Painting hacks that will save you money

Before you paint a wall, it is very important to prep the surface. This could save you an extra coat or two of paint, and will ensure your paint job lasts longer because your paint won’t peel or lift.

Previously painted walls: Sand down any bumps and clean with sugar soap. Sponge the sugar soap off the wall with water and leave to dry.

Newly plastered walls: must be thoroughly clean and in sound condition before painting. Make sure the plaster is dry before you start painting and sand any imperfections. For Concrete/cement plaster/Asbestos/Fibre Cement/Rhinolite-plastered walls, apply one coat of Build It Water-based Plaster Primer followed by the desired topcoat. The plaster primer is important as it helps seal the plaster and is alkaline resistant which will help your paint to stick to the wall and not peel off. Wait for the plaster primer to dry before you apply your topcoat.

Choose the right paint for the job.

Paint sheen refers to how shiny or matt paint looks when it's dry. There are five basic sheens:

Matt paint, also known as flat, is the standard for most walls as it has a velvety texture and the least amount of sheen. This hides imperfections well and the painted surface creates very little glare. However, walls with this finish can be difficult to wash.

Eggshell paint has a moderate amount of sheen so it hides imperfections and produces relatively little glare. This durable paint is also washable and is the best choice for walls in high-trafficked areas such as your living room or bathroom.

Satin paint is slightly glossier than eggshell. Some manufacturers offer satin in place of eggshell while others offer both.

Semi-gloss paint is used in kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and similar areas that need the excellent washability and the moisture-resistance of glossier paint.

Gloss paint is traditionally used on trim, doors, and cabinets because of its durability and easy-to-wash surface. Its high-gloss finish also reflects a lot of light, which makes small but detailed elements pop with colour.

Some parts of your home are subject to more wear and tear than others. Areas like kitchens and bathrooms need a more hard-wearing paint. Remember that glossier (shiny) paints are more hard-wearing and easier to clean. While matt paints are better at hiding imperfections, they are not as easy to clean or as hardwearing.

Make your paint go further:

Dip the brush into the paint to halfway up the bristles. Gently tap excess paint into the tin instead of wiping it on the side of the paint tin. That way you waste less paint.

Build it stocks a wide range of competitively priced quality paints. We can also mix to the colour of your choice.

For more information contact Gansbaai Build It.