Just moved into a new house and don’t think the color of the walls match your furniture? Or are you just tired of looking at the same color in your living room that you’ve had for the past year? Time to bust out those paint rollers and dress in your oldest clothes to get this job done. But maybe money is a little tight right now, as the holidays are literally just around the corner. So here are 6 ways to get those walls painted without breaking the already broke bank:

 

1. Check Local Recycling Centers

 

Most recycling and hazardous waste centers accept old and unused paint cans from residents and businesses. Everyone knows that paint has a very long shelf life, so it’s common to find paint at these centers. Best of all, it’s free

 

2. Illuminate the Walls

 

Make sure to have plenty of sunlight or bring out your own lamps to shine on the walls so that you don’t miss any spots on the walls. It is always the worst to finish the job, clean up everything, only to learn a week later that you missed a few spots.

 

3. Use a Primer

 

Everyone should know to always use a primer before starting. Ladies know before painting their nails that they need to apply a base coat before painting on the actual color to save the nail. The same applies for walls. The primer will help the paint adhere to untreated surfaces, such as raw wood or unfinished drywall. Also helps if you’re dealing with either stained or rough surfaces that could need more than one coat.

 

4. Buy the Expensive Brand

 

Cheaper isn’t always better when it applies to paint. Cheap paint won’t shine as bright, look as smooth, and could always require more coats to achieve a finished look, which will add up that cost. Most high-quality paints, many which already include a primer in the mixture, can go on in one coat. These can cost more per can, but the job is complete with less paint and less time.

 

5. Don’t Rush for Color

 

It’s a known fact that there are some people will pick the first color they see to save time, while others will agonize over it for hours. Never rush on this. You will have to look at this color for a while, so it is always good to take your time, even collect some samples and see which would look best. Rushing into a color could result in having to repaint everything after it’s all finished because the mustard yellow you picked out, doesn’t exactly go with Grandma’s couch.

 

6. Read Up on Finishes

 

It is always a must to know about the 4 kinds of finishes you can use. These 4 are:

-        Flat: This finish is perfect for interior walls and ceilings.

-        Eggshell: This finish is great for living rooms, bedrooms, as well as dining rooms as its easy to wash and touch up.

-        Satin: This finish is insanely easy to clean, which makes it perfect for any high traffic areas in the house.

-        Semi-Gloss/Gloss: This finish should be mainly used for the trim, cabinets, kitchens, and bathrooms as it gives great coverage and its highly washable.

 

Following these tips can definitely help you save time, money, and any headaches along the way so that you can get that beautiful living room you have always wanted. Or any room for that matter.