Giving your home a much needed change is often easily and affordably accomplished with a simple paint job. But when the walls are originally painted a dark color it can be tricky to go a lighter color. Don’t worry about the challenge, L.W. Winslow Painting, Inc has your back! We have put together some tips and advice so you know exactly what to expect.

What You Will Need to Paint Over a Dark Color Wall

– 2” Tapered Paint Brush
– Broom
– Caulking Gun
– Degreaser
– Drop Cloth
– Fine Grit Sanding Block
– Microfiber cloths
– Sponge
– Paint Pan
– Paint Scraper
– Painting Tape
– Rollers
– Roller Handle
– Spackling
– Tinted-Stain Block Primer
– Waterproof Painter’s Caulk
– Your Paint of Choice

Advice for How to Paint Over a Dark Color Wall

A) Don’t be afraid to put your money into a high quality primer and paint to reduce the number of coats needed for superb coverage.
B) Know that investing in an oil based primer and shellac primer are far more sufficient at covering up the dark colors.
C) Don’t neglect your painting tape to place over ceiling seams, baseboards, door trim, window trim, hardware and everything you do not want compromised by paint.
D) With the use of your trusty top safety ladder, trim out the top of the wall approximately 2” down, use the paint brush to cut out 2” from baseboards and window and door trim.
E) Use a roller extension to minimize the use of being on a ladder for safety as much as possible.
F) Primer and paint will emit heavy and pungent fumes. To help reduce the effects, open windows and flip on a ventilation fan if one is available. Allow yourself as much ventilation as possible while painting and priming.

Tips for Interior Painting

1. To begin your project, make certain you have enough primer and paint to cover the intended walls. For those who are unsure on how to get total square footage, simply multiple the length measurement by the width measurement. Make sure you have gathered together all of your equipment and have supplies ready to go.
2. Go around the room and remove the shelves, pictures and other decorative wall décor, as well as all the nails and screws. Also, remove the outlet covers and light switch plates.
3. Before you commence the priming and painting application, sweep away all the dust, cob webs and debris off all the walls. If walls are riddled with blemishes, spray degreaser onto the walls and wash them well. Allow the walls to dry completely before continuing on with your project.
4. While you are waiting for the walls to dry from their washing, push out all the furniture to the center of the room. If you are able, move some of the lighter pieces into other rooms so you have more space to work. For extra protection, cover the furniture with old sheets or plastic protectors. Place your drop cloths down and and set up a paint station on one of the cloths.
5. Scrape away the loose and flaky paint with your paint scraper. Next, spackle any holes or cracks found along the walls. Once dried, use you sanding block to smooth out the spackle, and any areas where the old paint needed to be removed. The smother the wall, the better the finished products will be. Wipe away all the dust left behind from sanding with a microfiber cloth.
6. If you favor the seamless look to your walls, use the painter’s caulk along the seams. Bead on about two feet of caulk and smooth with your finger, wipe away the excess before moving on. Continue across the room in the same manner, and allow the caulk to dry completely.
7. Tape up the areas that need protection from paint.
8. According to the label apply your coat of primer and follow directions.
9. After primer is complete, paint your walls. Be sure to paint additional coats if needed for adequate coverage depending on the quality of primer and paint.

Interior & Exterior Painting & More in Amagansett, East Hampton, Southampton, Wainscott, Bridgehampton, Montauk, Sag Harbor, Shelter Island, Watermill, Westhampton & The Hamptons New York

For maximum quality painting quality, contact L.W. Winslow Painting, Inc. We have experts with the training and experience ready to perform your interior or exterior painting project!