How to Avoid the Most Common Mistakes When Painting Your Home

Skipping Surface Preparation

A lot of people get excited to dive right into painting and skip the prep work but that's usually where things go wrong. If the walls aren't clean and smooth to begin with the paint won't stick the way it should. Dust, grease or old flaky paint can cause the new coat to peel or look patchy. Spending just a bit of time wiping down the walls, sanding rough spots and putting on primer pays off in the end because the finish looks smoother, lasts longer and feels more professional.

For detailed guidance on this crucial step, check out our comprehensive guide on how to prepare your walls for Benjamin Moore paint. Paint stores like Crowfoot Paint and Design offer primers made for specific surfaces such as drywall, plaster, or wood, and choosing the right one is key to achieving a flawless finish.

Using the Wrong Tools

Using the right tools is just as important as preparing the surface. Poor-quality or inappropriate brushes and rollers can leave marks, shed bristles or create uneven textures. For example, a thick roller nap works best on textured walls while a thinner nap is ideal for smooth surfaces.

Paint stores like Crowfoot Paint and Design offer a wide variety of brushes and rollers designed for different paints and surfaces. Investing in quality tools helps ensure that paint goes on evenly and achieves a professional appearance. Our professional painting tips guide covers tool selection in detail.

Ignoring Primer

Primer is another step that should never be overlooked. Although skipping it may save time in the short term, primer creates a uniform surface for paint to adhere to and helps cover stains, dark colours or patched areas. Without it, multiple coats of paint may be needed to achieve proper coverage which increases both the time and cost of the project.

By preparing surfaces carefully, choosing the right tools and applying primer when needed you set the stage for a smooth long-lasting finish that looks polished and professional. Expert staff at paint stores like Crowfoot Paint and Design can recommend the best primer for your project whether you're working on drywall, metal or wood.

Choosing the Wrong Paint Finish

Not all paints are created equal and selecting the wrong finish is a mistake many homeowners regret. Flat finishes for example are excellent at hiding wall imperfections but they can be difficult to clean and may not hold up well in high-traffic areas.

On the other hand, glossy finishes are easy to wipe down but they tend to highlight every flaw on the surface. Semi-gloss or satin finishes often provide the best balance, offering durability and ease of cleaning while still looking attractive. Our detailed sheen guide explains how different finishes affect both appearance and performance.

This makes them ideal choices for kitchens, bathrooms and other frequently used spaces. Paint stores can provide detailed guidance on the different finishes available and help you choose one that matches both the function and style of each room in your home. For specific recommendations, explore our guide on sheen and colour working together.

Misjudging Colour Selection

Colours often appear very different under store lighting than they do in the natural light of your home and relying solely on paint swatches is a common mistake. A simple way to avoid this is to bring home sample pots and paint small test patches on your walls. Observe them at different times of day to see how the light affects the shade.

Many paint stores encourage this approach and offer free sample sizes so you can experiment without committing to a full can. Taking the time to test colours helps you make a confident choice and prevents the disappointment of painting an entire room only to find the colour doesn't work as expected. For colour inspiration, browse our featured Benjamin Moore paint lines to see what's available.

Applying Paint Too Quickly

Rushing through a painting project can create streaks, drips and uneven coverage turning an otherwise great effort into a frustrating result. Every coat needs enough time to dry before the next one is applied and skipping this step can lead to peeling or poor adhesion. Following the manufacturer's recommended drying times is essential for a smooth long-lasting finish.

While paint stores like Crowfoot Paint and Design offer quick-drying options for those on a tight schedule, taking the time to be patient usually makes the biggest difference in achieving professional-looking results. Before you start, use our paint calculator to ensure you have enough paint to complete the job without rushing.

Overlooking Safety Precautions

Although painting may seem harmless it comes with potential risks including exposure to fumes and working on ladders or step stools. Proper ventilation is especially important when using oil-based paints and using safety equipment like masks, goggles and gloves can help protect your health.

Many paint stores carry low-VOC and eco-friendly paints which reduce odours and make the project safer for families. Paying attention to these precautions not only keeps you safe but also makes the painting process more comfortable and enjoyable.

Neglecting Long-Term Maintenance

Finishing a painting project is only the first step. Proper maintenance keeps your walls looking fresh for years to come. A common mistake is using harsh cleaners that can damage the paint but usually mild soap and water are all that's needed for routine cleaning.

Storing leftover paint for touch-ups is another smart move and many paint stores will even label the cans with the colour code for easy reference. This makes it simple to match the original shade if you ever need to repaint a section in the future.

Achieve Professional Results Every Time

Painting your home doesn't have to be stressful or disappointing. By preparing surfaces, choosing the right tools and finishes, testing colours and following proper techniques, you can achieve results that look professional and last for years. With expert advice and quality products from trusted paint stores, your project will be easier and more enjoyable.

At Crowfoot Paint and Design we're proud to help homeowners avoid common mistakes and create beautiful lasting finishes in their homes. Whether you need help selecting the perfect paint for interior doors and trim or choosing kitchen cabinet colors, our experts are here to help.



Ready to start your next project? Visit our store to find everything you need, check out our current promotions for savings on premium products, or visit our Calgary location to speak with our paint experts in person.