Sure, there are valid reasons for being discouraged to tackle a paint project in winter. You don't want to be painting outdoors in wet weather because the paint will streak if exposed to rain. For indoor projects you may be concerned that lower temperatures will mean your project won't dry. But it’s ok; you can still work on indoor paint projects even during cold and wet weather and as long as it’s between 10 and 30 degrees Celsius and you have adequate air circulation, it will dry just fine. To speed up drying times you can increase air circulation by: opening doors and windows (as long as the rain doesn't come in), using fans or in extreme cases using blow heaters. These can hired from some equipment hire stores.
If you are going to tackle a project this winter, check out these handy tips on; colour selection, surface preparation and paint application to make the job easy.
Colour Selection
For some, choosing colour is easy, however for others it can be a daunting task. To make colour selection easier start by looking through home magazines and online photo galleries to get a feel for the look you like. You might even find our online colour selection guide useful.
It’s important to note that just because you like a particular colour scheme many factors such as; aspect, lighting and the architectural style of your home will impact your colour selection.
Get an initial idea of which colours look best in your home using paint colour chips held up against the walls, floors and soft furnishings. To get a really good indication of how your chosen colours will look, experiment with sample pots by painting large pieces of cardboard (instead of your walls) in your chosen colours and placing them on different walls in the room.
If you’re still struggling with colour then consider having a qualified colour consultant come to your home, where they’ll work with you to develop the perfect colour scheme. Check out colour consultancy service for more information.
Let’s not forget about paint type – different rooms and settings have different requirements. Make sure you pick the right one for your needs, with the adequate sheen level and finish type. But there are more things to consider; perhaps you’ll be just fine with a can of spray paint for a few touch-ups here and there, or, perhaps, you need something more specialised, like waterproof paint.
Preparation
In order to keep the job stress free its important to prepare the space to protect furniture and prepare the surface to ensure you achieve a perfectly smooth finish:
1.Clear the space: move your furniture to the middle of the room and cover with drop sheets
2.Cover your floors: old linen may be too thin, opt for plastic or canvas drop sheets
3.Clean surfaces: wash down all walls, ceilings and trims with sugar soap and water
4. Protect fittings: use blue painter's or masking tape (which removes easily) around light fittings, cupboards or any areas where you don’t want to get paint.
For more information on preparation, check out our surface preperation guide.
Paint Application
Once you have prepared the surface it’s time to paint! While some are experienced painters others may not know where to begin. Below are some hints and tips to get you started.
Where to Start?
Think from the top down when it comes to painting. This way you can paint over any drips and you won’t scuff painted walls with your ladder. Begin with ceilings before moving onto the walls. Then paint the trims and then windows and doors before finally painting the skirting boards.
Brush vs Roller
A paint roller saves time and gives a smoother finish for broad walls, however always cut-in with a brush around trims, corners and edges. Be sure to roll the main walls soon afterward cutting-in to avoid ‘picture framing’, where the cut-in areas remain visible as an ugly boarder around the wall.
How to use a Roller
Starting at the top of the wall paint in angled strokes like the letter ‘W’ so that you achieve an even coverage without lines. Be sure to overlap the wet edge of the previously completed area. When taking a break, wrap your roller in glad wrap so that it doesn’t dry out between coats.
How Much Paint Will I Need?
Most interior broadwall paints will cover at a rate of 16m² per litre, which is 8m² for two coats. To work out how much paint you’ll need, simply measure the height and width of each wall then use our online paint calculator to determine the quantity of paint required, it also gives an approximate cost.
Remember if painting in cold weather ensure there’s a good breeze to allow the paint to properly dry. The good news is you can still achieve a great makeover this winter.