10 Industry-Wide Painting Myths: BUSTED

Every industry is full of myths and misconceptions, and house painting is no different. You’ve probably heard some whoppers, too, like how the paint reacts to cold weather or whether primer is really necessary.

Today, we’re taking 10 of the painting industry’s biggest myths and BUSTING them! Let’s get started!

1) You Can’t Paint In Cold Weather

Clearly, you don’t have to worry about cooler or damp weather with interior paint. Even if you leave the window open, it won’t get too cold for the paint to dry. In fact, a little bit of cool air will help your paint dry faster. And as for exterior paint, there is cold weather paint that you can use at temperatures down to -35 degrees. 

2) Primer Is Always Necessary

This may not be much of a painting myth, but it is a major misconception. Although not necessary in many settings, it’s best to use a primer in other cases. Even painting a second coat won’t do what a primer can. Primer helps to create a smooth as-silk surface for your paint, and it helps paint go on better, makes the colour stand out better AND helps it last longer.

3) Paint Brands Don’t Matter

If you think you can get top-quality results with cheap, low-quality paint brands, think again. When it comes to interior and exterior house paint, the paint brand always matters. There’s definitely a reason the two top paint brands have been in that position since the beginning of the residential painting industry.

4) You Don’t Need To Clean Your Walls Before Painting

So many things can go wrong if you don’t clean your walls before painting them. Walls need to be cleaned because that dirt and dust will ruin how the paint applies, dries, and ultimately looks. Plus, it can discolourate lighter colours, making them look dingy. 

5) Your Ceiling Should Always Be White 

Ceilings don’t always have to be white. In fact, a big trend right now is alternative ceiling colours like blush, blue, and even something more vibrant like coral. This works best in a room with white walls, but it's not a hard and fast rule.

6) A Second Coat Is Always Necessary

If you prime the walls and apply your paint correctly, a second coat may not be necessary. However, it’s never a hindrance to lock it in with a final coat, especially if you have leftover paint after the first one.

7) Your Exterior & Interior Colours Shouldn’t Match 

It’s quite common for a home’s exterior and interior colour schemes to stand separately. But every designer will tell you that the entire home should have a common element to create one big theme.

8) Leftover Paint Lasts Forever

Leftover paint doesn’t last as long as you’d think. It might be handy for any scuffs or tiny mishaps over the next six months. But it won’t last (or keep its quality) for much longer after that.

9) Regular Repainting Isn’t Important 

Regular repainting is important for a few reasons, including (and perhaps most importantly) the overall aesthetic of your home. You certainly shouldn’t wait until the walls look like they’re falling apart.

10) You Don’t Need To Hire A Pro Painter 

You may not need a painter for a smaller project, like a single room or a touch-up. But it’s always best to leave bigger and more complex projects to the pros! Especially exterior projects, where safety is the biggest concern.

Trust Your Painting Project To The Experts

We’ll say it again: It’s ALWAYS best to leave your painting project to the pros! And there’s no one better than McHugh. Contact us today to get the ball rolling on your project!