A fresh coat of paint is one of the most affordable and effective ways to update a home. Whether you are repainting the whole house or just freshening up one room, it is a project many people tackle themselves.

While it is possible to get a great result without professional help, no DIY paint job will reach its potential without the right preparation. Here, the experts share their advice.

Should You DIY or Hire a Professional?

David Anderson of Master Painters and Decorators Australia says there is a lot of preparation to complete before any colour goes on the walls.

“Be aware that while going DIY can save you money, professional painters and decorators undertake significant training, and some may specialise in certain application methods and finishes, so sometimes it can pay to spend a bit more and get an expert in,” he says.

If hiring a professional is not in the budget, research, careful assessment of the surfaces and plenty of patience can still deliver a good result.

1. Assess and Repair the Surface

The first priority is to check the condition of the surface to be painted. Repair any damage so the surface is smooth, and deal with any peeling or flaking areas.

“Preparation is the most important part of the process, because it forms the foundation for the paint,” says David. “It is just like building a house – the foundation supports everything on top of it, so you need to get it right.”

2. Protect Everything Else

Perth painter Mick Houghton says the next most important step is protecting the areas you do not want painted.

Masking tape and drop sheets can feel like a time-consuming chore, but doing it properly saves time in the long run.

“There is nothing worse than finishing a job and stepping back to admire your handiwork, only to see spills, splashes and crooked lines,” Mick says. “Do the preparation in the first place and you will definitely reap the rewards.”

3. Apply an Undercoat – and Be Patient

Once the area is prepared and protected, apply an undercoat with a good-quality brush or roller. Leave it to dry for the full time recommended by the manufacturer.

“Do not be tempted to move on too soon,” says Mick. “An undercoat can feel dry to the touch before it is ready. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.”

4. Use the Right Tools

Using the correct brush or roller makes a big difference. Mick recommends going to the hardware store with as much information as possible about the surface you are painting.

“There are different rollers for different surfaces and different brushes for different jobs,” he says. “If you get the right tool, the job will be easier and the result will be better.”

5. Stir Well and Decant

Stir the paint thoroughly – for at least a few minutes – making sure you reach the bottom of the tin.

Pour some paint into a roller tray, or into a smaller container if you are using a brush, and keep the tin covered. This stops the remaining paint from forming a skin and reduces the risk of spills.

6. Apply Even Coats

“Do not be tempted to overload the brush or roller just to go faster,” says Mick. “Apply even coats. Too much paint will run and leave drip marks.”

Let the first coat dry completely, then apply a second coat – and a third if needed. Between coats, you can usually wrap brushes and rollers in cling wrap to stop them drying out.

7. Clean Up Properly

Looking after your equipment saves money on your next project.

“It can be tempting to throw rollers away or let brushes go hard, but there is no need if you take a little time to rinse them thoroughly and let them dry,” says Mick. “Hang brushes and rollers to dry if you can. Otherwise, lay them out on an old towel.”

When the paint is completely dry, remove the masking tape slowly. “Pulling it off too fast can chip your newly painted surface,” he says.

Choosing the Right Colour

With so many paint colours to choose from, deciding on the right one can be the hardest part. If you need help building a colour scheme you love, Home Base Design & Build Centre’s Colour Confidence Masterclass covers how to choose and combine colours with confidence.

Explore more at Home Base Design & Build Centre

Plan your visit: Browse the displays in Interior Design, Home Design & Advisory Services.

Learn more: Find out about the Colour Confidence Masterclass.