When it comes to painting the interior of your home, many homeowners have questions. Whether you’re tackling a DIY project or hiring a professional, understanding the basics can help ensure the job goes smoothly. There are some common questions about interior paint that we at L.W. Winslow Painting, Inc. would like to share their answers.

1) How Do I Choose the Right Paint Color?

Choosing the right color for your interior can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. Start by considering the mood you want to create in each room. Lighter colors tend to make a room feel larger and more open, while darker hues can add coziness and drama. Don’t forget to factor in the room’s natural light, as this can influence how a color looks on the walls. Sample paints on a small section of your wall and observe how they change throughout the day before making a final decision.

2) What’s the Difference Between Matte, Eggshell, Satin & Gloss Finishes?

Paint finishes vary in both appearance and durability. Here’s a quick rundown:

• Matte (Flat): Offers a smooth, non-reflective finish and is perfect for hiding imperfections on walls. However, it’s less durable and harder to clean.
• Eggshell: Slightly glossy, eggshell finish is more durable than matte and works well in living rooms and bedrooms. It’s easy to clean and maintains a soft sheen.
• Satin: Offers a noticeable sheen and is ideal for high-traffic areas like kitchens and hallways. It’s easy to clean and durable, making it perfect for families.
• Gloss: Has the highest shine and is often used for trim, doors, or cabinets. It’s the easiest to clean but tends to highlight imperfections.

3) Should I Use Primer Before Painting?

Yes, using a primer is highly recommended, especially if you are painting over a dark color, a surface with stains, or a high-traffic area. Primer helps create a smooth base for the paint, ensuring better adhesion and color consistency. It also increases the longevity of the paint job, providing extra durability.

4) How Much Paint Do I Need for a Room?

The amount of paint you need depends on the size of the room and the surface area to be covered. Typically, one gallon of paint covers around 350 square feet. To estimate how much paint you’ll need, measure the square footage of the walls in the room and subtract the area of windows and doors. If you’re painting over a bold or dark color, you may need an additional coat or two.

5) Can I Paint Over Old Paint without Sanding?

In most cases, yes. However, sanding the surface lightly can provide better adhesion for the new paint, especially if the old paint is glossy. If the surface is smooth, clean, and the paint is still in good condition, you can skip sanding, but a coat of primer may still be needed to ensure proper bonding.

6) How Long Does it Take for Paint to Dry?

Drying times can vary depending on the type of paint and the environment. Generally, latex paint dries to the touch in about 1 hour, but it’s best to wait 4 hours before applying a second coat. Oil-based paints take longer to dry—typically 6–8 hours before recoating. Ensure good ventilation in the room to speed up drying times.

7) How Do I Maintain My Painted Walls?

To keep your walls looking fresh, clean them regularly with a soft cloth or sponge and mild soap solution. For stains, try using a gentle cleaner, and for more stubborn marks, use a non-abrasive cleaner that won’t damage the finish. For high-traffic areas, touch-ups can help keep your walls looking new between full repaints.

8) How Often Should I Repaint the Interior of My Home?

The frequency of repainting depends on the type of room and the amount of wear and tear it experiences. High-traffic areas like hallways or kitchens may need repainting every 3-5 years, while bedrooms or living rooms can last 5-7 years before needing a touch-up. The quality of the paint used and the room’s exposure to sunlight can also impact how often you’ll need to repaint.

Interior & Exterior Painting & More in Amagansett, Bridgehampton, East Hampton, Hampton Bays, Montauk, North Haven, North Sea, Noyack, Shelter Island, Sag Harbor, Shinnecock Hills, Southampton, Springs, Water Mill, Westhampton & Westhampton Beach, New York

By understanding these common questions about interior paint, you can make informed decisions and achieve the best results for your home. Whether you’re painting yourself or hiring a professional, proper preparation and choosing the right materials will ensure a long-lasting, beautiful finish.  Call L.W. Winslow Painting, Inc. for your interior painting projects.