How to Paint a Room Perfectly (Professional Results)
80% of a great paint job is preparation. Here is the professional approach.
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Written by Mike Thompson
Licensed General Contractor · 20 years experience
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In this article
1. Preparation Is Everything2. Choosing the Right Paint3. The Cutting-In Technique4. Rolling TechniquePreparation Is Everything
Remove furniture, cover with drop cloths. Remove outlet covers. Fill holes. Clean walls. Apply painter tape. Good prep is 80% of the job.
Choosing the Right Paint
Flat for ceilings. Eggshell for bedrooms and living rooms. Satin for kitchens and bathrooms. Semi-gloss for trim.
The Cutting-In Technique
Use a 2.5-inch angled brush along edges. Work in 3–4 foot sections, then immediately roll the adjacent area while the edge is still wet.
Rolling Technique
Roll in a W pattern to distribute paint, then smooth with even vertical strokes. Two thin coats always look better than one thick coat.
Pro Tips
✓One gallon covers approximately 350–400 square feet
✓Paint in order: ceiling first, walls second, trim last
✓Remove painter tape while the final coat is still slightly tacky
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