,500–$4,000 for an average-sized home, depending on condition and number of stories.
Get the Job Done Right
Painting your home is a powerful way to refresh your space without a full remodel. Take the time to choose the right colors and decide whether a DIY project or professional service best fits your needs and budget. Whether you’re adding a bold statement wall or freshening up your exterior, a little color can go a long way in making your house feel like home.
