How to turn a dark wall into a light one with paint?

As time passes, our tastes in colours evolve. Just a few years ago, dark green seemed like the perfect choice for both the kitchen and the living room. However, after some time, we often come to realize that we need a brighter shade to bring more life and energy to the space, as well as to create the illusion of a larger room. So, how do we approach this transition, and how can we prepare to achieve the result we envision? Here are some practical tips for transforming a dark wall into a lighter one and preparing for a successful painting project.

Evaluate the Current Condition

Before you grab your paint roller, take a step back and assess the state of the wall. If it has been a while since you last painted, you may notice a layer of dust or grime. In this case, the first step should be to clean the walls. You don’t need specialized tools—just some dishwashing detergent or a pre-paint cleaner (which typically costs around £5), along with a sponge to scrub off any dirt.

Dealing with Damaged Walls

If the walls are in poor condition, with peeling or flaking paint, you’ll need to remove the old layer of dark paint. This is a time-consuming task that requires careful attention, as the final result depends on how well you scrape away the old paint. If this sounds like too much work, you might want to consider hiring a professional. Services like those offered by Painteradam.ie connect you with skilled painters who can handle the job at a reasonable price, ensuring a top-quality finish.

Priming and Repairing Damages

Once your walls are clean and smooth, it’s time to consider priming. Applying a primer will enhance the adhesion of the new paint and create a more even surface. If there are any cracks or holes, you’ll need to fill them in with a wall filler. Filling and smoothing the surface may not be particularly challenging, but if you’re not confident in your ability to do it neatly, it could be worth hiring an expert. Before you begin, make sure to have the right tools: a quality putty knife, sandpaper (unless you have a sander), and a stainless steel trowel for applying the filler.

Time to Paint!

Once the preparation work is done, you can begin the painting process. When selecting your paint, it’s worth considering a higher-quality option. A premium paint will be easier to apply, reduce the risk of drips, and save you time. Keep in mind that even with high-quality paint, dark colours often require multiple coats. Don’t be surprised if you need to apply two or even three layers to fully cover the dark shade.

Final Thoughts

We hope these tips help you brighten up your home and achieve the look you’ve been dreaming of. However, if you find the process overwhelming or prefer to save time while ensuring a professional finish, hiring experienced painters is always a great option. You can even check the cost of such services using an online calculator for a quick estimate.