PAINTING Newcastle

15 ESSENTIAL PAINTING MISTAKES TO AVOID

Jan 13, 2021

What's the difference between DIY and professionals?

Preparing materials for painting a wall

If you ask the professionals at Painting Sydney, they will tell you the biggest difference between DIY and professional projects is lack of proper preparation.


DIY home painters want to jump straight into their project, because they’re excited to see the new colour on their walls — it’s a normal emotional reaction. 

But it’s important to understand that professional painters spend most of their time on preparation. 

Before you do anything else make sure you’ve properly cleaned walls , scraped off peels and cracks, applied painter’s tape carefully, and allowed any filler compound to dry before you start.


​For the smoothest finish always start near the ceiling and work your way down. This will help can catch drips as you work.


“You can have the best paint in the world but if you go cheap on your brushes and rollers the result will generally be poor.” the pros will tell you. Good brushes and roller covers will give you better coverage and save paint in the long run — plus if you take care of them, good quality brushes will last for years.


They are definitely worth the extra cost.

Rolling a wall with paint

​Professionals, like the ones at Painters Sydney, spend the money for high-quality tape, and you should, too. Use a putty knife or mini scraper, not your finger, to remove air bubbles and seal the edges to prevent drips and ensure sharp lines.


​Primer covers imperfections in the surface and gives you a smooth, long-lasting finish. It’s ok to use ‘paint and primer in one’ mixes if the surface was previously painted, is in good shape, and has a flat (non-glossy) finish. However, if you’re painting over a more difficult surface like plaster, wood, concrete, glossy paint, or stained/porous drywall, use a separate primer or top quality ‘all-in-one’ mix specifically designed to cover unpainted surfaces.

Rough Painting Job at Painters Newcastle

​Washable satins or semi-glosses are the best choice for places like closets and laundry rooms.


You could also use a durable premium matte finish if you prefer that look.

new paint in the laundry


New paint needs some texture to adhere to, so make sure to lightly roughen any shiny surfaces with sandpaper.


Then rinse the surface with clean water.



Tins of paint ready for a wall

Put it only a third of the way in — you’ll get enough paint on your brush without wasting or pushing the paint deep into the bristles, which is difficult to clean.


​You can paint over wallpaper, but make sure you use oil-based primer first. Water-based paints and primers can reactivate the wallpaper glue and cause unsightly peeling.


​The job is finished and you’re tired, so you put the brushes in the garage and decide to deal with them later — bad idea!

Protect your investment by washing your brushes thoroughly in water using dish-washing detergent.


Then wrap them in airtight plastic wrap or aluminium foil then store them in their original packaging so they hold their shape. 

Cleaning paint brushes

Remember, if you don't want to do any of this yourself, contact us at Painting Sydney for all your House Painting and Commercial Painting needs.


​We have the best
painters in Sydney and the Blue Mountains.

Dog using a computer
By Glenn Broadbent 15 May, 2022
Before you start, you’ll need to research which paint to use, buy all the right brushes, ladder, drop sheets and cleaning materials. Then there's the constant scrutiny of your spouse or partner. You'll need to consider how much is your time worth! In the end, that amazing home magazine photo which inspired you, looks very little like your end result. In the end your home will look better, and the job will be guaranteed.
Sydney painter in hallway painting the wall
12 May, 2021
In Sydney, Australia, the average cost to paint a house can vary widely. Many factors need to be considered including the design of the house, type of paint, interior design and raw materials. The cost of a painting project can range from $2,500 for a small house to $20,000 for a three bedroom home.
Plastering a wall at Painters Sydney
10 Mar, 2021
Throughout my career as a plasterer in Sydney I have been lucky to work with people who really knew what they were doing. I’ve been shown the right plastering tools to use, the correct ways to prepare a job, and more importantly, I’ve been shown how to put the plaster onto the wall!
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