Mistake 1: Skipping Proper Surface Preparation

Painting directly over dust, grease, cracks, or peeling paint is one of the biggest reasons walls start bubbling or flaking soon after the job is done. Good preparation includes cleaning, scraping loose paint, filling cracks, and sanding to create a smooth, even surface before you start painting.

– Wash walls to remove dust, cobwebs, and kitchen grease, then allow them to dry fully.

– Fill cracks and holes with putty and sand them smooth so the new paint looks uniform.

Mistake 2: Painting Without Primer

Many homeowners skip primer to save time or money and end up with patchy, uneven colour and poor adhesion. Primer helps the paint grip better, hides stains, and ensures that repaired areas or new plaster do not show through the top coat.

– Always use primer on new plaster, repaired walls, stained areas, or when changing from a dark colour to a light one.

– Choose a primer that matches your surface (interior/exterior) and paint type (water‑based or solvent‑based).

Mistake 3: Using the Wrong Paint and Tools

The wrong paint finish or cheap tools can lead to streaks, visible lines, and faster fading, even if your colour choice is perfect. Using interior paint on exterior walls or flat paint in high‑traffic areas makes the surface harder to maintain and clean.

– Select exterior‑grade paints for outside walls and moisture‑resistant paints for kitchens and bathrooms.

– Invest in quality rollers and brushes with the correct nap length for your wall texture to avoid marks and lint.

Mistake 4: Poor Painting Technique

Uneven pressure, random strokes, and over‑brushing can cause lap marks, roller lines, and dull patches on your walls. Applying paint too thickly leads to drips and sagging, while very thin coats can look patchy and require extra layers.

– Work in small sections, rolling in an “M” or “W” pattern and keeping a wet edge so each stroke blends smoothly into the previous one.

– Load the roller or brush moderately and maintain even pressure instead of pressing hard against the wall.

Mistake 5: Not Protecting Surroundings or Respecting Drying

Time Skipping masking tape, drop cloths, and proper drying time can leave you with messy edges, stained floors, and soft paint that peels easily. Applying a second coat before the first has dried completely can trap moisture and weaken the paint film.

– Cover floors, furniture, and fixtures, and use painter’s tape to get sharp, clean lines around doors, windows, and skirting boards.

– Follow the manufacturer’s recommended drying time between coats so the paint cures properly and lasts longer.