How to paint your house on a budget.
by B Skidmore
Painting can be expensive, especially if the house is large. The
best way to redecorate a house if you're on a budget is by one
section at a time. The first place to start is the exterior. It is
the most visible and probably the most dramatic when when making
changes. Repainting the exterior can also add tremendous value to
your house if you're thinking of reselling.
When funds are limited the thing to consider when choosing the
color for the exterior is whether to keep the existing color or not.
If you keep the existing color, a similar shade or go darker, this
is less expensive than going from a dark color to a lighter one. As
the number of coats applied are less there for saving time and
money.
There are four basic types of paint; flat, satin, semi gloss and
gloss. They all have their advantages and disadvantages.
Flat Paints have a non-reflective quality and have a matte
finish. This help to hide flaws and is best used on ceilings but is
hard to clean and not a good choice for walls.
Satin Finishes have a soft luster sheen similar to that of an
eggshell. A satin finish is more stain resistant, durable and has a
harder surface finish than a flat finish. This hard wearing paint
makes satin finish paint a great choice for walls, hallways,
stairways, family rooms and other living areas.
Semi gloss Paints are hard wearing and easier to clean than satin
finish paints. Semi gloss paints are most often used in kitchens and
bathrooms or on highly used surface areas. Semi gloss paint can also
be used on wood trims and cabinets.
Gloss Paint is harder, more durable and stain resistant. It is
easier to clean but is not that good at hiding flaws. Gloss is best
used in heavy traffic areas and is often used on trims.
When choosing which type of paint to use, take into account the
area. For example, don't use a Gloss finish if you have flaws to
hide or a flat finish on walls with heavy traffic as you will be
repainting again and wasting money.
Also be aware that dark colored paint usually fades after a few
years due to weather. The house will look older and deteriorated.
You can prevent this by using a lighter color that does not absorb
heat from the sun and encounter moisture problems. This also
lengthens the time between painting and will save you money. Dark
colors can also be more expensive to buy as paint shops often charge
more for darker tints.
You don't need to hire professionals to chose colors or to do the
job. A little research in magazines or asking people their opinions
can help choose color and setting aside a couple of weekends to do
the job will get it done in no time at all. Also a little advice
from your local paint shop on which type of paint, what tools to use
will help you on your way. Good Luck!
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