How to Paint Your Home Like a Pro (Without Breaking the Bank)

Painting your home is one of the most affordable and effective ways to refresh its appearance. Whether you’re looking to add value before selling or want to brighten up your living space, a professional-looking paint job doesn’t have to come with a professional price tag. The cost of a painter can be steep.

With the proper preparation, tools, and techniques, you can achieve a flawless finish while keeping costs low.

Here’s how to paint your home like a pro without breaking the bank.

1. Plan Your Project and Budget

Before you buy a single can of paint, take the time to plan. Consider the size of the area you want to paint, the colours you prefer, and the finish you want. Calculate how much paint you’ll need by checking the coverage details on the paint tin. Duram has a helpful calculator that you can use to work out how much paint you will need.

Most South African paint brands, such as Plascon and Dulux, offer coverage estimates (e.g., 8-12m² per litre). Planning helps you avoid over-purchasing or making last-minute, costly trips to the hardware store.

2. Choose the Right Paint and Tools

Quality paint will save you money in the long run because it requires fewer coats and lasts longer. While premium paints may seem pricey upfront, their durability and better coverage often make them more cost-effective. 

Consider washable acrylic paints for interior walls, which are great for high-traffic areas. Opt for weather-resistant paints designed to withstand the harsh South African sun and rain for exteriors.

Did you know that painting a room a particular colour can enhance your mood?

Essential tools include:

• Good-quality paintbrushes and rollers
• Painter’s tape for clean edges
• Drop cloths or old sheets to protect floors and furniture
• A paint tray and extension pole for easier rolling
• Sandpaper and filler for prepping surfaces

Tip from Kandua: Visit your nearest Leroy Merlin which has an excellent range of paint supplies and equipment at great prices. 

3. Prepare Your Walls Properly

Proper surface preparation is key to achieving a smooth, professional finish. Start by cleaning your walls with sugar soap or a mild detergent to remove dust and grease. 

Fill any cracks or holes with wall filler and sand down rough spots. If you’re covering a dark colour or painting over a glossy surface, use a primer to ensure good adhesion and reduce the number of paint coats needed.

4. Use Smart Painting Techniques

Professional painters follow a specific process to achieve flawless results. Here’s how you can do the same:

Cutting In

Before using a roller, paint around edges and corners and trim with a small brush. This technique, called “cutting in,” helps create clean, sharp lines.

The W Method

Instead of rolling up and down in straight lines, use the “W” method. Start by rolling the paint onto the wall in a large “W” shape, then fill in the gaps without lifting the roller. This technique prevents streaks and ensures even coverage.

Two Thin Coats Are Better Than One

While it might be tempting to apply a thick coat to speed things up, this can lead to drips and uneven drying. Instead, apply two thin coats, allowing adequate drying time between each.

5. Save Money with DIY Hacks

Here are some cost-saving tips to help you stay within budget:

• Buy paint in bulk: Many hardware stores offer discounts for larger quantities.
• Use tester pots: Instead of committing to a large tin, buy tester pots to ensure you love the colour before purchasing litres of paint.
• Repurpose old sheets and newspapers: Instead of buying drop cloths, use old bedsheets or newspapers to protect your floors and furniture.
• Clean and store your brushes properly: Instead of replacing tools after each project, clean brushes and rollers thoroughly with water (water-based paints) or turpentine (oil-based paints) and store them for future use.

6. Don’t Skip the Finishing Touches

Once the walls are dry, carefully remove the painter’s tape and touch up any imperfections with a small brush. Clean up thoroughly, then step back to admire your professional-looking paint job!

Painting your home doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. With the proper preparation, tools, and techniques, you can achieve a high-end look at a fraction of the cost. Whether you are updating a single room or repainting the entire house, these DIY tips will help you get professional results while staying on budget. So grab your paintbrush, put on some old clothes, and transform your space today!